Trivia

First invested into McDonald's at the age of 52.

He came up with the idea of franchising McDonald's.

Met Walt Disney while both were training to drive ambulances for the Red Cross during World War I; the War ended before they could be sent overseas. Years later, Kroc approached Disney about opening a McDonald's at Disneyland, but the deal fell through when Kroc rebuffed Disney's demand to increase the price of McDonald's French fries from 10 to 15 cents.

Made a deal with Maurice McDonald and Richard McDonald in 1954 to be the exclusive franchisee for their McDonald's restaurant. When Kroc learned that the McDonalds had made a deal with another man to open franchises, Kroc bought him out, and, in 1961, bought the McDonalds' name and rights to their "speedee service system" concept for $2 million cash.

His net worth was estimated at five-hundred million dollars at the time of his death.

Struggled with alcoholism for many years and joined AA late in life.

He was the son of Rosalia/Rose Mary (Hrach) and Alois "Louis" Kroc. His father was a Czech immigrant, from Horní Stupno. His mother was born in Illinois, of Czech descent.

Owner of the San Diego Padres (1974-1984); he made headlines when he publicly berated his team after a game.

Worked as a paper cup salesman, jazz musician, pianist and radio DJ before finding success in business.

Inducted into the American National Business Hall of Fame.

Older brother of Robert Kroc and Lorraine Kroc.