RICHARD L. BOLHOUSE, Founding Partner

1953 - 2021

1953 - 2021

Rick was born in Grand Rapids, MI to Herbert and Effie Bolhouse. He graduated from Grand Rapids Central Christian High School, Calvin College, and Valparaiso University School of Law. Following graduation from law school Rick and a classmate opened their own practice in downtown Grand Rapids. In 1982 the firm relocated to downtown Grandville. Rick retired in June of 2021 but continued to serve as Of Counsel to Bolhouse, Hofstee & McLean until the time of his death, a short 5 months later. He left behind a remarkable legal legacy and one his firm promises to uphold.

Rick conducted his life with the utmost integrity and lived by the Golden Rule - Do unto Others as You would have Them do unto You. This philosophy was part of every relationship he had and every endeavor he undertook. He was gifted with a brilliant mind and used that to educate others in the areas of law and history. His community outreach knew no bounds. He served as the chair of the Grandville Downtown Development since its inception in 1980 until the time of his death, was a business law professor at Grand Rapids Community College, taught Bible history to adults at his church, Grandville First Reformed, where he also served as Deacon and Elder, shared his love and knowledge of stamp and coin collecting with anyone who was interested, and presented the most detailed and educational travelogues to various audiences. In 2012 he had the honor of being named Business Person of the Year by the Grandville Chamber of Commerce. With all of this Rick still managed to make his family his first priority. He enjoyed photography, traveling, boating, golfing, and spending time with his family and friends at the cottage near Torch Lake. He will be forever remembered for his wisdom, compassion, humility, and integrity. In a final act of selflessness Rick donated his body to the University of Michigan for research.