Richard DeVos

Early Life and Education

Richard DeVos was a man who believed in the power of ambition, faith, and perseverance. From humble beginnings in Michigan to building a billion-dollar enterprise and leaving an indelible mark on philanthropy and sports, his story is one of vision, resilience, and generosity.

Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1926, DeVos grew up in a close-knit Dutch-American family. His parents worked in the electrical industry, instilling in him the values of hard work and determination from an early age. He attended Grand Rapids Christian School before enrolling at Calvin College, though he never completed his degree. However, the classroom was not where DeVos would make his mark—it was in the world of business and leadership.

Career

During World War II, DeVos served as a flight officer in the United States Army Air Corps. The discipline and leadership skills he gained during this time would later shape his approach to business and life. After the war, he reunited with his high school friend Jay Van Andel, and together they embarked on a journey that would change both of their lives forever.

In 1959, with little more than a shared entrepreneurial spirit, DeVos and Van Andel co-founded Amway, a direct-selling company that started with a single product—a multipurpose household cleaner. Armed with determination and an innovative multi-level marketing model, they knocked on doors, built relationships, and expanded their business. Over time, Amway grew into a global powerhouse, selling a vast range of products, from cosmetics to dietary supplements, and generating billions in revenue. Their success was built on a belief in personal empowerment, inspiring countless individuals to pursue financial independence through direct sales.

Beyond his achievements in business, DeVos had a passion for sports. In 1991, he purchased the Orlando Magic for $85 million, bringing stability and ambition to the franchise. His deep investment in the team reflected his love for competition and excellence. Though he had initially set his sights on acquiring a Major League Baseball expansion franchise for Orlando, his impact on the NBA was profound, as he helped shape the Magic into a respected organization.

Personal Life and Legacy

Philanthropy was a cornerstone of DeVos’s life. A devout Christian, he channeled much of his wealth into causes close to his heart. Education, healthcare, the arts, and faith-based initiatives all benefited from his generosity. He and his wife, Helen, supported countless scholarships, hospitals, and community programs, leaving a legacy of giving that extended far beyond his business success.

DeVos was also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on business, leadership, and faith in several books, including “Compassionate Capitalism,” “Hope From My Heart: Ten Lessons for Life,” “Believe!,” and “Simply Rich.” His writings reflected his unwavering belief that success should be paired with responsibility and service to others.

In his later years, DeVos faced significant health challenges. He underwent two heart-bypass surgeries, one in 1983 and another in 1992, followed by a heart transplant in 1997. Despite these obstacles, he remained active in his business and philanthropic endeavors, continuing to inspire those around him.

On September 6, 2018, Richard DeVos passed away at the age of 92. His legacy, however, endures—not just in the vast Amway empire or the Orlando Magic, but in the lives he touched through his generosity and belief in the potential of others. He was more than an entrepreneur; he was a mentor, a philanthropist, and a man who turned dreams into reality, leaving behind a world forever changed by his vision.