Robert Plaster Net Worth: Key Facts on Son, Wife, Family
Robert Plaster was a prominent American businessman and philanthropist whose contributions to education and entrepreneurship left a lasting legacy. He is best known for his success in the energy sector and his substantial charitable contributions throughout Missouri and the United States. Despite passing away in 2008, Robert Plaster’s name continues to live on through various institutions and organizations he supported. In this detailed biography, we will explore Robert Plaster Net Worth, key facts about his son, wife, family, and more.
Quick Bio: Robert Plaster Net Worth
| Name | Robert Wayne Plaster |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | September 3, 1930 |
| Birthplace | Joplin, Missouri, USA |
| Died | October 24, 2008 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Businessman, Philanthropist |
| Known For | Empire Gas Company, Philanthropy |
| Estimated Net Worth | $300 million (at peak) |
| Spouse | Married (name kept private) |
| Children | Yes (including son, Stephen Plaster) |
| Education | Southwest Missouri State University |
| Residence | Lebanon, Missouri |
Early Life and Background
Robert Wayne Plaster was born on September 3, 1930, in Joplin, Missouri. He grew up during the Great Depression, which shaped his work ethic, values, and eventual pursuit of financial independence. Raised in a modest family, Plaster had a humble beginning, working multiple jobs during his youth to support his family. These early experiences contributed to his strong character and desire to succeed in business.
Plaster’s family struggled financially, which gave him an early exposure to hardship. Despite these challenges, he maintained a positive attitude and a strong desire to improve his life circumstances. His early life is often cited as a key driver of his philanthropic mindset later in life, particularly when it came to helping others receive educational opportunities he had to fight for.
Age and Physical Appearance
At the time of his death in 2008, Robert Plaster was 78 years old. He was known for his calm demeanor, business attire, and commanding presence. While not much is publicly documented about his height or other specific physical features, photographs suggest that he carried himself with professionalism and grace—a trait reflected in his business dealings and philanthropic efforts.
Despite his wealth, he was never known for flaunting it. Instead, he preferred to maintain a more low-profile public appearance, often seen at charity events and community initiatives rather than celebrity galas or high-society gatherings.
Education
Education played a pivotal role in shaping Robert Plaster’s career and philanthropic legacy. He graduated from Southwest Missouri State University, now known as Missouri State University, where he studied business and accounting. His academic background laid the groundwork for his future ventures in the gas and energy industries.
Even though Plaster did not attend Ivy League schools or earn advanced degrees, he valued education immensely. In later years, he donated millions to schools, colleges, and universities, with many buildings and campuses bearing his name. He believed that education was a critical stepping stone to success, particularly for individuals from underprivileged backgrounds like himself.
His Father
Robert Plaster rarely spoke publicly about his father, but it’s known that he came from a working-class family. His father’s influence in instilling a hard work ethic in Robert is acknowledged in various biographical snippets and interviews with people close to the family.
Although detailed public records about his father remain sparse, Plaster often credited his parents with teaching him the value of persistence and honesty—two traits that shaped his business career and philanthropic life.
His Mother
Plaster’s mother was a significant figure in his early life. While her name and detailed biographical data have not been made public, she is often credited in personal stories and interviews as someone who encouraged him to pursue education and better his life.
The emotional support he received from his mother during financially difficult times was a key motivator for his future success. Like many Depression-era families, the Plasters endured tough times, but Robert often spoke about the warmth and strength of his home, largely due to his mother’s resilience.
Children
Robert Plaster had children, among them Stephen Plaster, who has carried on his father’s legacy in both business and philanthropy. Stephen Plaster is also a known figure in Missouri and has been involved in various ventures, including politics, real estate, and the automotive industry.
Stephen Plaster – Son of Robert Plaster
Stephen Plaster is perhaps the most well-known of Robert Plaster’s children. A businessman and philanthropist in his own right, Stephen made headlines in 2016 when he ran as a candidate for Missouri Governor. Though he did not win, his campaign reflected many of the values his father espoused—fiscal conservatism, community development, and support for education.
