Richard Dillon Casey Jr.

Richard “Dick” Dillon Casey Jr., 77, of Clear Lake, passed away on Monday, October 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at Oakwood Care Center.

A memorial Mass was held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church of Epiphany Parish, Mason City, with Rev. Ben Valentine officiating. Memorial visitation was scheduled for Tuesday, October 22, from 5-7 p.m. at Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, Clear Lake.

In a special tribute to Dick, attendees were invited to wear their “Fighting Irish” Notre Dame attire, reflecting his passion for the team. Memorials may be directed in care of Bobbie Casey to honor Dick’s memory, supporting organizations and schools close to his heart.

Dick was born on January 2, 1947, in Mason City, to Richard Sr. and Marion (Vodicka) Casey. He graduated from Newman Catholic High School in 1965, continued his education at the University of Notre Dame, graduating in 1969, and later earned his law degree from Drake University. Dick spent some time working in Minneapolis for a publishing company before returning to Clear Lake, where he worked as an independent insurance agent for many years.

Dick married Bobbie Sprague on November 30, 1985, after meeting on a blind date. They were blessed with their daughter, Meg, in 1991. Family was central to Dick’s life, and he cherished time spent with his siblings, cousins and friends. His love of sports, particularly for Notre Dame football, led to an annual family trip to a game. Dick also enjoyed sailing on the lake and was deeply involved in his community, including being a member of the Clear Lake Evening Lions, St. Joseph Catholic Church, a past Chamber President in 1985, past President of Clear Lake Preservation and a Commodore at the Yacht Club in 1985. Dick coached youth sports in the community. He served on the Clear Lake Park & Rec. board, he also found joy serving as Santa Claus for numerous years during the holiday festivals in Clear Lake.

Dick’s greatest joy was being able to hold the new title as Grandpa to his sweet grandsons, Connor and Channing.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Bobbie; his daughter, Meg, and her husband Drew Payne; his grandsons, Connor and Channing Payne, all of Clear Lake; siblings, Sue (Dick) D’Amico of Calif., Bill (Carol) Casey of Iowa City, and Mary Frances Casey (Sal Doucette) of Calif.; brother-in-law, Bruce (Rose) Sprague of Melrose; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Sr. and Marion, and his sister, Elizabeth Casey.

Ward Van Slyke is in charge of arrangements