Margie Willett, the first wife of legendary actor Dick Van Dyke, lived a life largely out of the spotlight. But her story is one of love, challenges, and resilience. So, who was this woman who captured the heart of one of America’s most beloved entertainers? Let’s dive into the fascinating life of Margie Willett, from her early days in Illinois to her decades-long marriage to a Hollywood icon.
Early Life and Meeting Dick Van Dyke
Margie Willett was born in 1927 in Danville, Illinois. She grew up in the same small town as Dick Van Dyke, and their paths would eventually cross in a way that would change both their lives forever.
In 1947, when Margie was about 20 years old, she met Dick Van Dyke. At the time, Dick was just starting out in his career and wasn’t the famous actor we know today. Margie was actually dating someone else when they first met – a high school football player with a neck “thicker than [Dick’s] entire body,” as Van Dyke humorously recalled in his memoir.
But there was something special between Margie and Dick. She ended up dumping her boyfriend to be with Van Dyke. And boy, did that make waves in their small town! The ex-boyfriend was so angry he’d yell outside Margie’s house, challenging Dick to come out and fight. But Dick, being the clever guy he was, always managed to slip out the back door unnoticed.
A Radio Show Wedding
After dating for about a year, Margie and Dick decided to get married. But there was one tiny problem – they were broke. Like, really broke. They couldn’t even afford a proper wedding. But fate had a plan for them.
In 1948, Margie and Dick got an unusual opportunity. A radio show called “Bride and Groom” offered to pay for their wedding and honeymoon if they agreed to get married on air. Can you imagine that? Exchanging your vows while millions of people listen in?
Well, that’s exactly what they did. On February 12, 1948, Margie Willett became Mrs. Dick Van Dyke in front of two microphones and a minister. About 15 million people tuned in to hear their wedding. Talk about a unique start to married life!
Early Struggles and Starting a Family
After their radio show wedding, Margie and Dick faced some tough times. They were so poor at one point that they actually lived in their car for a while. Can you imagine? A future Hollywood star and his wife, calling a car their home?
But things slowly started to look up. Dick’s career began to take off, and the couple was able to move into a duplex in Malibu. They were excited about starting a family, and Margie soon became pregnant with twins. Sadly, she suffered a miscarriage, which was a heartbreaking experience for both of them.
To make matters worse, while they were at the hospital dealing with the loss, their landlord evicted them for not paying rent. Talk about a double whammy! But Margie and Dick didn’t let these setbacks stop them. They kept pushing forward, supporting each other through the ups and downs.
Growing Family and Dick’s Rising Fame
Despite their early struggles, Margie and Dick went on to have four children together: Christian, Barry, Stacy, and Carrie Beth. As Dick’s career in entertainment began to take off, Margie focused on raising their growing family.
In the 1960s, Dick Van Dyke became a household name with “The Dick Van Dyke Show.” While he was becoming famous, Margie preferred to stay out of the spotlight. She was a private person who valued her family life over Hollywood glamour.
Here’s a quick look at their children:
| Child | Birth Year | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Christian | 1950 | Started as an actor, later became a lawyer |
| Barry | 1951 | Followed in his father’s footsteps as an actor |
| Stacy | 1955 | Former actress |
| Carrie Beth | 1961 | Married to Kevin McNally |
Margie was not only a mother but also became a grandmother. Her children went on to have their own families, expanding the Van Dyke clan.
Challenges in Marriage
While Margie and Dick’s marriage lasted for over three decades, it wasn’t without its challenges. Both of them struggled with addiction at different points in their lives. Dick battled alcoholism, while Margie became dependent on prescription drugs.
In a brave move, they both sought help for their addictions. They even checked into the same rehabilitation center at one point. This shared experience of overcoming addiction could have brought them closer, but other issues were brewing beneath the surface.
The Affair and Separation
In the mid-1970s, Dick Van Dyke began an affair with Michelle Triola, his agent’s secretary. For a while, he kept this relationship secret from Margie. But in 1976, overwhelmed with guilt, Dick confessed the affair to his wife.
This revelation led to their separation. However, they didn’t rush into a divorce right away. In fact, Margie and Dick remained legally married but separated for eight years before finally making their split official.
Divorce and Later Years
After 36 years of marriage, Margie and Dick’s divorce was finalized on May 4, 1984. It marked the end of a relationship that had weathered many storms but ultimately couldn’t survive the strain of infidelity and growing apart.
After the divorce, Margie chose to live a quiet life away from the public eye. She never remarried, focusing instead on her family and personal interests. Dick, on the other hand, continued his relationship with Michelle Triola until her death in 2009.
Margie’s Passing
Sadly, Margie Willett passed away in 2008 at the age of 81. She had been battling pancreatic cancer. Even though they had been divorced for many years, Dick Van Dyke was deeply affected by her death. He later said that with Margie’s passing, he felt like he had “lost a part of myself.”
Legacy and Impact
While Margie Willett may not have sought the spotlight herself, her influence on Dick Van Dyke’s life and career was significant. She was there from the very beginning, supporting him through the lean years and standing by his side as he rose to fame.
Margie was more than just “Dick Van Dyke’s first wife.” She was a mother, a grandmother, and a woman who faced life’s challenges with grace and resilience. Her story reminds us that behind every great man, there’s often a strong woman helping to shape his journey.
Remembering Margie Willett
Today, Margie Willett is remembered not for her fame or fortune, but for her role in one of Hollywood’s most enduring love stories. She and Dick Van Dyke shared a bond that lasted through poverty, success, addiction, and ultimately, separation.
While their marriage didn’t have a fairy tale ending, it produced four children and countless memories. Margie’s legacy lives on through her family and in the hearts of those who knew her.
In the end, Margie Willett’s story is one of an ordinary woman who lived an extraordinary life. From a small-town girl in Illinois to the wife of a Hollywood star, her journey was filled with love, laughter, challenges, and growth. And though she’s no longer with us, her impact on the Van Dyke family – and on the man who would become one of America’s most beloved entertainers – will never be forgotten.
