Robert Neil Dick's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we remember the life and legacy of Robert Neil Dick, lovingly known as “Bob”, who peacefully passed away on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, surrounded by his family. Born on September 21, 1939, in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Bob's journey was marked by a profound commitment to public service and an unwavering dedication to the community he held dear.
Bob's early years were spent in the quaint town of Sapulpa, where he was born in a house on Sugar Loaf Hill to proud parents, R.H. Dick, and Gertrude Alice (Tucker) Dick. At the age of 8, Bob and his family relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma due to his father's job at Rainbow Bread. It was in Tulsa that Bob's remarkable life truly began to take shape.
After graduating from Central High in Tulsa in 1957, Bob embarked on an academic journey that eventually saw him earning a juris doctorate, a testament to his studious and serious nature. Family and friends often referred to him as the person you would want when it came to "phoning a friend" for advice or knowledge. In the early years of the Vietnam War, Bob selflessly served his country, wearing both Navy and Marine Corps uniforms with honor and distinction. His dedication to duty and love for his homeland were unwavering. After serving his country, he returned home to Tulsa and joined the Tulsa Police Department in 1963. Bob’s remarkable career was highlighted by his tenure as the Tulsa Police Chief, where he served from 1983 to 1987. Within 48 hours of retiring from TPD, he was appointed as the Tulsa Police & Fire Commissioner. Moreover, Bob also served as a Tulsa County Commissioner from 1990 to 2006.
During his time in the TPD, Bob initiated several groundbreaking programs: the Community Service Office Program, the Domestic Violence Intervention Program, the Burglary Prevention Program, and the Neighborhood Watch. As County Commissioner, Bob was a guiding force behind 4 To Fix the County, replacement of the county jail, and even played a pivotal role in the passage of the first Vision 2025 package, which included the BOK Center as well as improvements to every city in the county.
Bob married the love of his life, Mary Catherine Trent, on April 21, 1979, and together, they created a lifetime of memories. Bob had a rich array of interests and hobbies. He enjoyed golfing, engaging in card games with his buddies at the country club, and indulging in his love for educational programming, particularly the History Channel. He was known for his exceptional storytelling abilities, able to paint vivid pictures with his words. His discipline and negotiation skills made him a force to be reckoned with in any setting. After retiring, Bob and Mary traveled extensively to multiple countries, each trip being essentially another honeymoon adventure. They also found joy in cruising together, exploring the world hand in hand.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his sons, Robert and Fred, and his infant grandson, Braxton Lee Russell. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Mary Dick, sister, Phyllis Robisch, daughters, Tami Benson, Amy Cooper (Tom), and Leslie Dick (Mike Bradshaw). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Dr. Molly DuBois (Colin), Patrick Benson, Elliott Hollaway (Jessica Squires), Grayson Nicholson (Darin), Spencer Hollaway (Taylor Davenport), Snaysha Russell (Deyon Sadler), Britton Russell (Cearah Nett), Hayden Trent, and Avery Sanchez (Alex), as well as his 5 great-grandchildren, Hazel, Jaxton, Harlow, Alaia, Alanni, and finally, his beloved companion, his dog Vanna.
Bob's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy of service, love, and dedication will continue to inspire. For his unwavering dedication, steadfast commitment, and decades of selfless service to the Tulsa Police Department, the city of Tulsa, and Tulsa County, we extend our deepest gratitude. As we bid farewell to a true public servant and community leader, let us remember Commissioner Dick’s remarkable contributions and may his memory inspire us all to continue his legacy of service and dedication.
Visitation will be held on Monday, October 2, 2023, from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, at Floral Haven Funeral Home, 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.
Services to honor the life of Bob are scheduled for 3:00 PM the following day, Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel, 6500 S 129th E Ave, Broken Arrow, OK 74012. The U.S. Navy Honor Guard will be in attendance to perform Military Honors as well as the Tulsa Police Department.
***Services will be live streamed starting at 2:50 PM on Tuesday, October 03, 2023. To view the service live, please click on the following link: https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/93102
Immediately following services, a reception will be held, where family and friends can continue sharing memories, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, 301 S 9th Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.
Arrangements entrusted to Floral Haven Funeral Home.
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