Richard DeVos: A Legacy of Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

Richard Marvin DeVos, the co-founder of Amway and owner of the Orlando Magic, would have celebrated his 100th birthday on March 4th, 2026. DeVos, a prominent entrepreneur, visionary, and philanthropist, passed away peacefully at his home in Ada, Michigan, on September 6, 2018, at the age of 92 [1]. Even years after his death, he remains a significant figure for many, recognized as a successful businessman, an inspiring speaker, and a key architect of modern direct selling.

From the Great Depression to Entrepreneurship

Born on March 4, 1926, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Richard DeVos grew up during the challenging years of the Great Depression. His father encouraged him to think entrepreneurially and forge his own path – advice that would shape his life. Whereas attending Grand Rapids Christian High School, he met Jay Van Andel, who would become his business partner. Their friendship began pragmatically: DeVos paid Van Andel 25 cents a week to drive him to school in a 1931 Ford Model A.

This simple arrangement evolved into a partnership that would later make economic history.

Early Ventures and a Dramatic Setback

Following service in the military, DeVos and Van Andel embarked on initial business ventures. They established a flight school and opened one of the first drive-in restaurants in Michigan. In 1948, they sold these businesses and used the proceeds to purchase a sailboat. Their plan was a journey to the Caribbean, despite neither having sailing experience. The adventure took a dramatic turn when their wooden schooner, “Elizabeth,” sank off the coast of Cuba. They were rescued by a passing freighter and continued their travels overland through South America.

The Birth of a Global Success Story

In 1949, DeVos and Van Andel invested $49 to become independent distributors for Nutrilite, a vitamin manufacturer. The company already employed a personal selling approach – a concept the two entrepreneurs would later refine.

In 1959, they founded Amway in Ada, Michigan. The first product was an all-purpose cleaner named L.O.C. The business model was straightforward and revolutionary: provide individuals with the opportunity to build their own businesses by directly recommending and selling products.

After the first year, the young company moved into an abandoned gas station – the location of the current Amway headquarters. Over the following decades, this small beginning grew into a multi-billion dollar international corporation and the world’s leading direct selling company.

Leadership Across Generations

Richard DeVos served as President of Amway from its founding until 1993. His son, Dick DeVos, then took the helm, followed by another son, Doug DeVos, in 2002. Today, Doug DeVos and Steve Van Andel, the son of co-founder Jay Van Andel, share the role of Chief Executive. Rich DeVos remained an active member of the company’s board until his death. Steve Van Andel once described him as: “Rich and my father built this company from the ground up, and in many ways, Rich was the heart and soul of Amway.”

The “Cheerleader” of Entrepreneurship

Beyond his role as a businessman, DeVos was known as an inspiring speaker, motivating hundreds of thousands of independent business owners worldwide and delivering numerous presentations to companies and non-profit organizations. He often referred to himself as a “cheerleader” – someone who encourages people to believe in their potential. In his speeches and books, he consistently emphasized the values of freedom, family, faith, and philanthropy.

His published works include:

• BELIEVE! (1975)
• Compassionate Capitalism (1993)
• Hope From My Heart (2000)
• Ten Powerful Phrases for Positive People (2008)
• Simply Rich (2014), an autobiography.

Entrepreneur, Sports Owner, and Visionary

In 1991, the DeVos family acquired the Orlando Magic NBA team. Under their ownership, the team won five division titles and reached the Eastern Conference Finals twice (1995 and 2009). In 2016, DeVos was inducted into the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame.

A Legacy of Philanthropy

Alongside his business success, DeVos was recognized for his strong philanthropic commitment. Together with his late wife, Helen DeVos, he supported numerous projects in education, health, and culture through the Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation.

Significant initiatives included:

• DeVos Place Convention Center
• DeVos Performance Hall
• Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital
• Numerous universities and educational institutions.

Faith as a Guiding Principle

Rich DeVos consistently emphasized that his commitment stemmed from his Christian faith. He often introduced himself as: “I am just a sinner saved by grace.” He was involved in various church organizations and supported numerous Christian educational projects.

A Life of Recognition

Throughout his life, DeVos received numerous honors, including the Horatio Alger Award, recognizing individuals who embody the American dream of rising from humble beginnings. He was also honored by the Direct Selling Association Hall of Fame, the American Marketing Association, and the Philanthropy Roundtable, among others, and received 14 honorary doctorates from various universities.

The Enduring Legacy of an Entrepreneurial Spirit

Richard M. DeVos left behind more than just a successful company. His idea of empowering people worldwide to live entrepreneurial freedom shaped an entire industry. While he did not live to see his 100th birthday on March 4th, 2026, his influence remains palpable – in a global company, in countless entrepreneurial stories, and in a philanthropic legacy that extends far beyond the business world.