FEC And Coin-Op Pioneer Dave Corriveau Dies At 63

DALLAS -- One of the originators of the Dave & Buster's arcade and restaurant concept is dead at 63. According to local news sources, David Corriveau passed away here on Feb. 7.

Corriveau and James "Buster" Corley opened the first Dave & Buster's in 1982 in Dallas, where the two-time and current publicly traded company is now headquartered. Edison Brothers Stores, a former national arcade operation, purchased a majority ownership in the company to finance further expansion into other cities. Dave & Buster's later spun off from Edison Brothers and went public in 1995.

Corriveau was president, chief executive and chairman of Dave & Buster's before exiting in 2007, the year after it became a private entity. His primary focus at the company was amusement operations, new store development and conceptual evolution.

Three years ago, the entertainment pioneer launched Dave's World, which was working on developing a prototype for an upscale food and amusement venue.

Dave & Buster's released the following statement: "We are deeply saddened to learn of Dave Corriveau's passing. As a cofounder of Dave & Buster's, he was a true innovator in the world of restaurant entertainment and will be greatly missed. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time."

Dave & Buster's now operates in 73 venues in 30 states and Canada. According to preliminary estimates, the chain generated about $750 million in its most recent fiscal year, ended Feb. 1.