Ray Kroc Divorce The Story of His Marriage And Separation
Ray Kroc’s life took a significant turn when he faced a divorce that marked the end of his long-standing marriage. This story is filled with ups and downs, secrets, and new beginnings.
Ray’s First Marriage
Back in 1922, a young Ray Kroc, yet to make his mark as a successful businessman, tied the knot with Ethel Fleming. They were both in their twenties and had known each other for nearly three years before saying “I do.” Their paths had crossed when Ray worked as a piano player near Paw Paw Lake in Michigan. Ethel, who lived nearby, was the daughter of hotel owners in Paw Paw Lake. Initially, they were just friends, but their friendship soon blossomed into love.
Fast forward to 1961, after almost four decades of marriage, they decided to part ways. It was a divorce that attracted significant attention. Ethel cited irreconcilable differences as the reason for their separation. Rumors also swirled about Ray’s romantic involvement with another woman, Joan Smith, who would later become his third wife.
Ethel and Her Daughter
From her union with Ray Kroc, Ethel had a daughter named Marilyn Janet Lynn Kroc, born on October 15, 1924. As she grew up, Marilyn became an accomplished Equestrian. In her personal life, Marilyn had two marriages, first to Sylvester Nordly Nelson and then to Walter James Barg. Tragically, Marilyn passed away at the age of 48 due to complications from diabetes.
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The Divorce Settlement
Ethel received a substantial settlement from the divorce, with some sources estimating her net worth at around $10 million at the time of her death. This financial outcome was likely influenced by Ray Kroc’s successful career at McDonald’s during the divorce proceedings.
Ethel’s Quiet Departure
On December 2, 1965, which happened to be her 64th birthday, Ethel Fleming passed away in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, USA. Ethel had always led a private life, and the cause of her death remained undisclosed. The prevailing belief is that she passed away from natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of secrecy.
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Ray’s Second Marriages
After his divorce from Ethel, Ray Kroc asked his mistress, Joan Smith, to move in with him. However, Joan was married to Navy Veteran Rollie Smith and had an 11-year-old daughter named Linda. Under family pressure, Joan declined Ray’s proposal and ended their relationship. Ray went on to marry his second wife, Jane Dobbins Green, in 1963. Unfortunately, their marriage encountered difficulties when Ray rekindled his affair with Joan.
Ultimately, Ray divorced Jane in 1968 and married Joan Smith, who became known as Joan Kroc. Meanwhile, Ethel chose to remain single until her death.
Ray Kroc’s life was filled with twists and turns, from his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise as the CEO of McDonald’s. His story is a testament to motivation, determination, and hard work.
