Longtime Grand Rapids Businessman and Philanthropist Peter Secchia died Wednesday morning at his home at the age of 83, according to a spokesperson for the family. Officials close to Secchia say he had recently contracted COVID-19, which was a contributing factor in his death. He also had underlying health conditions over the past several months and had been receiving nursing care at his residence.
Secchia will be most remembered as the CEO for Universal Forest Products until becoming the United States Ambassador to Italy under President George H.W. Bush.
Peter Secchia was also a giving Philanthropist…who along with the likes of Dick DeVos and Jay Van Andel, led the effort to revitalize Downtown Grand Rapids with the with Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place and the Downtown Market.
Sechhia’s name is synonymous with buildings at Grand Valley State University, Michigan State University, Spectrum Health and many others.
He is survived by his wife Joan, and four children; the family announced Wednesday that funeral services would be private.