Jon Eicholtz is a highly accomplished American architect and real estate developer who is best known to the public as the husband of actress Barbara Eden, the star of I Dream of Jeannie. Born in Topeka, Kansas, around 1938 or 1939, he built a successful career in architectural engineering and real estate development that spanned over five decades. While his wife found fame in Hollywood, Jon chose a quieter path, working behind the scenes on major construction projects across the United States. The couple married in 1991 and have been together for more than three decades, making their relationship one of the most enduring in show business.
Jon Eicholtz Biography
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Jon T. Eicholtz |
| Born | Around 1938–1939 |
| Birthplace | Topeka, Kansas, USA |
| Age | Approximately 87–88 years old (as of 2026) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | University of Kansas – B.S. in Architectural Engineering (1962) |
| Occupation | Architect, Architectural Engineer, Real Estate Developer |
| Known For | Husband of actress Barbara Eden; major construction projects |
| Spouse | Barbara Eden (married 1991–present) |
| Previous Marriage | First wife passed away from cancer (name not widely public) |
| Children | One son from his previous marriage (private); stepson Matthew Ansara (Barbara Eden’s son, died in 2001) |
| Residence | Beverly Hills, California, USA |
| Estimated Net Worth | $10 million – $20 million |
| Major Projects | Sheraton Waikiki, Commerce Tower, 10560 Wilshire, Catalina Landing |
| Career Highlights | Project manager for the Sheraton Waikiki; worked with Pankow; president/CEO of Pacific Construction Company |
| Philanthropy | Co-founded the Eicholtz-Eden Acting Scholarship at the University of Kansas |
| Personal Style | Private, low-profile, avoids the Hollywood spotlight |
| Interesting Fact | Met Barbara Eden on a blind date in 1989 |
Early Life and Background
Jon Truesdale Eicholtz grew up in Topeka, Kansas, a city that shaped his practical and disciplined approach to life. Born around 1938 or 1939, he was drawn to construction and design from a young age, fascinated by blueprints and the process of turning raw materials into functional buildings. Not much is publicly known about his parents or childhood, but it is believed he was an only child. His Midwestern upbringing instilled in him values of humility, hard work, and long-term thinking. These early lessons would later define his professional reputation as a calm, methodical, and deeply committed professional who preferred substance over recognition.
Education and Architectural Engineering Career
Jon Eicholtz earned a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from the University of Kansas in 1962. This five-year program gave him the technical expertise and creative vision that would form the bedrock of his entire career. After graduating, he began working in construction management, a field that allowed him to combine his engineering knowledge with hands-on project leadership. His education at KU was not just about learning how to build structures; it gave him a foundation for his life, as he later explained when making a major gift to the university. That degree opened doors to projects across the country and set him on a path to becoming a respected figure in architectural engineering.
Career in Construction and Real Estate
Jon Eicholtz built a long and successful career in construction management and real estate development. After earning his degree, he worked on projects in major cities including New York City, Dallas, New Orleans, Honolulu, and Los Angeles. Early in his career, he served as project manager for the construction of Commerce Tower, a 30-story skyscraper that remains a prominent part of the Kansas City skyline. In Hawaii, he spent nearly a decade managing large-scale construction projects before joining the renowned Pankow organization in 1978. His career took him from building hotels to developing luxury condominiums, always with a focus on quality and innovation.
Major Projects and Professional Achievements
Jon Eicholtz’s career is marked by several landmark projects that showcase his engineering skill and project management expertise. His most recognized achievement is the Sheraton Waikiki, an 1,800-room convention hotel that was the largest in the world when it was completed in 1971. He collaborated with structural engineers to redesign the project, cutting costs by half while maintaining quality. The project was called “one of the most complex, if not one of the largest slipforming jobs in the world” by ENR magazine. Later, he worked on 10560 Wilshire, a 22-story luxury condominium in Los Angeles, and Catalina Landing, a 740,000-square-foot waterfront development in Long Beach.
Jon Eicholtz and Barbara Eden’s Relationship
Jon Eicholtz and Barbara Eden’s love story began with a blind date in 1989. Eden was initially unsure whether she would see him again after that first meeting, but fate brought them back together. What made their connection even more meaningful was a conversation Eden had with her doctor, who had also treated Jon’s late wife during her battle with breast cancer. The doctor told Eden how Jon had cared for his dying wife with extraordinary devotion, washing her hair and bringing her meals every day. That revelation showed Eden the kind of man Jon truly was, and their relationship grew into a deep and lasting partnership.
