Dick de Vos - Family and Early Life

Family and Early Life

Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, DeVos is a graduate of the Forest Hills public school system and received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Northwood University. He later attended, but did not graduate from, the Harvard Business School and the Wharton School's Executive Study Programs. DeVos has received honorary doctorates from Grove City College, Central Michigan University and Northwood University, as well as distinguished alumni recognition from Northwood University.

His wife, Betsy DeVos, is the former chairperson of the Michigan Republican Party. DeVos and his wife have four children: Richard Marvin (Rick), III, Elisabeth (Elissa), Andrea and Ryan. Additionally, Dick and Betsy have one grandchild.

DeVos is an avid competitive sailor with two national titles and numerous regatta victories to his credit. He regularly competes in the Chicago-Mackinac race, the longest fresh water sailing race in the world and is a previous winner there, too.

Additionally, DeVos is an avid aviator. He is type rated in the Cessna Citation CJ4 and an EC 130 rated helicopter pilot.

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