Marilyn, affectionately known as ‘Lynn’, was the solitary offspring of Raymond Albert Kroc, the leading architect of McDonald’s success.
Who was Marilyn Kroc? Many people have searched for the most satisfying answer. The simple answer is easily discerned, but information about Marilyn Kroc Barg’s background remains elusive. Marilyn Kroc Barg was adept at maintaining her privacy.
Unraveling the story of Marilyn’s life reveals that it is entwined with that of her parents. Marilyn Kroc Barg was born on October 15th, 1924, in Chicago, to Ray and Ethel Janet Fleming, and was of white Czech American heritage. In her youth, she was a strikingly beautiful woman with alluring facial features, curly hair, and a charming smile.
Marilyn’s father, Raymond Albert, was born in Nemocnici, Chicago. Her mother, Ethel Kroc, was an actress who wed her father in the early 1900s. Before delving into the renowned fast-food franchise, her father worked as a salesman.
Her mother was born in Ohio, USA. Like Ray, she attended ‘Lincoln School.’ They met in high school and became romantically involved. The couple married in 1922, when Ray was 21 and Ethel was in her thirties, a dozen years his senior. Before marrying Ray, Ethel had been previously married and had no children from her first marriage.
Although Marilyn’s father’s renown is linked to the establishment of McDonald’s, he was neither the creator nor the founder. Information about Marilyn’s business life is not as publicized as her personal life.
Marilyn’s father established McDonald’s in partnership with his brothers. He was a developer in the corporation franchising program for McDonald’s.
Marilyn’s mother, Ethel, was best known for her roles in films such as Love Insurance, The Kiss, and The Wonderful Thing. She appeared in approximately 16 films before marrying Ray, launching her career. After marrying Ray, Ethel abruptly ceased working in films for reasons that remain unconfirmed.
There is scant information about her married life, apart from her husband’s name. She was married twice, first to Sylvester Nordly Nelson on April 27th, 1949. After marrying James W. Marilyn in the 1960s, she changed her surname to Barg. She remained with Barg until her death, and there are no records of her having had any children.
Marilyn Kroc Barg was known for being the daughter of a renowned businessman. After marrying Marilyn’s mother, Raymond married two other women. According to reports, Ethel never remarried after they split.
Marilyn had been estranged from her father for decades before he passed away at the age of 81. She died in 1973 at the age of 48, after battling diabetes, which ultimately claimed her life.
Marilyn Kroc Barg was laid to rest in Memorial Park Cemetery in her hometown.