Who is Barbara Eden?
Barbara Eden is an American actress and singer best known for starring as the title character in the classic sitcom I Dream of Jeannie from 1965 to 1970. Born Barbara Jean Morehead on August 23, 1931, in Tucson, Arizona, she began her career as a singer and model before moving into television and film, appearing opposite Elvis Presley in Flaming Star (1960) and starring in Harper Valley PTA (1978). She has been married to architect Jon Eicholtz since 1991, and the couple lives quietly in Beverly Hills; at 94, she remains active on social media and recently shared a festive Easter photo with her husband that delighted fans.
Marriage to Barbara Eden in 1991
Jon Eicholtz and Barbara Eden married on January 5, 1991, in a small ceremony at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. About 35 guests attended the wedding, and a reception was held at the Fairmont Hotel. This was Eden’s third marriage and Jon’s second; he was a widower at the time. The couple planned to return to Eden’s Beverly Hills home and take a longer honeymoon later. More than three decades later, their marriage remains strong. Eden has said, “We’re just happy to be together. We really enjoy each other”. Their enduring bond is a testament to the quiet strength of their relationship.
Jon Eicholtz’s Previous Marriage
Before marrying Barbara Eden, Jon Eicholtz was married to his first wife, who sadly passed away from cancer. He was a widower when he met Eden, and the experience of losing his wife shaped him in profound ways. Eden learned from her doctor that Jon had been a devoted caregiver during his late wife’s illness, staying by her side until the very end. That level of commitment and compassion was something Eden deeply admired. Jon also had a son from his previous marriage, though details about his first family remain private. His first wife’s passing left a lasting impact on him and helped define the kind of partner he would become.
Family Life and Children
Jon Eicholtz and Barbara Eden do not share any children together. However, Eden has a son, Matthew Ansara, from her first marriage to actor Michael Ansara. Jon also has a son from his previous marriage. The couple built a blended family life together, supporting each other through both joyful and difficult times. They have resided in the Benedict Canyon area of Beverly Hills, California, in a home that has been their sanctuary away from the public eye. Despite the challenges that come with fame and family, Jon and Eden have created a stable and loving home for themselves.
His Relationship With Stepson Matthew Ansara
Jon Eicholtz became a stepfather to Barbara Eden’s son, Matthew Ansara, when he married Eden in 1991. Matthew was Eden’s only child, born in 1965 from her marriage to Michael Ansara. Tragically, Matthew struggled with substance abuse and died from a heroin overdose in June 2001 at the age of 35. Jon was by Eden’s side during this devastating time, providing the emotional support she needed to cope with the loss of her son. His presence and strength helped Eden navigate one of the darkest periods of her life, and their bond grew even stronger through that shared grief.
Philanthropy and Acting Scholarship
In 2014, Jon Eicholtz and Barbara Eden made a generous $300,000 gift to the University of Kansas to establish the Jon T. Eicholtz and Barbara Eden Acting Scholarship. The scholarship provides a full-cost undergraduate award for students who plan to become professional actors in the KU Department of Theatre. Jon said he wanted to give back to the university that gave him the foundation for his life, and he also wanted the gift to be meaningful to Barbara and reflect her career. The scholarship is renewable and is awarded each year to a talented student, helping generations of aspiring actors pursue their dreams.
Net Worth and Sources of Income
Jon Eicholtz’s estimated net worth is between $10 million and $20 million. His wealth comes primarily from his decades of work as an architect and real estate developer, not from his wife’s celebrity status. He built his fortune through smart real estate investments, high-quality project management, and involvement in major commercial developments across the United States. Over his 50-year career, he worked on landmark projects like the Sheraton Waikiki and Commerce Tower, which helped him accumulate substantial wealth. His semi-retired status means he continues to benefit from his investments while enjoying a comfortable life in Beverly Hills with Barbara Eden.
