Richard DeVos: Businessman, Philanthropist, and Co‑founder of Amway

Early life, education and military service

DeVos was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II, an experience that preceded his return to civilian life and business pursuits. He later attended Calvin College and began working in sales and distribution before starting the enterprise that would become Amway.

Founding Amway and business approach

In 1959 DeVos and Van Andel launched the company that built its distribution on independent representatives selling consumer products directly to customers and recruiting other sellers. The model led to rapid expansion, international growth and the creation of affiliated companies; the corporate family reorganized under a parent company called Alticor in 2000. Under DeVos’s direction the organization diversified into manufacturing, distribution and other business activities.

Controversies and regulatory attention

The direct‑selling and multi‑level marketing model used by Amway attracted both supporters and critics. Over time the business faced regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges in multiple jurisdictions, a pattern common to large direct‑selling firms as authorities examined compensation practices, consumer protection and marketing claims. Observers note that such scrutiny coexisted with substantial customer bases and long‑standing distributor networks.

Sports ownership, wealth and public profile

DeVos expanded his public profile by participating in sports ownership; he and partners acquired the NBA team the Orlando Magic. Business success placed him on wealth rankings such as Forbes, which in 2012 listed him among the richest Americans and worldwide billionaires. At various times he appeared among the wealthiest people in the United States.

Philanthropy, civic engagement and political activity

DeVos and his family were active philanthropists, supporting educational, cultural and faith‑based institutions and civic projects, particularly in Michigan. He provided grants and gifts to a range of organizations and initiatives; his giving reflected interests in education, community development and religious causes. DeVos was also a notable donor to conservative political causes and candidates, and his philanthropy often intersected with public policy debates.

Family and faith

DeVos married Helen June Van Wesep in 1953; the couple had four children and maintained a long marriage until her death in 2017. Their family remained prominent in business and public affairs. Their son Dick DeVos married Betsy DeVos, who later served as U.S. Secretary of Education. The family practiced a Reformed tradition of Christianity and identified with the Reformed Christian faith, which influenced many of their charitable choices.

Legacy and death

• DeVos helped build one of the most widely recognized direct‑selling enterprises and oversaw its expansion into international markets and associated businesses.
• He combined business leadership with high‑profile philanthropy and political engagement, making him a visible figure in Michigan civic life and national debates.
• His career included both acclaim for entrepreneurship and criticism tied to the business model his company employed; scholars and journalists have examined both the economic impact and regulatory issues connected to such enterprises.

Richard DeVos died on September 6, 2018 in Ada, Michigan, from complications of an infection at age 92. His obituary and public remembrances recounted a lifetime of business activity, family leadership and substantial philanthropic involvement. For additional context on the firm he co‑founded, see Amway, and for information on his longtime business partner, see Jay Van Andel. His life and work continue to be discussed in accounts of American entrepreneurship, philanthropy and the modern direct‑selling industry.