A Lifetime Together: Bob Barker and Dorothy Jo Gideon
Let me tell you a story about Bob Barker, the legendary game show host. He and his late wife, Dorothy Jo Gideon, shared an incredible journey together for 36 years. Despite building a life filled with love and happiness, they never had children. Bob once explained, "We didn’t have time for children. I don’t regret it, not when so many of my friends are having so much trouble with their children." In a candid 2007 interview with Esquire, the Price Is Right star, who hosted the beloved series for nearly 35 years, added, "I have thirteen ducks, and that’s a lot of work."
Loss and Legacy: The Passing of Dorothy Jo
Life took a tragic turn in 1981 when Dorothy Jo passed away at the young age of 57, just six months after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Bob fondly remembered their time together, saying, "I was married at 21; Dorothy Jo was 20. She was with me all the time until she died." Reflecting on the possibility of remarriage, he noted, "For some men, maybe a second or third marriage would work out fine. In my case, I had my marriage and she was the love of my life."
Love at First Sight: Bob and Dorothy’s Early Years
Theirs was a love story that began at an Ella Fitzgerald concert in the mid-1930s. It was love at first sight, and the couple eloped in 1945 while Bob was on leave from the U.S. Navy. Their union was built on mutual respect, love, and adventure.
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Health Challenges and Retirement
Following Dorothy's passing and retiring from The Price Is Right in 2007, Bob faced his own health challenges, including two strokes and several falls. Yet, the Washington native remained resilient. "He’s not that mobile but can get around with assistance in his wheelchair," a close source revealed to Closer Weekly.
Still a Fan: Bob’s Love for The Price Is Right
Even in his later years, the Emmy Award-winning host never lost his passion for the show. "He likes Drew Carey and enjoys the show," the insider added, referring to the current host. "He’s a fan." Celebrating The Price Is Right's 60th Anniversary in 2016, Bob shared what made the program so successful. "People always like to win prizes," he explained. "And they can win them without knowing who discovered America or anything in the way of history. All the contestants have to do is have Lady Luck give them a break and hope they walk away with a lot of money."
Life in the Final Years
In August 2022, Bob’s girlfriend, Nancy Burnet, spoke about his life as he approached his 99th birthday. "He’s doing pretty well… he’s happy, he’s engaged. He’s just doing remarkably well for almost 99 years of age," Nancy told Closer Weekly. Sadly, Bob did not make it to his 100th birthday. The South Dakota native passed away at his Los Angeles home on August 26, 2023, at the age of 99.