Life Away From Hollywood
Despite being married to a Hollywood star, Jon Eicholtz has always lived a life away from the spotlight. He has spent the decades since their marriage allowing his wife to shine in front of the camera while he focused on his own career in real estate and construction. Even after retiring, he has remained grounded in his Midwestern values, never forgetting where he came from. The couple enjoys a quiet life together in their Beverly Hills home, traveling and spending time with each other. Jon prefers substance over recognition and has built a legacy that goes far beyond the Hollywood red carpets.
Jon Eicholtz’s Life Today
Today, Jon Eicholtz is approximately 86 or 87 years old and lives in Beverly Hills, California, with his wife Barbara Eden. The couple continues to enjoy their life together, attending occasional public events and sharing moments on social media. In April 2026, Eden posted an Easter photo with Jon, and fans noted how happy and youthful they both looked. Eden has described their life as simply being happy to be together and enjoying each other’s company. While Jon has faced some health challenges in recent years, their bond remains strong, and they continue to support each other through every stage of life.
Interesting Facts About Jon Eicholtz
- He was born in Topeka, Kansas, around 1938 or 1939 and is approximately 86–87 years old.
- He earned a degree in architectural engineering from the University of Kansas in 1962.
- He managed the construction of the Sheraton Waikiki, the largest convention hotel in the world when it was completed in 1971.
- He met Barbara Eden on a blind date in 1989 and married her in 1991.
- He was a widower before marrying Eden; his first wife passed away from cancer.
- He and Eden donated $300,000 to the University of Kansas to create an acting scholarship.
- His estimated net worth is between $10 million and $20 million.
- He prefers a quiet life away from Hollywood and has never sought fame for himself.
Conclusion
Jon Eicholtz is a man who built his own legacy through hard work, skill, and quiet determination. While the world knows him primarily as Barbara Eden’s husband, his story is one of professional achievement, philanthropy, and enduring love. From managing the construction of the world’s largest convention hotel to supporting his wife through the loss of her son, Jon has shown what it means to be a devoted partner and a respected professional. His marriage to Barbara Eden, now spanning more than three decades, stands as a testament to the power of shared values and mutual respect. Jon Eicholtz may not seek the spotlight, but his life is a remarkable example of building a meaningful legacy both in business and in love.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Jon Eicholtz?
Jon Eicholtz was born around 1938 or 1939, which makes him approximately 86 to 87 years old in 2026. Recent reports from April 2026 describe him as 86 years old. He was born in Topeka, Kansas, and celebrated his birthday on August 22. Despite his age, he remains active and recently appeared in a festive Easter photo with his wife, Barbara Eden.
Is Barbara Eden married right now?
Yes, Barbara Eden is currently married to Jon Eicholtz. The couple tied the knot on January 5, 1991, and have been together for more than three decades. Recent photos from Easter 2026 show the couple celebrating together, and sources confirm she enjoys a quiet life with her husband and their dog, Bentley. Their enduring marriage is often cited as one of the most stable in Hollywood.
Is Barbara Eden a descendant of Benjamin Franklin?
Yes, Barbara Eden is a descendant of Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. She was born Barbara Jean Morehead to Alice Mary (née Franklin) and Hubert Henry Morehead, and her maternal lineage traces back to Franklin. This interesting fact about her ancestry has been widely documented in biographies and is often mentioned as one of her most surprising family connections.
How much is Jon Eicholtz worth?
Jon Eicholtz’s estimated net worth is around $5 million, according to sources. He accumulated this wealth through his long career as a real estate developer and architect, working on major projects across the United States. His wife Barbara Eden’s net worth is separately estimated at around $10 million from her decades-long entertainment career. Together, the couple maintains a comfortable life in their Beverly Hills home.
Does Barbara Eden have grandchildren?
Barbara Eden does not have any biological grandchildren. Her only child, Matthew Ansara, whom she shared with her second husband Michael Ansara, tragically passed away in 2001 at the age of 35 from a drug overdose. Since Matthew had no children, Eden has no grandchildren. Jon Eicholtz has a son from his previous marriage, but details about that side of the family remain private.
How does Barbara Eden look so good?
Barbara Eden credits her youthful appearance to a simple but consistent skincare routine. She washes her face every night with Cetaphil and uses Estée Lauder’s Repair Serum, a habit she has maintained since her teenage years. She also emphasizes never going to bed without washing her face and uses sunscreen daily. Beyond skincare, she stays active with exercise and maintains a balanced diet to look and feel her best at 94.
