Life, Marriage, and Legacy of Margie Willett, Dick Van Dyke’s First Wife
Margie Willett, an American woman of grace and resilience, was best known as the first wife of Dick Van Dyke, the legendary actor, comedian, and writer.
Margie Willett, an American woman of grace and resilience, was best known as the first wife of Dick Van Dyke, the legendary actor, comedian, and writer. While Margie didn’t seek the spotlight for herself, her life story was intertwined with the fame of one of Hollywood’s most beloved icons. The couple's marriage, spanning over three decades, was both a public and private journey, marked by love, challenges, and ultimately, an emotional end. Here’s an in-depth look at Margie Willett’s life, her relationship with Dick Van Dyke, and the lasting legacy she left behind.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Margie Willett |
| Gender | Female |
| Date of Birth | 1927 |
| Age at Death | 81 years old (at the time of her passing in 2008) |
| Place of Birth | Danville, Illinois, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Height | 5'4" (163 cm) |
| Weight | 121 pounds (55 kg) |
| Body Measurements | 34-32-36 inches (86-81-91 cm) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Ex-wife of Dick Van Dyke) |
| Ex-Husband | Dick Van Dyke (married 1948–1984) |
| Children | 4 (Stacy, Barry, Carrie Beth, Christian) |
Margie Willett’s Biography
Margie Willett was born in 1927 in Danville, Illinois, where she spent her early years away from the spotlight. Little is known about her life before meeting Dick Van Dyke, but it is clear that her upbringing was far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Her life took a dramatic turn when she met Dick, setting the stage for a love story that would span over three decades.
How Old Was Margie Willett?
Margie Willett lived to the age of 81. She passed away in 2008 after battling pancreatic cancer. Despite being the wife of one of Hollywood’s most famous figures, Margie kept a relatively low profile during her lifetime, with much of her personal history staying out of the public eye.
Why Was Margie Willett Famous?
Margie Willett’s fame primarily stemmed from her marriage to Dick Van Dyke, one of the most iconic entertainers of his generation. The couple married in 1948 and remained together for 36 years. While Margie never sought fame for herself, her marriage to Dick kept her in the public eye, especially as their relationship unfolded against the backdrop of Dick's rising career in television and film.
What Was Margie Willett’s Net Worth?
Margie Willett’s net worth is not publicly documented, but her ex-husband Dick Van Dyke has an estimated net worth of $50 million. It’s worth noting that while Margie was not a public figure in her own right, she certainly enjoyed the benefits of a high-profile marriage. After their divorce, Margie lived a more private life, away from the glitz of Hollywood.
How Did Margie Willett Meet Dick Van Dyke?
Margie and Dick Van Dyke’s story began in 1947 in Danville, Illinois, where they first met. Their love story moved quickly, with the couple marrying on February 12, 1948, in a radio broadcast show, Bride and Groom. The live broadcast included 15 million listeners, making their marriage an instant sensation. At the time, the couple was struggling financially, and the show’s producer even sponsored their honeymoon. Dick later shared this unique experience in interviews, remembering the day fondly.
Margie Willett’s Children
Margie and Dick Van Dyke had four children: two daughters, Stacy and Carrie Beth, and two sons, Barry and Christian. Their family was the cornerstone of their marriage, with all the children growing up in the public eye as their father’s career blossomed.
- Barry Van Dyke followed in his father's footsteps, becoming an actor. He starred in TV shows like Diagnosis Murder alongside Dick Van Dyke. Barry has been married to Mary Carey since 1974, and they have four children.
- Stacy Van Dyke was also involved in acting and appeared on shows such as Diagnosis Murder: Town Without Pity and The New Dick Van Dyke Show. She is married to Mike Breen, and they have a child named Ryan.
- Christian Van Dyke had a tragic loss, as his daughter Jessica passed away in 1987. He has been married to Caroline A. Heller and has two other children.
- Carrie Beth Van Dyke is married to Kevin McNally and has two children, rounding out the family’s circle of love and loss.
What Happened to Margie Willett?
Margie Willett passed away on October 30, 2008, at the age of 81, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Despite the years of separation from Dick, his love for Margie never diminished. He was devastated by her death, revealing in interviews that, despite being divorced, her passing felt like the loss of a part of himself.
Why Did Dick Van Dyke Leave His First Wife?
The end of Dick Van Dyke and Margie’s marriage came in 1984, after a tumultuous period marked by infidelity. Dick admitted to having an affair with Michelle Triola, his agent’s secretary, which eventually led to the couple’s separation. After eight years of separation, their divorce was finalized on May 4, 1984. Despite this, Dick has spoken of Margie with nothing but respect and affection, making it clear that their split was a painful chapter in his life.
Who Are Margie Willett’s Grandchildren?
Margie Willett’s family grew with the addition of more than ten grandchildren. Some of her well-known grandchildren include Shane, Wes, Carey, and Ryan. Her legacy lives on through her children and grandchildren, who continue to make their own mark in the world, just as Margie and Dick did during their time together.
Fast Facts About Margie Willett and Dick Van Dyke
- First Meeting: 1947, Danville, Illinois
- Marriage Duration: 36 years (1948–1984)
- Children: 4 (Stacy, Barry, Carrie Beth, and Christian)
- Marriage Broadcast: Their wedding was aired live on a radio show, Bride and Groom, reaching an audience of 15 million listeners.
- Cause of Death: Margie Willett passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2008.
- Dick Van Dyke’s New Relationships: After his divorce, Dick had a long relationship with Michelle Triola Marvin and later married makeup artist Arlene Silver in 2012.
Margie Willett’s life may not have been as publicly celebrated as her ex-husband's, but her impact on his life and legacy is undeniable. Their 36 years together shaped both of their journeys, and though their marriage ended in heartache, Margie’s influence is still remembered through her children and the memories of those who knew her.