Richard Reed, founder of ASF Payment Solutions, Denver, Colorado, died on Aug. 26, according to an announcement by ASF.
Reed founded ASF in 1973 after he could not find a billing and contract management company that did all he wanted for martial arts and fitness facilities, according to a history of ASF on its website. Reed also co-founded the American Tae Kwon Do Association in 1969, and in 1981, he opened the Marina Fitness Club in San Francisco.
In retirement he started the Richard R. Reed Foundation, which is a private foundation that focuses on presenting grants to other non-profits that promote science and reason, as well as to help children and animals in need. The foundation is privately funded and does not seek donations from the general public.
The announcement of his death also stated: "His lifetime achievements and legacy will live on in both the ATA and ASF Payment Solutions, as these organizations were his lifelong dreams. Richard Reed had a tremendous influence on thousands of lives during his lifetime and will be truly missed, but will always be remembered."
The announcement did not list the cause of death. A memorial is being planned, but details are not yet available.