Date of Birth: October 19, 1944
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: [Not Applicable]
Biography
Richard Kinder is an American businessman and the co-founder and executive chairman of Kinder Morgan Inc., one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America. Born and raised in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Kinder attended the University of Missouri, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1966 and a law degree in 1968. He began his career in the legal field but quickly transitioned into the energy sector. In the 1980s, Kinder joined Enron Corporation, where he eventually became the President and COO. However, in 1996, he left Enron and, along with his college friend William V. Morgan, founded Kinder Morgan. Under his leadership, the company grew exponentially, focusing on the ownership and operation of pipelines and terminals that transport natural gas, refined petroleum products, crude oil, carbon dioxide, and other products. Kinder is known for his straightforward management style and his focus on shareholder value. He has also been a significant philanthropist, contributing to various causes through the Kinder Foundation, which he founded with his wife Nancy.
5 Interesting Facts about Richard Kinder
1. Richard Kinder was named one of the “World’s Most Powerful People” by Forbes.
2. He is a notable philanthropist, having donated millions to education, parks, and urban green spaces through the Kinder Foundation.
3. Kinder Morgan owns an interest in or operates approximately 83,000 miles of pipelines and 147 terminals.
4. Kinder has been credited with pioneering the “master limited partnership” (MLP) business structure in the energy sector.
5. He has a reputation for a modest lifestyle despite his immense wealth, often driving a pickup truck and avoiding flashy displays of wealth.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Richard Kinder
1. “At Kinder Morgan, we believe in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
2. “Focus on the long term and the short term will take care of itself.”
3. “Success in business is not about how much money you make, but how much value you create.”
4. “The energy industry is the lifeblood of the American economy.”
5. “Philanthropy isn’t just about writing checks; it’s about making a lasting impact.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At his peak, Richard Kinder’s net worth was estimated to be around $7 billion.
Children
Richard Kinder has two children from his first marriage: a son, Michael Kinder, and a daughter, Elizabeth Kinder.
Relevant Links
1. [Kinder Morgan Official Website](https://www.kindermorgan.com/
2. [Forbes Profile on Richard Kinder](https://www.forbes.com/profile/richard-kinder/
3. [Kinder Foundation](https://kinderfoundation.org/
4. [Bloomberg Billionaires Index](https://www.bloomberg.com/billionaires/profiles/richard-d-kinder/
5. [University of Missouri Alumni Profile](https://mizzoumag.missouri.edu/2013/11/richard-kinder/
