[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 149 (Friday, September 7, 2018)]
[House]
[Page H7938]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF RICHARD M. DeVOS

  (Mr. HUIZENGA asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. HUIZENGA. Mr. Speaker, it was with a heavy heart yesterday that 
we learned of the passing of Richard M. DeVos, Sr.
  Rich, along with his wife, Helen, who passed away in October of 2017, 
dedicated their lives to transforming west Michigan and making our 
community an even greater place to call home. Frankly, it is hard to 
imagine what west Michigan would look like without Richard DeVos and 
his leadership.
  Through his philanthropic activities, Rich led by example. He put a 
premium on supporting educational institutions across west Michigan, 
such as Grand Rapids Christian High School, Calvin College, and Grand 
Valley State University.
  He was equally passionate about west Michigan residents having access 
to high-quality, specialized medical care.
  He also worked to enrich the arts across Michigan, including by 
supporting his grandson, Rick, in establishing ArtPrize, which has 
opened up so many opportunities for Grand Rapids.
  He was also very involved with many projects at Hope College in 
Holland, Michigan. Generally, anything that helped make the community 
thrive, Rich was fully behind.
  As significant as those achievements are, his impact on west 
Michigan's economy was even greater and simply cannot be understated. 
Through his business sense, passion, and servant's heart, he created 
economic opportunities for countless west Michigan residents.
  Despite his monumental influence, Rich was as approachable and down 
to earth as they come. Rich generally cared about his community and the 
people he shared it with.
  Thank you for all you have done for west Michigan, Rich; and while 
your legacy will live on, know that your leadership and friendship will 
be deeply missed.
  Rest well, Rich. Rest well, knowing you ran a race well done.

                          ____________________