Ray Kroc

Raymond Albert Kroc (October 5, 1902 – January 14, 1984) was an American businessman who was instrumental in turning McDonald's into the most successful global fast food corporation by revenue. He purchased it from the McDonald Brothers in 1961, after several years as their franchising agent, and served as the leader of the company until his death. Kroc was born in Oak Park, Illinois, and worked a variety of jobs, including as a paper cup salesman and a musician, before eventually becoming a milkshake mixer salesman. In 1954, he visited a hamburger restaurant in San Bernardino, California, owned by Richard and Maurice McDonald. Kroc was impressed with the efficiency and speed of the restaurant's operations, and he convinced the brothers to allow him to franchise the concept. Under Kroc's leadership, McDonald's grew rapidly due to Kroc's focus on aggressive expansion, opening new restaurants across the United States and eventually internationally. Kroc became the owner of McDonald's Corporation in 1961 and is credited as its founder, due to his influence as a franchise agent and principal role in the company's expansion, despite not having founded the company. Kroc served as president of McDonald's from 1955 to 1968, as chairman of the board from 1968 to 1977, and as senior chairman from 1977 until his death in 1984. During his lifetime Kroc was an active supporter of numerous charitable organizations. He owned the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball from 1974 until his widow, Joan Kroc, sold the team in 1990.