Gladstone innovator dies at 54

By Dionna Harris
GLADSTONE — Richard “Dick” VandeVusse, 54, is being remembered as a visionary and a champion for science and the education of youth. The local businessman died Saturday after being stricken a week earlier. VandeVusse, an innovator and industrialist, never asked his employees to undertake anything he himself would not undertake, according to his wife, Bev. “Richard would challenge his employees and himself to do better, saying that they could reach the next level. He had a dream of going into business for himself, and that dream became a reality. He was a true visionary,” she said. In April, VandeVusse was honored as one of the state’s most outstanding manufacturing leaders by the Michigan Manufacturer’s Association. “He was an advocate of making dreams come true, he started AG Solutions in the garage as a hobby, before moving to the industrial park in Gladstone. He shared his knowledge, and was always helping others,” she said. What started as a hobby became a million dollar business. “While Richard may be gone, his dream lives on. We will continue to pursue his dream full steam ahead. We will meet the challenge,” said Bev. Vickie Micheau, director of the Delta County Area Chamber of Commerce, remembered VandeVusse as exhibiting all the spirit that exists within an entrepreneur. “He was a visionary not only in business, but also in the community. He will be missed. However, I believe that his legacy will continue through his family and all those who not only associated with him but also came into contact with him,” said Micheau. Orrin Bailey, CEO of Michigan Works, remembered VandeVusse as being supportive of Upper Peninsula youngsters receiving an education, growing up in the U.P. and then giving back to the economy of the U.P. “He was supportive of NewPage’s Science Essay contest, and was a keynote speaker during one of the awards presentations,” said Bailey. Bailey also remembered VandeVusse as wanting to assist young people to learn, and grow, he cared about young people, and wanted to provide several opportunities for kids.