[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 2]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 2403-2404]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




           PAYING TRIBUTE TO A MICHIGAN LEADER, RICHARD DeVOS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE ROGERS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 1, 2006

  Mr. ROGERS of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 
accomplishments of Richard DeVos, a Michigan citizen who exemplifies 
the American spirit of entrepreneurship and community leadership.
  As Richard DeVos celebrates his 80th birthday, we reflect on his many 
achievements as the co-founder of Amway Corp. with his lifelong friend 
and business partner, the late Jay Van Andel, as well as his many 
selfless contributions to his state, community, and fellow citizens.
  The author of three books, ``Believe!,'' ``Compassionate 
Capitalism,'' and ``Hope From My Heart: Ten Lessons for Life,'' Richard 
also is a public speaker with an international following. After 
receiving a heart transplant in 1997, he took on the additional 
responsibility of serving as chairman for the Speakers Bureau for 
United Network for Organ Sharing.
  Richard has owned several professional sports franchises, including 
the Orlando Magic of the National Basketball Association.

[[Page 2404]]

  Richard and his wife, Helen, support many hospitals, colleges and 
universities, arts organizations and Christian causes in their hometown 
of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and also numerous organizations in their 
adopted community in Central Florida.
  A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Richard and his wife Helen have 
raised four children and have 16 grandchildren.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Richard DeVos 
as, on his 80th birthday, we acknowledge his life-long vision, 
compassion, and commitment to the American people and his home state of 
Michigan. Richard DeVos is truly deserving of our respect and 
admiration.

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