Jon Huntsman, Sr.

$1.00 B

Ranked #1940 in World

About Jon Huntsman, Sr.

Jon Meade Huntsman Sr., a prominent American businessman and philanthropist, passed away in 2018 after a multifaceted career and extensive humanitarian efforts. Born into poverty in Idaho (1937), Huntsman's journey took him from humble beginnings through prestigious academic halls at Wharton and USC, leading to significant innovations in packaging, including the invention of the plastic egg carton and the "clamshell" container for McDonald's. With a career that saw the establishment and growth of Huntsman Corporation into a global chemical powerhouse, Huntsman's legacy extends beyond business through his philanthropy, notably founding the Huntsman Cancer Institute and contributing over $1.5 billion towards cancer research, education, and international aid. His awards, including the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy and the Othmer Gold Medal, celebrate a lifetime of achievement and generosity.

Born

June 21, 1937 in Blackfoot, Idaho, U.S.

Died

February 02, 2018 (aged 80)

Source Of Wealth

Chemicals

Industries

Manufacturing

Citizenship

United States

Education

Bachelor of Arts / Science, University of Pennsylvania Wharton School; Master of Business Administration, Marshall School of Business

Spouse

Karen Haight

Children

9, including Jon and Peter

Jon Meade Huntsman Sr. was born on October 21, 1937, in Blackfoot, Idaho, to a family facing financial struggles. In 1950, the family relocated to Palo Alto, California, where his father pursued graduate studies at Stanford University.

Jon attended Palo Alto High School, where he demonstrated leadership qualities and was elected student body president. His academic achievements earned him a Zellerbach scholarship to attend the prestigious Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated in 1959.

Jon Huntsman, Sr.: Family

In 1959, Jon married Karen Haight, and together they raised nine children. Their eldest son, Jon Jr., gained prominence as the former Governor of Utah and a candidate in the Republican Party presidential primaries in 2012. Their second eldest son, Peter, assumed the role of CEO of Huntsman Corporation in 2000 and later became its chairman in 2018.

Jon and Karen's family grew to include numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, reflecting their strong family values and commitment to nurturing close familial bonds.

Jon Huntsman, Sr.: Career Highlights

Jon Huntsman Sr.'s career journey began at Olson Brothers, Inc., an egg-producing company, where he rose to the position of vice president of Operations. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in developing the first plastic egg carton and establishing a connection with the polystyrene operations of the Dow Chemical Company.

In 1967, Jon became president of a joint venture between Olson Brothers, Inc., and Dow Chemical, known as the Dolco Packaging Corporation. However, in 1970, he left Dolco to establish the Huntsman Container Corporation alongside his brother and other partners.

The Huntsman Container Corporation expanded its operations by constructing plants in Fullerton, California, and Troy, Ohio. Jon's innovative spirit led to the creation of the iconic "clamshell" container for McDonald's Big Mac in 1974, revolutionizing the fast-food industry.

In 1976, Jon sold Huntsman Container Corporation to Keyes Fiber Company but continued to serve as its CEO for four more years, demonstrating his dedication to the company's success.

Jon Huntsman, Sr.: Companies

Jon Huntsman Sr.

founded Huntsman Chemical Company in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1982. Through strategic acquisitions in the polystyrene, styrene, and polypropylene industry, he transformed the company into a multibillion-dollar enterprise.

In 1994, the company underwent a name change to Huntsman Corporation, reflecting its expanding global presence. Jon's son, Peter R. Huntsman, assumed the roles of President and COO in 1996 and CEO in 2000, while Jon continued to serve as the company's Chairman.

Under Jon's leadership, Huntsman Corporation achieved remarkable growth and became publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange in 2005, solidifying its position as a prominent player in the chemical industry.

In 2007, Jon co-founded Huntsman Gay Global Capital (now known as HGGC) with former Bain Capital executives and other partners. This venture focused on investments in middle market companies, further diversifying Jon's business interests.

Jon Huntsman, Sr.: Major Achievements

Jon Huntsman Sr.'s entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen led to several major achievements throughout his career.

Development of the first plastic egg carton: Jon's innovation revolutionized the egg industry by introducing a more durable and convenient packaging solution.
Creation of the "clamshell" container: His design for McDonald's Big Mac container became an iconic symbol in the fast-food industry.
Growth of Huntsman Chemical Company: Jon transformed a small business into a multibillion-dollar global corporation, solidifying its position in the chemical industry.
Co-founding of Huntsman Gay Global Capital: Jon's involvement in this investment firm demonstrated his continued entrepreneurial drive.

Jon Huntsman, Sr.: Awards & Achievements

Jon Huntsman Sr.'s contributions to science, business, and philanthropy were widely recognized through numerous awards and honors.

Honorary doctorate degrees: Jon received thirteen honorary doctorate degrees from various universities, acknowledging his impact on academia and society.
Othmer Gold Medal: In 2004, he was bestowed with the prestigious Othmer Gold Medal, a testament to his scientific achievements.
Leadership Award for Lifetime Achievement: The Chemical Marketing and Economics (CM&E) group honored Jon with this award in 2013, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the industry.

Bower Award: The Franklin Institute presented Jon with the Bower Award in 2015, further solidifying his scientific legacy.
Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy Award: Jon's philanthropic efforts were recognized with this prestigious award in 2015, highlighting his dedication to giving back to society.

