David Lee Regan

In Loving Memory of David Lee Regan “Reegs”

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dave Regan, a beloved husband, father, and friend, who left us on August 24, 2024. Born on March 12, 1938, he was 86 years old.

Dave went home to join his wife Sharon who recently passed 75 days earlier on June 11, 2024.  They were married for almost 62 years.  The official cause of death is laryngeal cancer, but the true cause of death was a broken heart.  When mom passed, his will to live left with her.  Together, they created a home filled with joy, stability, laughter, and unwavering support.

Dad lived a life marked by boundless energy, unwavering dedication, with a vision and creativity that radiated an infectious enthusiasm for living. He lit up every room he entered with his resounding “Yeah Buddy!”

He graduated from Waukegan Township High School [Illinois] in 1956 and earned his BS & MBA in International Trade from Michigan State University in 1962.  He met Sharon as the residence hall manager at MSU and were married in 1963. An accomplished entrepreneur, he built Plas-Labs, Inc., a one-of-a-kind international laboratory research equipment company founded in Lansing, MI.

Dad earned numerous business accolades like “Exporter of the Year” from the Lansing Chamber of Commerce and due to his expertise in international business, he was routinely asked to speak at groups like the Global Business Club at MSU.  Dad was even interviewed by the Wall Street Journal during the worldwide Ebola outbreak because of his knowledge of infectious diseases and the equipment Plas-Labs developed to help researchers mitigate the situation. Through hard work, vision, and a relentless drive that inspired everyone around him, his innovative spirit and leadership left an indelible mark on his business, his family and his friends.

Dad was an avid golfer whose passion for the game was only matched by his love for his “knickers” and a good cigar. His unmistakable style on the golf course had people stop and take notice of the 1920’s time capsule of his wardrobe and class, being the only person wearing “Plus-4 knickers” on the golf course, reminiscent of the late PGA professional Payne Stewart. The putting green was his second home, and he cherished the countless hours spent chipping and putting while enjoying a cigar and adult beverage at the country club.  The highlight, other than playing in the annual invitational tournament with his three sons, was snatching that all elusive “hole-in-one” at Walnut Hills CC on April 2, 1994.

He was active with the local Kiwanis club, Theta Chi fraternity (where he recently was awarded “Brother of the Year” for 2024) and model railroading where he would hold an annual open house for up to 50 children to watch his railroad operate.

His greatest legacy, however, was the love and devotion he demonstrated to his family.

He is survived by his three sons, Robert “RJ” (grandchildren David (Sara), Katie (John), Stephanie and Natalie), Michael (wife Courtney, grandchildren Brooke, Eve, Joey and Finn, great-grandchild Bella), and Patrick (wife Stacy, grandchildren Keenum and Callum). He was a guiding light, offering wisdom, encouragement, and a steadfast presence in every stage of their lives. His sons were his joy, and his influence will continue to shape their lives.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 4pm to 5pm at the Country Club of Lansing, 2200 Moores River Dr., Lansing, MI, with a reception from 5pm to 7pm to follow.

His absence leaves a profound void, but the love and lessons he shared will forever remain with us. Rest in peace, dad. You will be dearly missed and never forgotten.  Tell mom we miss and love her too.

Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.