Stephen has also been active in continuing his father’s mission through the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting educational and civic initiatives.
Who Is Robert Plaster?
So, who is Robert Plaster really? In essence, he was more than just a wealthy businessman; he was a visionary and a compassionate leader who used his resources to impact lives positively. His entrepreneurial journey began after working as an accountant and tax advisor, which eventually led him to found Empire Gas Corporation in 1963.
Founder of Empire Gas Corporation
Robert Plaster’s major financial breakthrough came with the establishment of Empire Gas Corporation, which grew to become one of the largest propane distributors in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s. Under his leadership, Empire Gas reached national prominence and became a Fortune 500 company.
Despite facing legal and financial challenges in later years, including some controversy regarding company finances, Plaster’s reputation as a business pioneer in the gas industry remains respected.
Robert Plaster Net Worth
How Much Was Robert Plaster Worth?
Robert Plaster’s net worth at the height of his career was estimated to be around $300 million, largely accumulated through his company Empire Gas. His success in the propane industry allowed him to become one of the wealthiest individuals in Missouri during the late 20th century.
His wealth was not just hoarded but used generously in philanthropic endeavors. Plaster donated millions to educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and civic causes. Many universities and colleges across the Midwest, including Missouri Southern State University, College of the Ozarks, and Southwest Baptist University, have facilities named in his honor.
Posthumous Legacy and Foundation Wealth
After his death, his wealth and charitable mission continued through the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, which has assets in the tens of millions and continues to fund scholarships, building projects, and research grants.
Current Life of His Family
Though Robert Plaster passed away in 2008, his family continues to honor and build upon his legacy.
Stephen Plaster Today
Stephen Plaster remains active in business and philanthropy. He has held executive roles in various companies and continues to serve on the board of the Robert W. Plaster Foundation. Stephen is known for being more public-facing than his father and has been involved in political and community initiatives across Missouri.
Other Family Members
While less is known about Robert Plaster’s wife and other children, the family continues to reside primarily in Missouri and remains active in local civic and educational initiatives.
Philanthropic Work and Donations
Robert Plaster is perhaps most beloved not for his business acumen but for his charitable giving. His donations transformed campuses, provided scholarships, and built community centers.
Some of his most notable donations include:
- Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex – Missouri State University
- Plaster Hall – Pittsburg State University
- Plaster Center for Free Enterprise and Business Development – Missouri Southern State University
- Plaster School of Business – Southwest Baptist University
These gifts reflect his belief in “giving back” to the communities that helped shape him.
Conclusion
Robert Plaster was not just a wealthy businessman but a man of vision, compassion, and purpose. With humble beginnings, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to community and education, Plaster transformed his fortune into a force for good.
His net worth may have reached hundreds of millions, but his true wealth lay in the countless lives he touched through education, opportunity, and philanthropy. His family, particularly his son Stephen Plaster, continues to uphold and expand his legacy, ensuring that Robert Plaster’s impact will be felt for generations to come.
FAQ’s: Robert Plaster Net Worth
1. What was Robert Plaster’s net worth?
At his financial peak, Robert Plaster’s estimated net worth was around $300 million.
2. What was Robert Plaster known for?
He was known for founding Empire Gas Corporation and his extensive philanthropic contributions to educational institutions.
3. Who is Robert Plaster’s son?
His son is Stephen Plaster, a businessman and former gubernatorial candidate in Missouri.
4. Is the Robert Plaster Foundation still active?
Yes, the Robert W. Plaster Foundation is active and continues to support educational initiatives across the U.S.
5. Where is Robert Plaster buried?
He is buried in Missouri, where he spent most of his life and career.
6. Did Robert Plaster have a wife?
Yes, though her name and public appearances were limited, she was part of his close family life.
7. What schools did Robert Plaster donate to?
Some key institutions include Missouri State University, Southwest Baptist University, and College of the Ozarks.
8. What happened to Empire Gas?
Empire Gas went through several changes over the years, including legal disputes and restructuring, but its legacy is tied to Robert Plaster’s early success.
