Richard Lay Obituary

Lay

Richard "Dick" Alan

Lay

October 7, 1939

April 6, 2021



Richard Alan Lay passed away peacefully at home. Born in Berlin, Wisconsin, his family suspects his death was spurred on by Key Lime Pie withdrawals.



Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara (Lomas) Lay; their five children, Kate Buffetti, Carl Lay, Richard Lay II, Megan Whitaker and Michael Lay; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Charles and Theresa Lay and son-in-law Vincent Buffetti.



Dick leaves behind a lot of stuff that they have no idea what to do with. A full wildland firefighting gear setup. A come-along that could lift the Titanic. A collection of plaid sports coats. Hundreds of tools, both intricate and others worthy of any demolition connoisseur. Many for undefinable purposes, and duplicates to boot.



Dick loved to build things that would endure the test of time. He retired after 62 years from Lay Furs, the family business that his father started. He was instrumental in bringing the University of Colorado campus to Colorado Springs



Dick's interests were diverse. Dick scared a lot of people four-wheel driving. He wrecked a Pikes Peak Hill Climb car days before the race. He was an avid dirt bike rider, reader and history buff. He loved fishing, playing hockey, hunting, shooting and boating. He was a master diver. He earned a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do.



He was a lifetime member of Elks Lodge #309 in Colorado Springs for over 60 years. He was also a Jaycee, and an El Paso County reserve deputy.



In business, his style was immaculate, although he took fashion cues from no one. In retirement, he dressed more creatively. Dick meets his maker wearing a Hawaiian shirt he brought home from a cruise to Jamaica, Jack Daniels pants and orange socks. He enjoyed making people smile, and we are confident all at the Pearly Gates will be grinning as he shows up.



There will be a celebration of life in Colorado Springs for family and friends over the Father's Day weekend.



Hey Buana!!!!!