Who Is Jon Eicholtz? Architect, Real Estate Developer, and Barbara Eden’s Husband

Jon Eicholtz may not be a household name like his wife Barbara Eden, but his influence in architecture, real estate development, and philanthropy is considerable. Over many decades, Jon has built a career that is marked by steady success, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference beyond just business. Known to the public mostly as Barbara Eden’s husband, Jon’s story goes much deeper than that. He has quietly shaped skylines across the United States, developed landmark buildings, and given generously to charitable causes.

This article takes a thorough look at Jon Eicholtz’s life—from his early years in Kansas to his professional achievements, his loving marriage, and his ongoing legacy.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Education

Born around 1938 or 1939 in Topeka, Kansas, Jon Eicholtz’s early life remains mostly private, but it’s clear that his passion for building and design started young. Growing up in the Midwest gave him a grounded perspective and a solid work ethic that would guide him throughout his career. He attended the University of Kansas, where he studied architectural engineering, graduating in 1962. This education provided the foundation he needed to succeed in a field that requires both creativity and technical skill. While details about his family and childhood aren’t widely shared, Jon’s focused path toward architecture shows that he was determined to build a meaningful career, one project at a time.

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How Old Is Jon Eicholtz?

Jon Eicholtz was born around 1938 or 1939, which means he is about 85 or 86 years old as of 2025. He has kept his exact birth date private, so the exact year is not confirmed. Despite his age, he remains active in his personal life and enjoys spending time with his wife, Barbara Eden.

Career in Architecture and Real Estate

Jon Eicholtz’s career spans over fifty years and is filled with accomplishments that reflect his talent and hard work. After college, he began working in Hawaii, where he spent nearly a decade learning to design and manage residential and commercial properties. This early period was essential for sharpening his skills in a unique environment with specific architectural challenges. In 1978, Jon joined Pankow Construction, a respected company where he played key roles in many large-scale projects.

One of his most notable achievements was managing the Commerce Tower project in Kansas City, a 30-story skyscraper that became a city landmark. Jon’s ability to balance innovation with practical needs made his work stand out, and over time, he helped shape buildings that transformed neighborhoods and skylines across the country. His dedication to precision and quality earned him respect and a lasting legacy in the industry.

Marriage and Personal Life

Jon Eicholtz’s personal life gained more public interest after he married Barbara Eden in 1991, but their story started a few years earlier in 1988. Their relationship wasn’t an instant love story; instead, it grew steadily with patience and understanding. Barbara was unsure about starting a new relationship, but Jon’s kindness and respectful nature won her over. They dated for about two years before marrying in a small, private ceremony at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco.

Despite Barbara’s fame, they preferred to keep their wedding intimate and meaningful. Their marriage has lasted over 30 years, supported by mutual respect, love, and a deep friendship. Barbara often says that their success lies in understanding and supporting each other’s interests, communicating openly, and enjoying each other’s company beyond romance.

Who Is Barbara Eden?

Barbara Eden is a celebrated American actress best known for her starring role as Jeannie in the classic TV sitcom I Dream of Jeannie, which made her a beloved figure in television history. With a career spanning over six decades, she has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and stage productions, earning praise for her talent and charm. Beyond her acting achievements, Barbara is admired for her warmth, resilience, and dedication to philanthropy. Despite her fame, she leads a private and grounded life, cherishing her family and long-lasting marriage to Jon Eicholtz.

Jon Eicholtz’s First Marriage Details

Before meeting Barbara, Jon was married once, but he keeps this part of his life private. What is known is that his first wife died from breast cancer, and Jon was a devoted caregiver during her illness. This difficult time revealed his loyalty, strength, and compassion—traits that define him not only as a husband but as a person. Though he rarely discusses this chapter publicly, it adds depth to our understanding of Jon’s character and the emotional resilience that has supported him throughout his life.

Does Jon Eicholtz Have Children?

There is no public information about Jon Eicholtz having any children. While he was married before, he has kept details about his first marriage and any children private. His current wife, Barbara Eden, had one son from a previous marriage, but Jon and Barbara do not have children together.

Philanthropic Work

Beyond architecture and real estate, Jon Eicholtz has shown a strong commitment to philanthropy, often working alongside Barbara Eden to support causes close to their hearts. They have focused on areas like education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. One remarkable contribution was their $300,000 donation to the University of Kansas to create a scholarship for acting students, helping young people pursue their dreams. Their charitable work tends to stay out of the public eye, but it speaks volumes about their shared belief that success is about giving back. Through these efforts, Jon and Barbara continue to make a positive impact beyond their own careers.

Current Life

Today, Jon Eicholtz and Barbara Eden live quietly in Beverly Hills, enjoying a peaceful life away from the media spotlight. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they adopted a Labradoodle named Bentley, who has brought joy and companionship. While Barbara remains somewhat active in public appearances, Jon prefers to keep his privacy and avoid the limelight. Together, they enjoy traveling, spending time with close friends, and supporting one another’s interests. Their life together reflects a balance of comfort, love, and mutual respect that has grown stronger with time.

Jon Eicholtz’s Lasting Impact

Jon Eicholtz’s legacy is built on more than just the buildings he helped design or the wealth he amassed. It includes his generosity, his strength as a husband, and his ability to quietly influence the world around him. His work has left a tangible mark on American cities, while his philanthropy continues to touch lives. His relationship with Barbara Eden adds a personal dimension to his story, showing how love and respect can endure over decades. Together, they demonstrate that success is not only about fame or fortune but also about kindness, dedication, and the positive impact one can have on others.

Net Worth and Financial Success

With a career built over decades in architecture, real estate development, and investments, Jon Eicholtz has accumulated an estimated net worth between $10 million and $20 million. His financial success is a result of careful work on high-profile construction projects and smart real estate deals. Importantly, much of this wealth was established before his marriage to Barbara Eden, highlighting his independent achievements. His financial stability has allowed him and Barbara to live comfortably and to support philanthropic endeavors without seeking public recognition. Jon’s story shows how dedication to one’s craft, combined with wise decisions, can lead to lasting financial security.

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