GRAND RAPIDS, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) – Helen DeVos has died at the age of 90.
The West Michigan philanthropist was a major donor to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and wife of Amway co-founder Rich DeVos. The family released the following statement.
“While we grieve her passing, we rejoice in her new life in heaven and are grateful for the countless ways she blessed our lives. We are comforted in knowing that she was welcomed home into the loving arms of Jesus.”
DeVos has 16 grandchildren and is a great grandmother to 6. U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and designer Pamella Roland are her daughter-in-laws.
Many leaders in Michigan have released statements about DeVos today.
Zeeland Congressman released the following statement:
“Helen DeVos’ impact on our community has been nothing short of monumental. Her philanthropic spirit and servant’s heart truly transformed West Michigan. Though we will all deeply miss Helen, her leadership, compassion, and generosity will continue to improve the lives of countless families for generations to come through the initiatives and institutions she helped found.”
Gov. Rick Snyder:
“Michigan has lost a great advocate and philanthropist with the passing of Helen DeVos. Her steadfast commitment to helping others can be seen every day in many ways, but particularly as families are cared for during some of their most challenging times at the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids. Our state is a better place because of Helen and the tremendous work she accomplished. Sue and I send our most heartfelt condolences to the DeVos family on behalf of all Michiganders.”
Lt. Gov. Brian Calley:
“Helen DeVos lived a life of extraordinary impact. I can think of no better example of faithfulness in action – faithfulness to country, to the community she loved so much, to family who will carry that legacy forward, and especially to God, whose presence she is in today.”
Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette today released the following statement on the passing of Helen DeVos of Grand Rapids:
“Cynthia and I extend our deepest sympathies to Rich DeVos and the entire DeVos family. Helen was a tremendous example of compassion, philanthropy and commitment to family. We will keep her and the entire DeVos family in our prayers.”
The cause of death has not been disclosed and funeral arrangements are pending.
–
