Ivana Trump, Dynamic Businesswoman and Donald Trump’s First Wife, Dies at 73: A Look Back at Her Remarkable Life and Enduring Legacy

The world mourned the loss of a truly extraordinary woman on Thursday, July 14, 2022, as Ivana Trump, the spirited Czech-American businesswoman and former President Donald Trump’s first wife, passed away at the age of 73. Her death was confirmed by her family, including her former husband, who shared heartfelt tributes to a woman who left an indelible mark on both the business world and the lives of those around her.

Initial reports from ABC News indicated that an ambulance was called to her New York City home due to cardiac arrest. However, as details emerged, New York City authorities began an investigation into the circumstances of her passing. ABC correspondent Aaron Katersky reported on July 14 that Ivana was found at the bottom of a staircase in her apartment.

Ivana Trump was found unconscious and unresponsive at her Manhattan home, according to police, who said there were no signs of a crime. The medical examiner’s office will determine the cause of her death at 73.

— Aaron Katersky (@AaronKatersky) July 14, 2022

Katersky further elaborated, “Ivana Trump was found unconscious and unresponsive at the bottom of a set of stairs in her apartment. The police are investigating whether she fell and, if so, whether the fall contributed in any way to her death. Medical examiner to determine.” While the official cause of death remained pending investigation, the news sent shockwaves through the public, prompting a flood of tributes celebrating her vibrant life.

Early Life, Ambition, and a Path to America

Born Ivana Marie Zelníčková in 1949 in Gottwaldov, Czechoslovakia (now Zlín, Czech Republic), Ivana’s early life was marked by discipline and a strong drive for success. She excelled in skiing, a sport that she pursued competitively, leading her to represent her country in various junior events. This athletic background instilled in her a resilience and tenacity that would define her later endeavors.

Before her celebrated marriage to Donald Trump, Ivana was married to Alfred Winklmayr from 1971 to 1973. It was her journey to Canada, where she worked as a ski instructor and model, that eventually brought her to New York City in the mid-1970s. It was there, during a fateful encounter at a restaurant, that she met the ambitious real estate developer, Donald Trump, forever altering the course of her life.

The Trump Era: A Power Couple and Business Acumen

Ivana and Donald Trump married in 1977, forming one of the most visible and influential power couples of the 1980s. Their union was not merely a social affair; Ivana quickly proved to be far more than just a trophy wife. With a keen business mind and an uncompromising work ethic, she became an indispensable executive within the burgeoning Trump Organization. She brought her distinctive flair and formidable management skills to various high-profile projects, playing a crucial role in shaping the Trump empire.

Her executive prowess was evident in her leadership roles. She was appointed Vice President of Interior Design for the Trump Organization, overseeing the iconic renovations of the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City and the construction of Trump Tower. Later, she served as CEO of Trump’s Castle Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, transforming it into a premier destination. She also notably managed the legendary Plaza Hotel, which Donald Trump acquired in 1988.

During a press conference regarding her appointment at the Plaza, Donald famously quipped, “My wife, Ivana, is a brilliant manager. I will pay her one dollar a year and all the dresses she can buy.” While delivered with characteristic showmanship, this remark underscored the significant responsibilities Ivana held. She brought her meticulous attention to detail and a touch of European elegance to the hotel, elevating its status and ensuring its profitability. Her influence was instrumental in establishing the Trump brand as synonymous with luxury and opulence during this era.

Beyond her business achievements, Ivana was a devoted mother to her three children with Donald Trump: Donald Jr., born in 1977; Ivanka, born in 1981; and Eric, born in 1984. She instilled in them a strong work ethic and a sense of pride, often recalling in interviews the balance she struck between her demanding career and her role as a parent. Her children have consistently spoken of her as a loving and inspiring figure in their lives.

The Public Split and a New Chapter

After more than a decade of marriage, Donald and Ivana Trump announced their separation in 1990, leading to a highly publicized and often contentious divorce that captivated media attention for years. The settlement, finalized in 1992, awarded Ivana $14 million, a mansion in Greenwich, Connecticut, an apartment at the Plaza Hotel, and the annual use of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate for one month, as reported by The New York Times. The divorce marked the end of an era for the iconic couple but also ushered in a new, independent chapter for Ivana.

Following her split from Donald, Ivana continued to live a vibrant and public life. She explored a diverse range of business opportunities, leveraging her name recognition and entrepreneurial spirit. She launched her own lines of clothing, jewelry, and beauty products, successfully selling them through home-shopping channels. She also became a celebrated author, penning several books, including the 1992 novel *For Love Alone*, and the 1995 self-help guide *The Best Is Yet to Come: Dealing with Divorce and Enjoying Life Again*. Her 2017 memoir, *Raising Trump*, offered a candid and personal account of her marriage to Donald and her experiences raising their three children, providing unique insights into the Trump family dynamics.

Her personal life also saw new unions. She married Italian businessman Riccardo Mazzucchelli in 1995, though they divorced two years later in 1997. She was then romantically involved with Roffredo Gaetani until his passing in 2005. Her fourth marriage was to Italian actor and model Rossano Rubicondi in 2008, a relationship that ended in divorce in 2009, though they maintained an on-again, off-again dynamic for years. Rubicondi tragically passed away at the age of 49 in October 2021.

Tributes and a Lasting Legacy

News of Ivana Trump’s death quickly led to a wave of heartfelt tributes from her family and public figures. Donald Trump himself shared the news on his Truth Social platform, expressing profound sorrow for the loss of his first wife. “I am very saddened to inform all of those that loved her, of which there are many, that Ivana Trump has passed away at her home in New York City,” he wrote. “She was a wonderful, beautiful, and amazing woman, who led a great and inspirational life. Her pride and joy were her three children, Donald Jr., Ivanka, and Eric. She was so proud of them, as we were all so proud of her. Rest In Peace, Ivana!”

Her children also shared their grief and cherished memories. Ivanka Trump posted a touching tribute, calling her mother “brilliant, charming, passionate and wickedly funny.” Eric Trump shared similar sentiments, honoring her as “an incredible woman — a force in business, a world-class athlete, a radiant beauty, and caring mother and friend.” Donald Trump Jr. also remembered her fondly, acknowledging her powerful influence and love for her children.

Ivana Trump’s life was a testament to resilience, ambition, and an unwavering spirit. From her early days in Czechoslovakia to her prominent role in the New York business and social scene, she consistently carved out her own path. She will be remembered not only as the dynamic first wife of a future president but as a formidable businesswoman, a dedicated mother, and a charismatic personality who lived life on her own terms. Her legacy of strength, elegance, and entrepreneurial drive will continue to inspire for generations to come.