The Two Wives Of Warren Buffett: Inside The Billionaire’s Unconventional Marriage And $8.4 Billion Legacy

The world's most famous investor, Warren Buffett, is known for his simple lifestyle, his financial genius as the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, and his immense philanthropic pledges, but his personal life is arguably just as fascinating as his balance sheet. As of December 15, 2025, the 'Oracle of Omaha' is married to Astrid Menks, but the story of his marriage is a complex and deeply unconventional one involving his first wife, the late Susan Thompson Buffett. This unique domestic arrangement defined his life for nearly three decades and established one of the largest charitable foundations in the world. The true narrative of the women who supported and shaped the billionaire's life is a testament to trust, mutual respect, and a non-traditional approach to family.

The relationship dynamic between Warren Buffett, his first wife Susan, and his current wife Astrid is a rare look inside the private world of one of the world's wealthiest men. It’s a story of an enduring connection that transcended the traditional boundaries of marriage, ultimately creating a powerful family legacy that continues to impact global philanthropy and reproductive health care today.

Susan Thompson Buffett: Biography and Enduring Philanthropic Legacy

Susan Thompson Buffett was much more than Warren Buffett's first wife; she was a powerful activist, a talented singer, and the driving force behind the family's pivot toward massive philanthropy. Her influence on Warren’s life, particularly his commitment to giving away his fortune, cannot be overstated. Susan remained married to Warren Buffett until her death in 2004, despite living separately for over 25 years.

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Susan Thompson Buffett (1932–2004) Profile:

• Full Name: Susan Thompson Buffett (née Thompson)
• Born: June 15, 1932, in Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.
• Died: July 29, 2004 (aged 72), in Cody, Wyoming, U.S.
• Spouse: Warren Buffett (m. 1952; her death 2004)
• Children: Susan Alice Buffett (Susie), Howard Graham Buffett, and Peter Buffett.
• Career: Singer, Civil Rights Activist, Philanthropist, and a Director of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.
• Key Achievement: Founder of The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation.
• Net Worth at Death: Approximately $2.6 billion, largely from her shares in Berkshire Hathaway.

In 1977, Susan made the decision to move to San Francisco to pursue her singing career and focus on her own activism, leaving the family home in Omaha, Nebraska. Despite the physical separation, she and Warren never divorced. They remained close friends, spoke almost daily, and even traveled together.

This unconventional arrangement was not a secret. Susan was instrumental in asking her friend, Astrid Menks, to look after Warren, who was known to be emotionally dependent and focused almost entirely on investing. This unique dynamic—where Warren and Astrid lived together, but Warren and Susan remained legally married and deeply connected—lasted until Susan's death. She would famously send out Christmas cards signed "Warren, Susie, and Astrid."

The $8.4 Billion Legacy of The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation

Susan Buffett’s greatest impact comes from the charitable organization that bears her name. The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation (STBF) was established in 1964 and has become a philanthropic powerhouse, with a specific focus that reflects Susan’s passionate activism.

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The foundation is one of the largest private independent foundations in the United States, having granted billions of dollars. Its primary focus is on reproductive health care and family planning, including being a major funder of abortion rights and birth control initiatives globally.

As of recent reports, the foundation has donated an estimated $8.4 billion, primarily to these causes. This enormous commitment is a direct reflection of Susan's values and her influence on Warren’s philanthropic vision. Her legacy is continued today by their daughter, Susie Buffett, who helps guide the family's charitable efforts.

Astrid Menks: The Current Wife and Pillar of Support

Astrid Menks, a Latvian-American philanthropist and former cocktail waitress, is Warren Buffett's second and current wife. She met Warren in the 1970s through Susan, who was working as a singer at the time at a cocktail bar where Astrid was also employed.

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Astrid moved into the Buffett family home in Omaha in the late 1970s after Susan relocated to San Francisco. She took on the role of caring for the billionaire, providing the stable, supportive home life that the famously focused investor needed. Her presence ensured that Warren could continue his intense focus on his work at Berkshire Hathaway, knowing his domestic life was handled.

The quiet dedication of Astrid Menks is often credited with providing the stability that allowed Warren Buffett to become the 'Oracle of Omaha.' She is known for her low-key demeanor, avoiding the spotlight despite being married to one of the world’s most recognizable figures.

A Private Ceremony and Enduring Partnership

Two years after Susan Thompson Buffett’s death in 2004, Warren and Astrid finally formalized their relationship. They married on August 30, 2006, which was Warren's 76th birthday. The ceremony was a small, private affair, reflecting the couple's preference for simplicity over extravagance, a trait Warren is famous for.

Astrid Menks Buffett, despite the 16-year age gap with her husband, remains a constant fixture by his side. She is regularly seen accompanying him to major events, including the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, where she is a quiet but supportive presence. The relationship, which has spanned over four decades, is a testament to an enduring partnership built on a foundation of unique circumstances and deep, mutual affection.

The acceptance of this non-traditional family structure is highlighted by the close relationship Astrid maintained with Susan. The three individuals—Warren, Susan, and Astrid—managed to navigate a complex emotional landscape with a remarkable degree of maturity and friendship, ensuring the well-being of the family and the continuity of the Buffett legacy. The story of Warren Buffett's wives is a powerful reminder that the most successful partnerships often redefine the rules to suit their own unique needs.