GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Community leaders are mourning the death this week of Peter Secchia, a Grand Rapids philanthropist, businessman and former U.S. Ambassador to Italy.
Calling him an icon and visionary leader, several shared their thoughts on his legacy in West Michigan, his support for Michigan State University and his roles in developing Grand Rapids, leading Universal Forest Products and supporting the Republican Party.Secchia passed away Wednesday morning at the age of 83 at his East Grand Rapids home, said family spokesperson Amy LeFebre. She said Secchia recently contracted COVID-19 and had experienced health issues for several months for which he was receiving nursing care at home.
Secchia, a graduate of Michigan State University, was influential in Republican politics and also served as the CEO and chairman of the board at Universal Forest Products (UFP).
“Throughout his life, Peter was firmly committed to his family, his business, his community and his country,” Secchia’s wife, Joan, said in a statement. “His presence in all will be deeply missed.”
The following are statements from community leaders around Michigan:
DeVos Family
“Ambassador Secchia left a lasting impact on our nation, community and family and he will be deeply missed. He was a committed public servant throughout his life, including his time as a beloved Ambassador to Italy. In his adopted hometown of Grand Rapids, he led countless efforts to improve and grow our community by supporting local investment, education, arts and parks
