Charles Donald Fegert was the second husband of famous actress Barbara Eden. Many people know Barbara Eden from “I Dream of Jeannie”. But not many know about Charles Donald Fegert. He was not a Hollywood star, but his life story is interesting. Charles was a successful businessman in Chicago advertising. His marriage to Barbara brought him into the public eye, but there was much more to his life.
Detailed Bio Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Donald Fegert |
| Nickname | Chuck |
| Birth Year | 1930 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Death | 2002 (Age 72) |
| Education | Loyola University (Graduated 1955) |
| Profession | Advertising Executive |
| Famous Position | Vice President of Advertising and Marketing |
| Company | Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Daily News |
| Marriage to Barbara Eden | September 3, 1977 |
| Divorce | 1982 (Married 5 years) |
| Children | 4 (Michael, Chip, Lisa, and one more) |
| Grandchildren | 7 |
| Net Worth | Around $2.5 million |
| Known For | Ex-husband of Barbara Eden, Advertising Career |
Early Life and Background
Charles Donald Fegert was born in 1930 in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up in a working-class family on the South Side of Chicago. His father worked as a steelworker. Growing up in this environment taught Charles important lessons about hard work and determination.
He attended South Shore High School and then went to Loyola University, graduating in 1955. This education helped him build a strong foundation for his future business career.
Building a Career in Advertising
Charles started as a newspaper ad salesman, selling advertising space to businesses. He was very good at his job and quickly moved up.
By 1969, Charles became advertising manager at the Chicago Sun-Times. He managed store and retail advertising. His skills led to bigger opportunities.
Charles became Vice President of Advertising and Marketing at both the Chicago Daily News and the Sun-Times. This important role showed how talented he was. He helped create advertising strategies that made the newspapers more successful.
Charles was also known as a great master of ceremonies. He hosted many events in Chicago and was famous for entertaining people. His charm made him popular in Chicago’s business circles.
Meeting Barbara Eden
In 1974, Charles met Barbara Eden while she was performing in Chicago. Even though he had never watched “I Dream of Jeannie“, he was attracted to her charm and beauty.
Charles showed his love through big romantic gestures. He sent her flowers twice every day and flew to see her more than 30 times during their dating period.
After three years of dating, Charles and Barbara married on September 3, 1977. Their wedding was a big event because Barbara was such a famous actress. They seemed like a perfect couple – a successful Chicago businessman and a beloved Hollywood star.
Life After Marriage
After their wedding, Charles and Barbara moved into a beautiful apartment in Chicago overlooking Lake Michigan. From the outside, their life looked perfect.
However, there were challenges. Barbara had to move from Los Angeles, and her son Matthew stayed with his father. This created stress for Barbara.
Behind the scenes, problems started. Barbara later shared that Charles began spending time with people who drank and used drugs. This put pressure on their relationship.
The marriage faced more difficulties over time, including domestic problems and substance abuse. After five years, Charles and Barbara divorced in 1982.
Barbara said she met Charles during a lonely time. She thought he was handsome, smart, and fun. But he was also insecure. Despite the difficulties, she recognized he was a talented businessman.
Family Life and Personal Side
Even though his marriage to Barbara Eden did not work out, Charles had a full family life. Before marrying Barbara, he had been married twice.
Charles had at least four children – two sons named Michael and Chip, a daughter named Lisa, and one more child. He was also a grandfather to seven grandchildren.
His daughter Lisa shared warm memories of her father. He loved singing songs, doing impressions, and making people laugh. When his grandchildren visited, he taught them silly songs. These memories show a loving father and grandfather.
Later Years and Death
After his divorce from Barbara Eden, Charles stepped away from the public spotlight. He continued working in advertising and explored new business opportunities, including real estate. He used his business skills to invest in properties in Chicago.
Charles remained active in Chicago’s business community. He mentored younger professionals starting their careers in advertising, sharing his knowledge and experience.
Charles Donald Fegert passed away peacefully in his sleep in 2002 at age 72 in Chicago. At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated at around $2.5 million, earned through his advertising career and business investments.
Conclusion
Charles Donald Fegert was more than just Barbara Eden’s ex-husband. He was a talented advertising executive who built a successful career at the Chicago Sun-Times. His journey from a working-class background to becoming Vice President of Advertising shows his hard work and determination. While his marriage to Barbara brought him fame, his real legacy lives on through his professional achievements and the loving memories shared by his children and grandchildren.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Charles Donald Fegert?
Charles Donald Fegert was an advertising executive at the Chicago Sun-Times and the former husband of actress Barbara Eden.
2. How long was Charles Fegert married to Barbara Eden?
Charles married Barbara Eden in 1977 and they divorced in 1982 after five years of marriage.
3. Did Charles Donald Fegert have children?
Yes, Charles had four children including sons Michael and Chip, and daughter Lisa. He had seven grandchildren.
4. What did Charles Fegert do for a living?
Charles worked in newspaper advertising and became Vice President of Advertising at the Chicago Sun-Times.
5. When did Charles Donald Fegert die?
Charles died in 2002 at age 72 in Chicago. His net worth was estimated at $2.5 million.
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