senate concurrent resolution no. 31
Senator Shirkey offered the following concurrent resolution:
Whereas, It was with great sorrow that the members of the Michigan Legislature learned of the passing of Richard Dick Allen. A dedicated public servant, he will be remembered as a legislator who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents in mid-Michigan and the entire state of Michigan; and
Whereas, Dick Allen was born and raised on his family s farm in Ithaca. After graduating from Ithaca High School, he went on to attend Michigan State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree, Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, and completed additional coursework towards a PhD in agricultural economics. After college, he operated his own veterinary practice, taught at Alma College, and worked on his family s farm. He also served the community through his involvement with the local Rotary Club, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association, among other endeavors. His educational background, career, and wide range of life experiences prepared him well for his time as a legislator; and
Whereas, Dick Allen was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1968 where he served two terms before being elected to the Michigan Senate in 1974 where he served two terms. During his tenure in the House, he represented the Eighty-eighth House District. While a member of the House of Representatives, he served on the committees on Consumers and Agriculture, Retirement, and Public Health where he served as vice chair. From 1975 to 1982, he represented the Thirtieth Senate District. While a member of the Senate, he served on the Senate committees on Agriculture and Consumer Affairs, Education, Tourist Industry Relations, Appropriations, and Transportation, as well as the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules; and
Whereas, Dick Allen was known to be a fierce advocate for bicycling safety and nonmotorized trail development. One of his most notable legislative accomplishments was the passage of legislation that requires the Michigan Department of Transportation to spend a percentage of road money on nonmotorized trail facilities. He also founded the Dick Allen Lansing to Mackinaw (DALMAC) bicycle tour in 1971, which is one of the state s longest-running bicycle tours. DALMAC has been enjoyed by thousands of bicyclists and raised over $1.5 million in funds for bicycle-related projects; and
Whereas, After leaving office, Dick Allen continued his career as Michigan s Small Business Ombudsman and Executive Director of the Michigan State Fair, among other roles. He also continued to serve the community through his involvement with various not-for-profit organizations, such as the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance, the Audubon Society, the Michigan Forestry Association, and the Sierra Club; and
Whereas, Dick Allen leaves behind a legacy as a highly passionate public servant and effective leader, which is evidenced by his many accomplishments. He was also a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Upon his passing, we offer our condolences to his family and friends. We hope they find comfort in the knowledge that his contributions will long continue to enrich this state; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Richard J. Allen, a member of the House of Representatives from 1969 to 1972 and the Senate from 1975 to 1982; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Allen family as evidence of our lasting esteem for his memory.