[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 24 (Wednesday, March 1, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E243-E244]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              IN RECOGNITION OF MR. RICHARD M. DeVOS, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOE KNOLLENBERG

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 1, 2006

  Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a civic and 
business leader of Michigan, Mr. Richard M. DeVos, Sr., who will 
celebrate his 80th birthday this year.
  Mr. DeVos cofounded the Amway Corporation, one of the most successful 
direct selling companies in the world. His efforts have enabled over 3 
million people to own independent businesses.
  Yet Mr. DeVos's work stretches beyond the realm of business; both he 
and his wife are

[[Page E244]]

actively involved in philanthropy and charitable work. Their generosity 
has helped countless individuals both in their hometown of Grand Rapids 
and across Michigan. Institutions such as the DeVos Children's 
Hospital, the Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, and the DeVos 
Campus of Grand Valley State University bear witness to their 
commitment to give back to the community.
  Richard DeVos has also written three books that have inspired 
innovative and entrepreneurial spirits in younger generations. After 
undergoing a heart transplant in 1997, Mr. DeVos became the chairman of 
the Speakers Bureau for United Network for Organ Sharing and has worked 
diligently to deliver his message of perseverance and hope.
  Today I rise to thank Richard M. DeVos, Sr. for his lifetime of 
service and dedication to our community, to congratulate him on his 
many accomplishments, and to wish him a happy and healthy birthday.

                          ____________________