Robert Plaster Net Worth 2025: Career, Education And Family
In 2025, Missouri businessman and philanthropist Robert Plaster would have garnered an estimated net worth of $5 billion. His entrepreneurial success and significant wealth were broadly recognized. A magnanimous philanthropist, Plaster made significant contributions to education and community development. His exceptional journey from meek beginnings to billionaire status serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
Who Is Robert Plaster?
Robert Plaster, a highly successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who died with an estimated net worth of $1.3 billion, left an unending mark on the financial world. Born in 1930, he founded and breathtakingly expanded Empire Gas Corporation.

A renowned philanthropist, he benevolently supported education and community initiatives. His legacy lives on through the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, which continues to fund a number of charitable causes. Plaster’s life personifies the evolutionary potential of entrepreneurial success directed for the benefit of society.
Robert Plaster Profile Summary
Facts | Details |
Full Name | Robert Plaster |
Profession | Businessman |
Age | 78 Years |
Date Of Birth | 1930 |
Date Of Death | 2008 |
Robert Plaster Wife | Mary Jean Plaster |
Robert Plaster Son | Stephen Plaster |
Nationality | American |
Net Worth | $1.3 Billion ( At the time of his death) |
Robert Plaster Early Life And Career
Robert Plaster’s remarkable success is indissolubly linked to his humble beginnings. Born in Neosho, Missouri on September 3, 1930, he rose from poverty during the Great Depression to gather considerable wealth, a testimony to his unwavering perseverance and tireless work ethic.

His early life struggles imbued in him a powerful drive, further sharpened by his mother’s “Can’t Never Could” philosophy, which stressed on positive thinking. He pursued higher education at Missouri Southern State University (formerly Joplin Junior College). In 1963, he founded Empire Gas Corporation, transforming a $25,000 investment and $2.5 million in loans into a leading US propane distribution company.
His business astuteness transcends beyond Empire Gas, with various investments contributing significantly to his wealth. This financial success was accompanied by substantial philanthropic contributions to education and community development, mirroring his dedication to social responsibility. Robert Plaster’s life exemplifies not only entrepreneurial accomplishments but also the complete importance of giving back.
How Much Is Robert Plaster Net Worth 2025?
Robert Plaster’s entrepreneurial acumen and sharp investments catapulted his net worth to 1.3 billion at the time of his death. This huge fortune roots from various sources, including significant holdings in the gas industry, primarily through his ownership of Empire Gas, the Midwest’s premier gas distributor.
Real estate and strategic technology investments in rapidly growing sectors like autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality further increased his wealth. His commitment to philanthropy, noteworthy in education and community development, reflects his business principles, though not a direct revenue stream.
Beyond Empire Gas, his chairmanship of Evergreen Investments LLC, a highly successful venture capital firm, highlights his diversified portfolio and strategic approach to wealth building. This multi sided approach across various sectors showcases Plaster’s consistent and successful career in wealth creation.
Robert Plaster Education
Robert Plaster’s unbreaking determination defined his academic journey. He succeeded in his local public schools, earning honors from teachers for his dedicated and curious nature. Despite financial hardship, he assiduously worked part-time to finance his higher education, securing a well-deserved scholarship to a reputable university.

There, he pursued a business administration degree, displaying a sharp interest in market dynamics and economic theory. His excellent academic performance earned him the respect of his peers and professors alike. His strong foundational education provided the knowledge and skills essential to his future success.
Robert Plaster Wife And Personal Life
Robert Plaster’s marriage to Mary Jean was crucial in his life, providing unwavering support as he built his business empire. Their son, Stephen, continues the family’s legacy. While Robert maintained a high public profile in business, his family life remained private.
Mary Jean’s loyal support substantially contributed to his outstanding career achievements, influencing his philanthropic work and community involvement. This dedication extended across his ventures, including Empire Gas Corporation and Mammoth Freight Systems.
Born in Neosho, Missouri, on September 3, 1930, Robert faced early hardship, losing his father and working from age ten to support his family. He attended Missouri Southern State University (then Joplin Junior College), beginning his career with a local automobile and farm equipment distributor. After four years as an IRS field agent, he joined a propane company in Lebanon, Missouri.
He and Mary Jean had one son, Stephen R. Plaster. Throughout his life, Plaster’s endless work ethic drove not only his business success but also his significant philanthropic contributions to southwest Missouri, shaping a legacy defined by both achievement and community service.
Robert Plaster Age, Height And Weight
Robert Plaster, who died at age 78, left behind a considerable financial legacy, though his height and weight are unlisted. His net worth was estimated at $1.3 billion at the time of his death, projected to reach $5 billion by 2025. This immense fortune was amassed through a lifetime of entrepreneurial success in the gas, real estate, and technology industries.
Comparison: Robert Plaster Net Worth Vs Other Entrepreneurs Net Worth
- Steve Houghton, Chairman and CEO of the Dallas-based private equity firm Houghton Capital, is a highly accomplished American businessman.
- Andrew Cartwright, a 38-year-old entrepreneur, has garnered a substantial fortune through various business ventures.
Conclusion
Robert Plaster’s journey from humble beginnings to significant wealth showcases the remarkable impact of perseverance and astute investment strategies. His diverse business ventures, encompassing a wide range of sectors, not only generated considerable fortune but also highlighted a deep commitment to philanthropy and community development.
His estate’s anticipated growth ensures a lasting legacy, further solidified by his family’s ongoing philanthropic work. Plaster’s life embodies diligence, resilience, and civic engagement, serving as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and philanthropists alike.
FAQs
What Happened To The Plaster Family Empire Gas?
Following the 1996 sale of Empire Gas, Mr. Plaster established Evergreen Investments, LLC, a diversified investment firm. He was a co-founder and active supporter of Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), serving on its executive board until his passing in 2008.
Who Built Evergreen Crystal Palace?
It was built in 1991 by Robert Plaster.