When we hear the name Harrison Ford, most of us think about iconic characters like Han Solo from Star Wars or Indiana Jones. But before Ford became a Hollywood legend, there was a woman who stood by him during his struggling years. Her name is Mary Marquardt.
Mary is not a public figure, but her story is inspiring in its way. She was Ford’s first wife, a mother of two, and a woman who built her career as a chef. Later in life, she faced serious health struggles but continued to show strength.
This blog will walk you through Mary’s life, her marriage to Harrison Ford, her career, her family, and her private life after divorce.
Early Life and Education
Mary Marquardt was born in the United States in 1945. She grew up in a typical middle-class family, away from the spotlight. From the beginning, she was creative and loved learning.
She attended Ripon College in Wisconsin. In 1967, she graduated with a degree in liberal arts. While in college, she was active in social life and participated in different events.
But the most important thing that happened during her time at Ripon College was meeting a young man named Harrison Ford.
Love Story with Harrison Ford
Mary and Harrison met at college and quickly grew close. At that time, Ford was not a famous actor. He was still trying to figure out what to do with his life.
They fell in love and got married in 1964, even before Mary graduated. Their relationship was full of young energy, dreams, and hope.
Mary supported Ford during his challenging early career. He worked as a carpenter while struggling to get acting roles. Unlike today, Harrison Ford was just another young man chasing Hollywood dreams back then. Mary believed in him, encouraged him, and stood beside him.
Family Life: Raising Two Sons
Mary and Harrison had two sons together:
- Benjamin Ford – born 22 September 1966
- Willard Ford – born 14 May 1969
Mary was a caring mother. She balanced her work while raising her children in Los Angeles.
Benjamin grew up to become a chef and today runs Ford’s Filling Station, a popular gastropub in Los Angeles. He also teaches cooking and works as a consultant. His love for food came directly from his mother, who passed her passion on to him.
Willard, on the other hand, went into business and fashion. He once owned a gym called Strong Sports Gym in Los Angeles and later started a clothing line.
Even though Mary and Harrison divorced, both parents stayed involved in their children’s lives.
Mary Marquardt’s Career as a Chef
While Harrison Ford was trying to build a Hollywood career, Mary was working hard on her dreams.
She first worked as an illustrator after graduation, but later followed her true passion – cooking. Mary trained as a chef and became successful in her profession.
She worked in different kitchens and became known for her creativity and skill. Cooking was not just a job for her; it was a passion. She continued her career for many years until health problems forced her to stop.
The Marriage Struggles and Divorce
By the late 1970s, Harrison Ford’s acting career finally took off. His role as Han Solo in Star Wars (1977) made him a global superstar. Suddenly, their quiet family life changed.
Fame brought stress into their marriage. Ford was away from home more often, surrounded by attention, and caught up in Hollywood life. Reports suggested that the relationship became strained because of Ford’s growing success and lifestyle changes.
After 15 years of marriage, they divorced in 1979. It was not easy for Mary, who had supported him during his struggling years, but she chose to live a quieter life after the separation.
Health Struggles: Battling Multiple Sclerosis
Years later, Mary was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This disease affects the nervous system, making it hard to move and sometimes causing pain and weakness.
By the early 2000s, her health had worsened, and she had to retire from her chef career in 2001. Eventually, she started using a wheelchair for mobility.
Despite her illness, Mary stayed strong. She even taught her son Benjamin how to cook when she could no longer do it herself. This gift shaped his career as a chef.
Her battle with MS made her a private but strong figure. Benjamin often talks about how his mother’s courage inspired him. He also works as an advocate for MS awareness in her honor.
Where is Mary Marquardt Now?
Unlike many celebrity ex-wives, Mary never tried to use Harrison Ford’s fame for publicity. She has always stayed private.
Today, Mary lives quietly in the United States. She is in her late 70s, close to 80, and spends her life away from the media. Very little is known about her current activities because she prefers peace over attention.
Interesting Facts About Mary Marquardt
- She was Harrison Ford’s first wife before he married Melissa Mathison and later Calista Flockhart.
- She helped Harrison Ford during his struggling acting years when he worked as a carpenter.
- She is the mother of two successful sons – Benjamin (chef) and Willard (entrepreneur).
- Mary worked as both an illustrator and a chef.
- She has been battling Multiple Sclerosis for many years, but continues to stay strong.
Legacy and Influence
Mary Marquardt may not be famous like her ex-husband, but her influence is evident. She raised two successful sons, inspired her family with her cooking skills, and showed resilience in the face of illness.
Her life reminds us that not all essential stories make it to the big screen. Some live quietly, with love, strength, and dedication.
Conclusion
Mary Marquardt’s life is a story of love, family, strength, and survival. She was there during Harrison Ford’s toughest years, raised two children, and built her career as a chef. Even after the divorce, she continued to live with dignity and courage.
Her battle with Multiple Sclerosis shows her resilience, while her influence on her children proves that her legacy continues.
Today, Mary lives a private life, away from cameras and headlines. She may not be a Hollywood star, but to her family and those who know her story, she is an inspiration.