Ronald G. Wanek

Ronald G. Wanek (born 1941) is an American billionaire businessman, and the founder and chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries.

Early life Wanek grew up on a dairy farm in Minnesota, where his grandfather and great uncle built furniture as a hobby.

Awards and honors In 2015, Ronald G. Wanek received an honorary doctorate from High Point University during their commencement ceremony. In April 2026, Wanek ranked on Forbes' "Self-Made 250" list.

Career Wanek started his first manufacturing business, Arcadia Furniture, in 1970 with a loan from his father and money he got from selling his home.

Political activity In 2012, Wanek, "a prominent Republican donor", gave $1 million towards hosting Tampa's Republican National Convention.

Personal life He is married to Joyce; they have three children and live in St. Petersburg, Florida. His son Todd R. Wanek is the CEO of Ashley Furniture.

In 1998, Wanek and his wife Joyce started the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation. The foundation donates to causes including children and families charities, medical research, education, arts and U.S. armed forces.