Marilyn Kroc Barg is the daughter of the renowned American businessman Ray Kroc and his wife, Elizabeth Fleming.
Unfortunately, she passed away at the age of 48 in 1973, decades before her father’s death.
This article will explore Marilyn’s early life, her famous parents, her career, her net worth, and the details of her passing.
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Quick Bio
| Full Name | Marilyn Janet Lynn Kroc Barg |
| Known as | Marilyn Kroc Barg |
| Famous as | Ray Kroc’s Daughter |
| Profession | Businesswoman and philanthropist |
| Date of Birth | October 15, 1924 |
| Place of Birth | Chicago Cook County, Illinois, United States |
| Date of Death | September 11, 1973 |
| Place of Death | Arlington Heights, Cook County, Illinois |
| Place of Burial | Skokie’s Memorial Park Cemetery |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouses | Walter James Barg |
| Ex-spouse | Sylvester Nordly Nelson |
| Father | Ray Kroc |
| Mother | Ethel Fleming |
| Siblings | None |
| Gender | Female |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Net Worth | $1 million |
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Early Life
Marilyn Janet Lynn Kroc was born on October 15, 1924, in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois. She was the daughter of Ray Kroc and his first wife, Ethel Janet Fleming.
In Chicago, Marilyn experienced a modest upbringing. Growing up as an only child, Marilyn spent her formative years alongside her parents in their hometown.
While details about her educational journey are lacking, her early years were undoubtedly shaped by the simplicity of her upbringing and the love of her family.
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Father: Ray Kroc
Raymond Albert Kroc was a successful American businessman famous for impacting McDonald’s, the famous fast-food chain. He was born on October 5, 1902, in Oak Park, Illinois.
Raymond acquired the McDonald’s company from the McDonald brothers in 1961. Kroc’s leadership as CEO from 1967 to 1973 brought the brand to remarkable heights.
He revolutionized the fast-food industry, pushing McDonald’s to become the world’s exclusive fast-food corporation in revenue.
Kroc’s legacy is the result of his entrepreneurial spirit and incredible influence on global business practices.
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Mother: Ethel Fleming
Ethel Fleming was born on December 25, 1890, in Ohio, USA. She gained recognition as Ray Kroc’s former wife. Their marriage lasted for 39 years.
Ethel largely withdrew from public view after their divorce. Tragically, she passed away on December 26, 1965, in Miami, Florida, USA, due to natural causes.
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Parents’ Relationship
Ray and Ethel’s love story began in 1919 in their early 20s. The young couple fell deeply in love, eventually tying the knot in 1922.
They welcomed their beloved daughter, Marilyn, two years later into the world. For nearly four decades, Ray and Ethel navigated the ups and downs of married life with grace.
However, after 39 years together, their marriage faced challenges, leading to their divorce in 1961.
While Ethel chose to remain single following their separation, Ray remarried twice, first to Jane Dobbins Green and later to Joan Beverly Kroc.
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Marriages
Marilyn’s marital journey began in 1949 when she exchanged vows with Sylvester Nordly Nelson. Details about the duration of their marriage remain unavailable.
Unfortunately, their union eventually ended in separation. In 1960, Marilyn found love again and married Walter James Barg, marking her second marriage.
Unlike her first, this partnership lasted until her passing in 1973, representing a chapter of commitment and companionship in Marilyn’s life.
Who Were Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Husbands?
Marilyn’s first husband, Sylvester, belonged to Minnesota and served in the 363rd Infantry during World War II.
He was born on September 1, 1916, to Edward S. Nelson and Hanna E. Nordly Nelson. Sylvester passed away on October 6, 1960, in Wisconsin at the age of 44.
On the other hand, Marilyn’s second husband, Walter, pursued a career in administration. He was born on May 3, 1920, in Evanston, Illinois.
Walter was the son of William Thomas Barg and Louisa R. Rapold Barg and grew up alongside siblings Eleanor and William Peter Barg.
He passed away on June 17, 1984, at the age of 64 and was buried at All Saints Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum.
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Career And Philanthropy
Marilyn Kroc was a businesswoman. She founded Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). It is a U.S. nonprofit that aids low-income families with sick children by providing support and accommodation near hospitals.
Marilyn led initiatives like the Salvation Army’s kettle program and assisted in humanitarian causes. Beyond philanthropy, Marilyn ventured into politics.
She hosted influential fundraisers for figures like Nixon and Reagan. Her focus on healthcare philanthropy and political engagement highlighted her commitment to shaping society and politics.
Marilyn left behind a long-lasting legacy of kindness and social impact.
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Net Worth
Reportedly, Marilyn Kroc Barg had a net worth of $1 million at the time of her death. In contrast, her father’s fortune at the time of his death in 1984 totaled $600 million.
Marilyn Kroc Barg’s Tragic Death
Marilyn Janet Lynn Kroc Barg passed away at the age of 48 on September 11, 1973, in Arlington Heights, Cook County, Illinois.
Diabetic complications were the reason behind her untimely death. Marilyn’s final resting place is Skokie’s Memorial Park Cemetery.
Friends and family gathered at Lauterburg & Dehler Memorial Home for a sorrowful farewell, reminiscing and honoring Marilyn’s life. Her charitable legacy continues to inspire even after her early departure.
