Early Life and Christian Foundation
Richard Marvin DeVos Sr., born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1926, was influenced deeply by his family's faith and the challenges of the Great Depression. His father instilled in him the desire for independence through entrepreneurship, famously advising, 'Own your own business, Rich. It's the only way to be truly free.' This foundational belief in self-reliance and faith in God guided DeVos throughout his life.
Building Amway on Christian Principles
DeVos found a lifelong friend and business partner in Jay Van Andel during their time at Grand Rapids Christian High School. Together, they embarked on various ventures, culminating in the founding of Amway in 1959. Amway was built on principles of freedom, family, hope, and reward, and DeVos's Christian faith was integral to the company's ethos. He believed in living out his beliefs daily, famously reading the Christmas story from the Bible to his employees every year.
Faith During Health Crisis
A critical moment in DeVos's faith journey was his conscious decision to follow Christ. He confessed, 'I'm a sinner saved by grace — a Christian, saved by Jesus Christ. That's who I really am.' His faith was further tested and affirmed through health crises, including a heart transplant in 1997, which he attributed to 'the grace of God and nothing else.'
Legacy of Faith and Generosity
Rich DeVos's life was marked by a generosity that stemmed from his faith. Alongside his wife, Helen, he committed to giving ten percent of their income to the Church and other causes. His gratitude for God's blessings was a constant refrain in his speeches and writings. 'I give God the glory for the people I've worked with who have helped me along the way,' he often remarked.
Through his work with Amway, his motivational speaking, and his philanthropic efforts, DeVos demonstrated a life lived in service to others, driven by a profound faith in Jesus. His legacy is one of compassion and integrity, with a clear message: the transformative power of faith can guide and sustain through life's challenges.