Kroc, Joan (1928–2003)

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Kroc, Joan (1928–2003)

American philanthropist. Name variations: Joan Dobbins. Born Joan Beverly Mansfield, Aug 27, 1928, in St. Paul, Minnesota; died Oct 12, 2003, in Rancho Santa Fe, CA; the dau. of a railroad telegrapher and a concert violinist; m. and div.; became 2nd wife of Raymond Kroc (owner of McDonald's fast-food chain), Mar 8, 1969 (died 1984); children: Linda Kliber.

Avoided the spotlight, but made national headlines when she was identified as the anonymous donor of $15 million to aid the flood victims of Grand Forks, North Dakota (1997); donated millions to causes ranging from local theater to medical research; reportedly gave $33 million to institutions, including the Betty Ford Center and University of San Diego (1996); also contributed over $100 million to various Ronald McDonald charities and $80 million to the Salvation Army; in her will, bequeathed $200 million to National Public Radio (NPR).

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