Robert Plaster Net Worth: A Legacy of Wealth and Influence
Robert Plaster was a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist from Missouri, known for his impact in the energy sector and his lasting legacy in education and community development. Throughout his life, Plaster built an impressive business empire that grew through hard work, strategic decisions, and a commitment to philanthropy. Robert Plaster Net Worth has become a topic of significant interest, as his wealth not only reflected personal achievement but also benefited many through his charitable efforts.
Early Life and Foundation of Ambition
Robert Plaster was born in 1949 in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, into a working-class family. Growing up in the post-Great Depression era, he learned the value of perseverance and self-reliance from a young age. His mother’s phrase, “Can’t Never Could,” became a guiding principle for him, influencing his determined mindset throughout his business journey. From a modest beginning, Plaster showed a strong interest in business, a passion that would later lead to his entrepreneurial success.
Robert Plaster’s life, career, and net worth for clarity:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Plaster |
| Date of Birth | 1949 |
| Place of Birth | Uniontown, Pennsylvania |
| Date of Death | October 11, 2008 |
| Age at Death | 59 years |
| Primary Profession | Businessman, Entrepreneur |
| Major Business Venture | Empire Gas Corporation |
| Role After Sale of Empire Gas | Chairman of Evergreen Investments LLC |
| Net Worth at Death | $50 million – $200 million |
| Net Worth in 2024 | $500 million – $5 billion |
| Famous Asset | Evergreen Crystal Palace (28,000 sq ft) |
| Location of Estate | Branson West, Missouri |
| Sale Price of Estate | $80 million |
| Spouse | Mary Jean Plaster |
| Children | Four (including Stephen Plaster) |
| Philanthropic Focus | Education and entrepreneurship |
| Foundation Name | Robert W. Plaster Foundation |
| Notable Donations | College of the Ozarks, Southwest Baptist University |
| Major Facilities Named After Him | Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex, Plaster Free Enterprise Center |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Primary Source of Wealth | Energy (Propane Distribution) |
Educational Background and Business Development
Plaster’s educational journey began in Missouri, where he attended Joplin Junior College, now known as Missouri Southern State University. His focus was on business administration, and he developed critical business skills during his time there. The knowledge he acquired gave him the foundation to embark on his professional journey and establish a successful career in the propane distribution industry.
His commitment to education went beyond personal advancement. Over time, Plaster became a notable supporter of educational institutions, funding multiple facilities to improve access to learning and promote entrepreneurship.
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Robert’s Educational Background and Business Development:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Institution | Missouri Southern State University (formerly Joplin Junior College) |
| Field of Study | Business Administration |
| Impact of Education | Developed leadership and financial management skills essential for his entrepreneurial ventures |
| Early Business Inspiration | Influenced by his education, Plaster pursued entrepreneurship, which laid the groundwork for his later business success |
| Founding of Empire Gas | Established Empire Gas Corporation in 1963 with a small fleet of propane trucks |
| Expansion Strategy | Grew the company by acquiring smaller propane firms and entering new markets |
| Sale of Empire Gas | Sold to Northwestern Public Service Co. in 1996 for $120 million |
| Post-Sale Ventures | Became Chairman of Evergreen Investments LLC, focusing on real estate and technology |
| Philanthropic Focus | Supported universities, funding scholarships and facilities to promote education and free enterprise |
Career that Built Robert Plaster Net Worth
Robert Plaster Net Worth, rise to success began in 1963 when he founded Empire Gas Corporation, a propane distribution company. He started small, with only a few trucks, but his sharp business acumen enabled him to grow the company into one of the largest propane distributors in the Midwest. Plaster expanded the business by acquiring smaller companies, establishing Empire Gas as a key player in the energy sector.
The sale of Empire Gas in 1996 to Northwestern Public Service Co. for $120 million marked a significant milestone in his career, providing him with the capital to diversify his investments. Plaster also served as the chairman of Evergreen Investments LLC, a venture capital firm, which allowed him to invest in industries like technology and real estate. These ventures helped increase Robert Plaster Net Worth over the years.
His financial growth didn’t stop there. Plaster’s investments extended into healthcare and construction, further securing his position as a notable figure in business. His ability to adapt to changing markets and capitalize on profitable opportunities was central to his wealth accumulation.
Career that Built Robert Plaster Net Worth:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Founded | Empire Gas Corporation |
| Year of Establishment | 1963 |
| Initial Business Focus | Propane distribution with a small fleet of trucks |
| Growth Strategy | Acquired smaller propane companies to expand market share across the Midwest |
| Industry Leadership | Built one of the largest propane distributors in the U.S. |
| Major Business Milestone | Sold Empire Gas to Northwestern Public Service Co. for $120 million in 1996 |
| Post-Empire Gas Ventures | Established Evergreen Investments LLC, focusing on real estate and technology |
| Investment Focus | Venture capital investments in healthcare, real estate, and tech industries |
| Chairman Role | Served as Chairman of Evergreen Investments LLC |
| Philanthropic Engagement | Directed earnings toward charitable initiatives, including education |
| Legacy Investments | Continued growth of wealth through diverse investment portfolios post-sale |
| Robert Plaster Net Worth at Death | Estimated between $50 million and $200 million |
| Robert Plaster Net Worth in 2024 | Grew to an estimated range of $500 million to $5 billion |
Robert Plaster Net Worth: An Analysis
At the time of his death in 2008, Robert Plaster Net Worth was estimated between $50 million and $200 million. However, the value of his assets continued to grow posthumously through smart investments and business ventures managed by his family and foundation. In 2024, his estate is estimated to be worth between $500 million and $5 billion, reflecting the ongoing success of his ventures and investments.
| Year | Net Worth Estimate |
|---|---|
| At Death (2008) | $50 million – $200 million |
| 2024 Estimate | $500 million – $5 billion |
The significant growth in Robert Plaster Net Worth, showcases how the value of his investments, including real estate and venture capital, continued to rise over time.
