Miguel Ángel “Mike” Bezos is known as the adoptive father of Jeff Bezos, who founded Amazon. Miguel’s is a rags-to-riches story of perseverance, determination, and achievement. From refugee to philanthropist to an integral part of his son’s life, Miguel’s impact has been significant. Let us learn about his life in more detail.
Quick Facts About Miguel Bezos
| Full Name | Miguel Ángel “Mike” Bezos Pérez |
| Birthdate | September 29, 1945 |
| Occupation | Engineer (ExxonMobil), Philanthropist, Co-founder of Bezos Family Foundation |
| Husband/Wife | Jacklyn Bezos (married 1968) |
| Education | Salesianum School, Wilmington, Delaware |
| Age | 79 years and 7 months old |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Grandchildren | Preston Bezos, Others name not known |
| Children | Jeff Bezos (adoptive), Mark Bezos, Christina Bezos |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $30 billion (as of 2025, from investment in Amazon) |
Early Life and Background
Miguel was born on September 29, 1945, in Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. His father had a lumber mill, but when Fidel Castro rose to power and made private companies national, it affected his family’s business. Their business was lost. Miguel, who was only 16 at that time, left Cuba and came to the United States in 1962. He came to Miami as a refugee and lived in a camp named Camp Matecumbe, which was meant for Cuban kids.
Later, Miguel relocated to Wilmington, Delaware. There, he completed high school and started adapting to his new American life. Miguel did not know English when he arrived, but he picked it up fast. His tale demonstrates the resilience of immigrants and how diligence can bring success.
Education and Career
Miguel’s path was not an easy one, but he tried his best. From Salesianum School in Wilmington, he struggled to build a life for himself here in the U.S. He not only learned the culture, but he flourished.
Miguel worked at ExxonMobil for 32 years, which is a huge oil corporation. He rose through the ranks and became a very respected employee. His work life was characterized by commitment, and he was considered a reliable and competent engineer.
Meeting Jacklyn and Becoming a Family
In 1968, Miguel married Jacklyn Gise, later known as Jacklyn Bezos. Jacklyn was a single mother to Jeff Bezos, whose biological father was Ted Jorgensen. Miguel and Jacklyn married, and shortly after, Miguel adopted Jeff when Jeff was around four years old. He named Jeff his last name, Bezos, and took on a fatherly role to him.
Miguel and Jacklyn had two more children together, Mark and Christina. Miguel had a significant role in his children’s lives, always urging them to work hard and pursue their dreams.
Role in Jeff Bezos’s Life and Amazon
Miguel was not only a father to Jeff but also a strong supporter of Jeff’s aspiration to venture into business to begin Amazon. When Jeff chose to begin Amazon.com in 1995, Miguel and Jacklyn assisted by advancing Jeff a loan of $245,000. They were aware that venturing into business was risky, but they had faith in Jeff’s vision. The loan was one of the best investments they ever made, as Amazon became one of the world’s largest businesses.
In 2020, their $245,000 in Amazon was now worth billions. They were supportive financially and emotionally and contributed to the success of Jeff.
Philanthropy and the Bezos Family Foundation
In 2000, Jacklyn and Miguel founded the Bezos Family Foundation. The foundation aims to enhance education and provide improved learning environments for children throughout the U.S. Miguel is highly involved in philanthropy and is a firm believer in giving back to society. His is a tale of generosity and making a difference.
Miguel has also gained accolades as a contributing factor to society. In the year 2006, Miguel received the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Award. It is awarded to individuals who have been instrumental in bringing about changes to the world, particularly to individuals who, just like Miguel, have significantly influenced society despite being immigrants.
READ ALSO: Jeff Bezos Net worth, Age, Girlfriend, Family, Facts & More
Personal Qualities
Miguel is particularly warm, positive, and industrious. All his life, he has served as a good example to Jeff and his brothers. Jeff had frequently mentioned to others how he looked up to his adoptive father and how Miguel’s backing and encouragement enabled him to accomplish his own triumphs.
Miguel’s story is an inspiring tale of resilience, love, and the power of family. His commitment to his own work, his family, and his community demonstrates that hard work and a positive attitude can result in great things.
