The benefits and legal communities have lost one of the stalwart champions of the private retirement system — Alvin D. Lurie, who passed away Nov. 17 at age 92.
Many younger practitioners never heard Al speak nor read any of the plethora of articles he authored. Al’s unique writing style and mastery of English were immediately recognizable. He was insightful and unequivocal — whether it be praise or criticism.
He served as the first Assistant Commissioner of the IRS after ERISA was enacted in 1974. At ASPPA’s 2014 annual conference, Al was a panelist on a retrospective of ERISA’s 40th anniversary. Many attendees remarked at how Al, at the young age of 91, did not miss a beat and was as sharp as a tack. That was Al. He was a professional’s professional throughout his life.
While his activity in the legal community waned in recent years, his legacy will continue. Al was instrumental in the formation of Corbel (now SunGard Relius), and the New York University Review of Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation continues to be published (one of Al’s passions was serving as Chair and editor).
We have lost a friend and one of the great leaders of our industry.
Robert M. Richter, JD, LL.M, APM, is a vice president at SunGard Relius. He served as ASPPA President in 2011-1012 and is currently Treasurer of the American Retirement Association.
Following is a video of Al's participation as a panelist on a retrospective of ERISA’s 40th anniversary.
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