Richard M. DeVos was an entrepreneur who, with boyhood friend Jay Van Andel, pioneered direct selling in 1949 when they invested $49 distributing Nutrilite vitamins. That would lead to the creation of Amway in 1959 selling an all-purpose cleaner. Nearly six decades later it is a multi-billion dollar, international corporation.
Born March 4, 1926 in Grand Rapids, Rich DeVos grew up during the Great Depression, attended Grand Rapids Christian High School, attended Calvin College and served in the U.S. Air Corps. in World War II.
Rich and his wife Helen Mr. DeVos have spurred City of Grand Rapids redevelopment projects financially supporting the construction of DeVos Place Convention Center, DeVos Performance Hall, the restoration of the Pantlind Hotel – now the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel – and the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital to name a few.
A philanthropist at heart, the Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation generously supported local causes and higher education.
DeVos was owner of the NBA’s Orlando Magic, an inspirational speaker and author.