Top 20 Richest People In Wisconsin: The Definitive List

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Wisconsin, known for its cheese, beer, and beautiful landscapes, is also home to some incredibly wealthy individuals. While the state might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about billionaires, it boasts a number of residents who have amassed significant fortunes. Let's dive into the definitive list of the top 20 richest people in Wisconsin, exploring their backgrounds and how they made their fortunes.

The Titans of Wisconsin Wealth

Before we get to the list, it’s important to understand the sectors that contribute most to Wisconsin’s wealth. Manufacturing, retail, and technology are key players. Many of the individuals on this list have built their empires through shrewd business acumen and innovative strategies.

Top 20 Richest People in Wisconsin

Please note that net worth figures are estimates and may vary based on market conditions.

  1. John Menard Jr. Net Worth: Approximately $16.6 billion Source of Wealth: Menards. John Menard Jr. is the founder and CEO of Menards, a home improvement retail chain. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to customer service have made Menards a household name in the Midwest.

  2. Diane Hendricks Net Worth: Approximately $12.2 billion Source of Wealth: ABC Supply. Diane Hendricks chairs ABC Supply, one of the largest wholesale distributors of roofing, siding, and windows in the United States. Her leadership and business acumen have driven the company to incredible success.

  3. Herbert Kohler Jr. Family Net Worth: Approximately $8.4 billion Source of Wealth: Kohler Co.. The Kohler family's wealth stems from Kohler Co., a manufacturing company known for its plumbing products, furniture, and engines. Their commitment to quality and innovation has kept the company thriving for generations.

  4. Judy Faulkner Net Worth: Approximately $6.9 billion Source of Wealth: Epic Systems. Judy Faulkner is the founder of Epic Systems, a healthcare software company. Her vision and technological expertise have revolutionized the healthcare industry.

  5. James Cargill II Net Worth: Approximately $3.3 billion Source of Wealth: Cargill. As a descendant of the Cargill family, James Cargill II benefits from the massive agricultural and food conglomerate, Cargill.

  6. David Cargill Net Worth: Approximately $3.3 billion Source of Wealth: Cargill. Another member of the Cargill family, sharing in the wealth generated by the global corporation.

  7. Austin Cargill Net Worth: Approximately $3.3 billion Source of Wealth: Cargill. Continuing the legacy, Austin Cargill's wealth is also tied to the Cargill empire.

  8. Marianne Cargill Liebmann Net Worth: Approximately $3.3 billion Source of Wealth: Cargill. Marianne Cargill Liebmann is also a beneficiary of the Cargill company's success.

  9. Paul Bruener Net Worth: Approximately $1.4 billion Source of Wealth: Convenience Stores, Investments. Paul Bruener's wealth comes from a chain of convenience stores and strategic investments.

  10. Todd Wanek Net Worth: Approximately $1.3 billion Source of Wealth: Ashley Furniture Industries. Todd Wanek is the CEO of Ashley Furniture Industries, one of the largest furniture manufacturers in the world.

  11. Sachin Khajuria Net Worth: Approximately $1.2 billion Source of Wealth: Apax Partners. Sachin Khajuria made his fortune through his work at Apax Partners, a global private equity firm.

  12. Michael Shannon Net Worth: Approximately $1.1 billion Source of Wealth: KKR. Michael Shannon is a prominent figure at KKR, a leading global investment firm.

  13. Ted Kellner Net Worth: Approximately $950 million Source of Wealth: Fiduciary Management, Inc. Ted Kellner founded Fiduciary Management, Inc., a successful investment management firm.

  14. Ab Nicholas Net Worth: Approximately $900 million Source of Wealth: Nicholas Company, Inc. Ab Nicholas is the founder of Nicholas Company, Inc., an investment management firm.

  15. Sheldon Lubar Net Worth: Approximately $850 million Source of Wealth: Lubar & Co. Sheldon Lubar's wealth comes from Lubar & Co., a private investment firm.

  16. Marc Marotta Net Worth: Approximately $800 million Source of Wealth: Real Estate, Investments Marc Marotta has built his wealth through strategic real estate investments.

  17. Joe Zilber Net Worth: Approximately $750 million Source of Wealth: Real Estate Joe Zilber made his fortune in real estate development.

  18. John Bergstrom Net Worth: Approximately $700 million Source of Wealth: Bergstrom Automotive John Bergstrom is the CEO of Bergstrom Automotive, one of the largest auto dealers in Wisconsin.

  19. Gordy Boucher Net Worth: Approximately $650 million Source of Wealth: Boucher Automotive Group Gordy Boucher's wealth is derived from the Boucher Automotive Group.

  20. Andrew Ziegler Net Worth: Approximately $600 million Source of Wealth: Artisan Partners Andrew Ziegler is a co-founder of Artisan Partners, an investment management firm.

Key Takeaways

  • Diversified Industries: The wealth in Wisconsin isn't concentrated in one sector; it's spread across retail, manufacturing, and technology.
  • Entrepreneurial Spirit: Many on this list are self-made, demonstrating the power of entrepreneurship and innovation.
  • Family Businesses: Several fortunes are rooted in family-owned businesses that have been passed down through generations.

Conclusion

The top 20 richest people in Wisconsin represent a diverse array of industries and entrepreneurial paths. Their stories offer insights into the dynamics of wealth creation and the importance of innovation, leadership, and strategic vision. Whether through retail giants, manufacturing prowess, or technological innovation, these individuals have left an indelible mark on the Wisconsin economy.

Disclaimer: Net worth figures are estimates based on publicly available information and market conditions as of [Insert Current Date].