Richard "Dick" A. Koob

Richard Albert Koob, known affectionately as Dick or Koobie to his friends, was born to Peter and Pearl Koob on November 11, 1943, in Evanston, IL, and passed away on November 10, 2024. Dick was a veteran of the United States Army and leaves behind his beloved wife Judy, as well as his children Kimberly (husband Greg), Melissa (husband William), and Christopher (wife Grace, granddaughter Eleanor, and grandson Ewan) and cherished dog, Lucy.

During his service in the United States Army, Dick met, courted, and married Judith Midkiff on September 10, 1966. In 1967 he embarked on his notable career in life insurance as a college salesperson with Northwestern Mutual. In 1973, upon graduation, he transitioned to a full-time agent role. Early in his career, Dick pursued a leadership path with the National Association of Insurance & Financial Advisors (NAIFA), serving as association president in Waukesha, Wisconsin since 1988, and as a dedicated member and director of the Wisconsin EFAPAC. He was the proud recipient of the Association Distinguished Service Award, twice from Waukesha AIFA and once from the State of Wisconsin AIFA.

In 1996, Dick was elected to the NAIFA Board of Trustees and re-elected in 1998. His commitment and leadership led to his election as Secretary in 2000 and, in September 2002, he became President. During his presidency, he spearheaded the largest Transformation Task Force (TTF) ever assembled in NAIFA history. His open and intense process helped NAIFA reverse its financial decline, eliminate its deficit, and create a positive cash flow. It has been said that Dick's vision and leadership of the TTF literally saved NAIFA.

Despite his demanding career and leadership roles within the insurance industry, Dick found the energy and commitment to serve his community. He was a Life member and President of the Waukesha Lion’s Club, served on the Salvation Army advisory board, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Additionally, he was Vice-President of his parish council and chaired the finance committee. Dick supported the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra and was a member of its Board of Directors for 12 years. He also chaired the Catholic Memorial High School (CMH) Crusaders’ Auction in 1993 and 1996 and served on the Planned Giving Committee. For 10 years, he was the voice of the Crusaders, announcing their football games.

Dick / Koobie was loved by many and will always be remembered as an exemplary figure who knew how to treat others and gave back to his community and industry that supported him and his family. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of Dick’s life will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 225 S. Hartwell Ave., Waukesha, WI 53186 on Friday, November 22, 2024 with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the 2:45 p.m. eulogy. The funeral Mass will follow the eulogy at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Mary Catholic Church, Waukesha, or to Waukesha Catholic (Schools) (https://www.waukeshacatholic.org/).