West Michigan Philanthropist and Ralph Hauenstein Dies at 103

Philanthropist Ralph W. Hauenstein died in Grand Rapids on January 10, 2016. He was 103.

After a career in newspapers in Grand Rapids, Hauenstein served in intelligence during WWII under General Eisenhower. After a distinguished military career, he became a business leader in the import-export business. Hauenstein went on to become a leading philanthropist in the region.

Hauenstein was a major supporter of Grand Valley State University, including gifts to found and expand the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies.

“Ralph Hauenstein was an extraordinary individual,” said Grand Valley President Thomas J. Haas. “He was a man of great honor, great integrity and all who knew him feel it was a privilege. His presence in our lives and in this community will be sorely missed.”

He received an Honorary Doctorate from Grand Valley in 2004, saying in a speech: “If you are going to be a leader, if you are going to serve your community and your country, then you must not be timid or resigned to come-what-may. You must take the future into your own hands, to the extent that you are able. You must work to turn the odds in your favor. What is needed are courageous, visionary leaders.”