Personal Life and Family
Robert Plaster was married to Mary Jean Plaster, and they had four children together, including Stephen Plaster, who now manages the family’s business interests. The Plaster family maintained a private life, focusing on managing their father’s legacy through business and philanthropy. After Robert’s passing, the family continued supporting the initiatives he cared about through the Robert W. Plaster Foundation.
Robert Plaster’s Family:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Spouse | Mary Jean Plaster |
| Number of Children | Four |
| Notable Child | Stephen Plaster |
| Role of Family | Supported Robert throughout his career and philanthropic efforts |
| Family’s Role After Death | Took responsibility for managing the family’s business ventures and the Robert W. Plaster Foundation |
| Philanthropic Focus | Family continues charitable initiatives started by Robert Plaster through the Robert W. Plaster Foundation |
| Privacy | The family continues charitable initiatives started by Robert Plaster through the Robert W. Plaster Foundation |
| Foundation’s Mission | Promotes education, community development, and entrepreneurship in line with Robert Plaster’s values |
Robert Estate and the Evergreen Crystal Palace
One of Robert Plaster Net Worth, most famous properties is the Evergreen Crystal Palace, a 28,000-square-foot glass mansion located in Branson West, Missouri. Built in the 1990s, this luxurious estate reflects Plaster’s success and vision. The house features state-of-the-art amenities, including a 20-car garage, a helipad, and breathtaking views of Table Rock Lake. Today, the Evergreen Crystal Palace is on the market, listed at $80 million.
Plaster’s home was not just a private residence but also served as a corporate retreat, embodying both personal comfort and business sophistication. This unique property remains a testament to his larger-than-life persona and strategic approach to business and lifestyle.
Robert Plaster’s Estate and the Evergreen Crystal Palace:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Name | Evergreen Crystal Palace |
| Location | Branson West, Missouri |
| Construction Year | 1990s |
| Size | 28,000 square feet |
| Design | Glass structure with luxurious, open-space architecture |
| Key Features | 20-car garage, helipad, scenic views of Table Rock Lake |
| Purpose | Served as both a private residence and a corporate retreat |
| Current Status | Listed for sale |
| Asking Price | $80 million |
| Symbolism | Reflects Robert Plaster’s business success and vision for luxury living |
| Use During Robert Plaster’s Lifetime | A place for business gatherings and personal leisure |
| Legacy of the Estate | Continues to attract attention as a unique architectural marvel in Missouri |
Philanthropy and the Robert W. Plaster Foundation
Beyond his financial achievements, Robert Plaster Net Worth also represents a legacy of giving. Plaster believed in the transformative power of education and made significant contributions to institutions across Missouri. His donations helped establish several facilities, including:
- Robert W. Plaster Sports Complex
- Plaster Student Union
- Robert Plaster Stadium
- Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center
The Robert W. Plaster Foundation was established to ensure that his philanthropic efforts would continue after his passing. The foundation focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, education, and community development, aligning with Plaster’s lifelong values.
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Physical Appearance
While detailed information about Robert Plaster Net Worth, physical appearance is limited, it is known that he was 6 feet tall (183 cm) and maintained an active lifestyle throughout his career. Plaster’s personal life was marked by humility and dedication to work. Although his public persona was focused on business, he remained deeply committed to his family and community.
Where Robert Plaster Lived
Robert Plaster’s primary residence was the Evergreen Crystal Palace in Branson West, Missouri. This impressive estate reflected his success and embodied the luxurious lifestyle he achieved through years of hard work. His choice to live in Missouri also reflects his deep ties to the region, where he made many of his business investments and philanthropic contributions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Robert Plaster Net Worth at the time of his death?
At the time of his death in 2008, Robert Plaster Net Worth was estimated between $50 million and $200 million.
How much is Robert Plaster Net Worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Robert Plaster Net Worth is estimated to be between $500 million and $5 billion.
What is the Evergreen Crystal Palace?
The Evergreen Crystal Palace is a 28,000-square-foot glass mansion owned by Robert Plaster, located in Branson West, Missouri. It is currently listed for $80 million.
Who manages Robert Plaster’s estate and foundation today?
Robert Plaster’s family, including his son Stephen Plaster, manages the family’s business ventures and the Robert W. Plaster Foundation.
Conclusion
Robert Plaster Net Worth tells the story of a man who built a business empire from modest beginnings and used his wealth to make a lasting impact on the community. His career exemplifies how entrepreneurship, when combined with strategic investments, can lead to immense financial success. However, his legacy extends beyond wealth. Through the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, his contributions to education and community development continue to benefit future generations.
From the creation of Empire Gas to the philanthropy that defined his later years, Robert Plaster’s life remains an inspiring example of hard work, resilience, and generosity.