Jon Huntsman, Sr.: Personal Life & Legacy

Jon Huntsman Sr. led a fulfilling personal life, married to his wife Karen for over 58 years. Together, they raised nine children and cherished the love and support of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jon's legacy extends beyond his business achievements. He was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), actively serving in various leadership positions. His commitment to faith and community service left a lasting impact on those around him.

Jon's involvement in politics included serving as chairman of the Western States Republican Leaders in 1977 and the Republican Party of Utah national committeeman from 1976 to 1980. He also played a significant role in presidential campaigns, serving as chairman for Utah in Ronald Reagan's presidential campaign in 1984 and George H. W. Bush's campaigns in 1988 and 1992.

Jon's philanthropic endeavors were widely recognized, with his contributions exceeding $1.5 billion. His focus on cancer research, education, and aid to Armenia reflected his deep commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Jon Huntsman, Sr.: Trivia

Jon Huntsman Sr. was a cancer survivor, having overcome the disease four times.
He was an avid skier and enjoyed spending time in the mountains with his family.
Jon had a passion for music and played the piano and guitar.
He was a strong advocate for education and served on the boards of several universities.
Jon Huntsman Sr. was known for his generosity and commitment to helping others, leaving a lasting legacy of philanthropy and service.

Wealth History

Timeline

1937

Jon Meade Huntsman Sr. was born in Blackfoot, Idaho.

1950

Moved to Palo Alto, California, where his father pursued graduate studies at Stanford University.

1959

Received a Zellerbach scholarship to attend the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, graduating in the same year. Married Karen Haight and served in the U.S. Navy for two years.

1966

Earned an MBA from the University of Southern California's Marshall School of Business.

1967

Became president of a joint venture between Olson Brothers, Inc., and Dow Chemical, the Dolco Packaging Corporation.

1970

Left Dolco to form the Huntsman Container Corporation with his brother and others.

1974

Created the "clamshell" container for McDonald's Big Mac.

1976

Sold Huntsman Container Corporation to Keyes Fiber Company and continued as CEO for four more years.

1982

Founded Huntsman Chemical Company in Salt Lake City, Utah.

1984

Served as chairman for Utah in Ronald Reagan's presidential campaign.

1988

Ran for Utah Governor but dropped out and endorsed the incumbent governor. His son, Jon Huntsman Jr., was born.

1992

Served as chairman for Utah in George H. W. Bush's presidential campaign.

1993

Established the Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) at the University of Utah with his wife.

1994

Renamed the company Huntsman Corporation.

1996

His son, Peter R. Huntsman, became President and COO of Huntsman Corporation.

2000

His son, Peter R. Huntsman, became CEO of Huntsman Corporation. Jon Huntsman Sr. continued as Chairman of the company.

2004

Awarded the Othmer Gold Medal.

2005

Huntsman Corporation became publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

2007

Co-founded Huntsman Gay Global Capital (now known as HGGC) with former Bain Capital executives and others.

2012

His eldest son, Jon Jr., was a candidate in the Republican Party presidential primaries.

2013

Received the Leadership Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Chemical Marketing and Economics (CM&E) group. Donated $120 million to HCI for a new research building dedicated to children's cancer.

2015

Received the Bower Award from the Franklin Institute. Received the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy Award.

2018

His second eldest son, Peter, took over as chairman of Huntsman Corporation. Jon Meade Huntsman Sr. passed away at his home in Salt Lake City on February 2.

Jon Huntsman, Sr. : FAQs

What is Jon Huntsman, Sr.'s net worth?

As of 2017, Jon Huntsman, Sr.'s net worth was $1.00 billion.

What are Jon Huntsman, Sr.'s main sources of wealth?

Jon Huntsman, Sr.'s main source of income comes from Chemicals.

In which industry does Jon Huntsman, Sr. primarily operate?

Jon Huntsman, Sr. is primarily involved in the Manufacturing industry.

What is Jon Huntsman, Sr. educational background?

Jon Huntsman, Sr. holds a Bachelor of Arts / Science from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School and a Master of Business Administration from Marshall School of Business.

Is Jon Huntsman, Sr. dead?

Yes, Jon Huntsman, Sr. died on February 02, 2018 (aged 80).

How many children does Jon Huntsman, Sr. have?

Jon Huntsman, Sr. has 9 children.

Who was Jon Meade Huntsman Sr. and what was his major contribution to business?

Jon Meade Huntsman Sr. (1937-2018) was an American businessman and philanthropist, known for founding Huntsman Corporation, a multibillion-dollar chemical company recognized for inventing the first plastic egg carton and creating the 'clamshell' container for McDonald's Big Mac.

How did Jon Huntsman Sr. contribute to cancer research and education?

Jon Huntsman Sr. dedicated over $1.5 billion to humanitarian causes, notably founding the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah and donating more than $656 million to cancer research and education, along with significant contributions to various educational institutions.

What recognition did Jon Huntsman Sr. receive for his philanthropy?

For his extensive philanthropic efforts, Jon Huntsman Sr. was honored with several awards, including the Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy Award in 2015, recognizing his contributions to cancer research, education, and humanitarian aid.

What roles did Jon Huntsman Sr. serve within the LDS Church and politics?

Jon Huntsman Sr. was deeply involved in the LDS Church as an area seventy, stake president, and in various presidential campaigns, demonstrating his commitment to both his faith and political endeavors throughout his life.