Richard DeVos

Date of Birth: March 4, 1926

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: September 6, 2018

Biography

Richard Marvin DeVos Sr. was an influential American businessman best known as the co-founder of Amway, a multi-level marketing company. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, DeVos partnered with his high school friend Jay Van Andel to launch Amway in 1959. The company originally sold cleaning products but expanded into a wide array of consumer goods, employing a distinctive multi-level marketing model that allowed independent distributors to earn income through sales and recruitment. Under DeVos’s guidance, Amway became a global enterprise with operations in over 100 countries. Beyond his business ventures, DeVos was deeply involved in philanthropy and politics. He and his wife, Helen, contributed to numerous educational, religious, and health initiatives. DeVos also owned the NBA’s Orlando Magic, furthering his influence in the sports world. A committed Republican, he was an active donor and even ran for Governor of Michigan in 2006, though he was not elected. DeVos passed away on September 6, 2018, leaving behind a legacy of entrepreneurship and charitable work.

5 Interesting Facts about Richard DeVos

1. Richard DeVos co-founded Amway in 1959, which stands for “American Way.”

2. He served as President of Amway from its founding until 1993.

3. DeVos authored several books, including the best-selling “Hope From My Heart: Ten Lessons for Life.”

4. He purchased the NBA’s Orlando Magic in 1991.

5. Richard DeVos was a significant contributor to the Republican Party and various conservative causes.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Richard DeVos

1. “It is impossible to win the race unless you venture to run, impossible to win the victory unless you dare to battle.”

2. “Money cannot buy peace of mind. It cannot heal ruptured relationships, or build meaning into a life that has none.”

3. “The only thing that stands between a person and what they want in life is the will to try it and the faith to believe it is possible.”

4. “If I had some idea of a finish line, don’t you think I would have crossed it years ago?”

5. “Life…It tends to respond to our outlook, to shape itself to meet our expectations.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth Richard DeVos achieved was approximately $5.4 billion.

Children

Richard DeVos had four children: 1. Dick DeVos, a businessman and former CEO of Amway. 2. Dan DeVos, involved in various business ventures and sports team ownership. 3. Cheri DeVos Vander Weide, who has remained relatively private. 4. Doug DeVos, who succeeded his father as President of Amway.