Self-Made Billionaire With Montana Roots

Celebrating Self-Made Success: Forbes’ Elite

Forbes has released its list of the 250 greatest self-made Americans, highlighting individuals who built their fortunes from the ground up and reached billionaire status. Topping the list is media icon Oprah Winfrey, a name that’s become synonymous with self-made success.

But Montana has a spot on the list too.

Coming in at an impressive No. 22, right above NBA Hall of Famer, Magic Johnson, is Dennis Washington, a businessman with deep ties to the Treasure State. Washington built his fortune through construction, mining, and heavy industry, growing his company into a global powerhouse. Along the way, he also owned the Montana Rail Link, a major part of the state’s transportation history.

From Humble Beginnings to Billionaire Status

According to Forbes, Washington lived in government housing in World War II, and shined shoes as a kid to make pocket money.

Despite his worldwide business reach, Washington still considers Missoula one of his homes and is known to spend time in the area.

The Luxurious Lifestyle of a Self-Made Billionaire

And in true billionaire fashion, his lifestyle has included some eye-catching extras. One of his yachts has even made a couple Hollywood appearances in the classic Overboard, starring Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, and Indecent Proposal with Woody Harrelson and Demi Moore.

So there you have it. From global business success to Montana roots, one of the greatest self-made Americans on Forbes’ list has a direct connection right here in Missoula.