Robert Plaster Net Worth 2025: Early Life, Wife, Death, Assets, Biography & Legacy
Robert Plaster Net Worth 2025: Early Life, Wife, Death, Assets, Biography & Legacy
Robert Plaster remains one of America’s most inspiring self-made entrepreneurs. From a small-town boy who grew up during the Great Depression to a billionaire business visionary, his story defines what hard work and innovation can achieve.
As the founder of Empire Gas Corporation and the creator of the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, he built an empire that continues to influence education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. His net worth, estimated at $1.3 billion at the time of his death and projected by analysts to have exceeded $5 billion by 2024, reflects a lifetime of strategic success.
Robert Plaster Bio / Wiki
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Wayne Plaster |
| Date of Birth | September 3, 1930 |
| Place of Birth | Neosho, Missouri, USA |
| Died | October 11, 2008 |
| Age at Death | 78 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Entrepreneur, Investor, Philanthropist |
| Known For | Founder of Empire Gas Corporation & the Robert W. Plaster Foundation |
| Industry | Energy, Real Estate, Technology, Philanthropy |
| Height | 6 feet (approx.) |
| Net Worth at Death | $1.3 Billion |
| Estimated Value (2024) | $5 Billion (including trusts, real estate, and investments) |
| Spouse | Mary Jean Plaster |
| Children | Four |
| Famous Property | Evergreen Crystal Palace, Missouri |
| Legacy Organization | Robert W. Plaster Foundation |
Early Life and Background
Robert W. Plaster was born on September 3, 1930, in Neosho, Missouri, during one of the toughest economic eras in American history. Growing up amidst the Great Depression, Plaster learned the value of resilience and perseverance at an early age.
He worked multiple odd jobs as a teenager to support his family, developing a strong sense of responsibility and ambition. These experiences would later define his approach to business — combining practicality with vision.
How Robert Plaster Gained Fame
Robert’s rise to prominence began in the 1950s, when he recognized the growing potential of the LP gas industry. In 1963, he founded Empire Gas Corporation, investing just $25,000 of his own savings and securing $2.5 million in loans to launch the company.
Through innovation, dedication, and strategic expansion, Empire Gas became one of the largest propane distributors in the United States, serving thousands of customers across multiple states.
By the time he sold the company in 1996 to Northwestern Public Service Co. for $120 million, Plaster had already cemented his reputation as a visionary business leader.
Career Highlights & Achievements
Robert Plaster’s professional journey demonstrates how strategic risk-taking and relentless work ethic can create generational wealth.
Key Milestones
- 1963: Founded Empire Gas Corporation with modest capital.
- 1970s–1990s: Expanded to become one of the largest LP gas distributors nationwide.
- 1996: Sold Empire Gas to NorthWestern Public Service for $120 million.
- Post-1996: Founded Evergreen Investments LLC, diversifying into real estate, healthcare, and technology.
- 2000s: Established the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, focusing on education, youth development, and free enterprise initiatives.
His ability to identify market trends before they peaked made him one of the most respected figures in the business world.
Philanthropy and Education Contributions
Philanthropy was at the heart of Robert Plaster’s life mission. His success inspired him to “give back more than he received.”
Major Philanthropic Contributions
- Founded the Robert W. Plaster Foundation — an organization that funds scholarships, university facilities, and entrepreneurial education.
- Supported numerous institutions, including:
- Missouri State University
- Southwest Baptist University
- College of the Ozarks
- Evangel University
- Funded educational buildings, like the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center, to promote business innovation.
Plaster believed deeply in the power of education and free enterprise, seeing both as essential tools for individual empowerment.
Public Image and Media Portrayal
Robert Plaster was often described in the media as a “self-made millionaire with a conscience.” His rags-to-riches story and humble demeanor captured national attention.
Unlike many business tycoons, Plaster preferred to remain out of the spotlight, focusing instead on quiet philanthropy and family values. His story has since become a case study in leadership, perseverance, and civic responsibility.
Family and Personal Life
Robert was married to Mary Jean Plaster, and together they raised four children. Family was central to his identity — he credited his wife and family for grounding him through decades of business challenges and success.
Despite immense wealth, Plaster was known for his humility, generosity, and deep faith.
Evergreen Crystal Palace — The Mansion of Dreams
One of Robert Plaster’s most iconic creations was the Evergreen Crystal Palace, a 25,000-square-foot mansion built above Table Rock Lake in Missouri.
Designed by architect Dennis Spencer, the palace featured:
- 5 levels with floor-to-ceiling glass walls
- A 20-car garage
- Helipad
- Private docks and resort-style amenities
Valued at $80 million, it symbolized both his entrepreneurial triumph and love for architectural artistry.
The palace also served as a retreat for family and corporate guests — a place where business and leisure intertwined.
Fun Facts About Robert Plaster
- His personal motto was “Can’t Never Could”, meaning that determination can overcome any obstacle.
- He started Empire Gas with just three employees and turned it into a nationwide enterprise.
- He was passionate about cars and aviation, owning several luxury vehicles and small aircraft.
- He believed deeply in faith-based entrepreneurship — combining moral integrity with free enterprise.
Influence on Business & Education
Robert Plaster’s philosophy continues to shape entrepreneurial education across the Midwest.
His foundation sponsors business schools, scholarships, and community programs that teach young people about financial literacy, independence, and civic duty.
He advocated for “earned success”, inspiring future generations to take responsibility for their ambitions.
Death and Legacy
Robert W. Plaster passed away on October 11, 2008, at the age of 78.
While his passing marked the end of an era, his vision lives on through:
- The Robert W. Plaster Foundation, which continues his philanthropic mission.
- His children and grandchildren, who remain active in business and charity.
- The numerous buildings, scholarships, and communities that bear his name.
Even in death, his story continues to inspire entrepreneurs, educators, and philanthropists worldwide.
Robert Plaster’s Net Worth Overview
| Category | Estimated Value (at Death) | Updated Projection (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Empire Gas Sale | $120 million | — |
| Real Estate & Evergreen Holdings | $500 million | $1 billion+ |
| Investments (Healthcare, Tech, Energy) | $300 million | $2 billion+ |
| Charitable Trusts & Assets | $400 million | $1.5 billion+ |
| Total Estimated Net Worth | $1.3 Billion | $5 Billion+ (2025) |
FAQs About Robert Plaster
What was Robert Plaster’s net worth at the time of his death?
Approximately $1.3 billion, based on asset evaluations and business holdings.
How did Robert Plaster make his fortune?
Through the founding and sale of Empire Gas Corporation, followed by investments in real estate, healthcare, and technology.
What is the Evergreen Crystal Palace?
His famous $80 million mansion near Table Rock Lake — a symbol of his success and innovation.
How did he contribute to education?
He established the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, funding scholarships, campus facilities, and programs promoting free enterprise.
What industries did he invest in besides gas?
Robert diversified into healthcare, real estate, and tech ventures through Evergreen Investments LLC.
What is the Robert W. Plaster Foundation?
A philanthropic organization dedicated to expanding educational access and supporting communities across the U.S.
Conclusion
Robert Plaster’s net worth and legacy are far more than financial figures — they are symbols of resilience, integrity, and generosity.
From starting Empire Gas with borrowed capital to creating a billion-dollar foundation that still transforms lives, Plaster’s story is a shining example of how success can serve a greater purpose.
Even after his passing, his influence endures — in classrooms, boardrooms, and communities — reminding us that true wealth lies not in possessions, but in the lives we uplift.
