Chuck Norris Kids: His Youngest Daughter Just Celebrated Major Personal Milestone
Chuck Norris, a martial arts champion who parlayed his athletic prowess into a legendary acting career, died at the age of 86, his family confirmed in a statement on Friday, March 20.
"It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning. While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace," the family said.
Norris was initially hospitalized on Thursday in Hawaii.
(Photo by Vince Bucci/WireImage)
Norris Had 5 Children With 3 Different Women
The Walker, Texas Ranger star fathered five children with three different women. He initially tied the knot with his high school sweetheart Dianne Kay Holechekin 1958 and the couple had two children, Mike and Eric, who both went on to work in the film industry.
During his first marriage, Norris had an extramarital affair and fathered his eldest daughter Dina.
The Breaker! Breaker! actor opened up about the affair in his memoir Against All Odds, per Hollywood Life. “To my shame, I never told Johanna that I was married,” he wrote, per Women Working. " ... I didn’t need DNA or blood tests. I went to her, wrapped my arms around her, and we both started crying. At that moment, it was as if I had known her all my life,” he wrote.
After Chuck and Dianne divorced in 1989, he tied the knot with model Gena O’Kelley in 1998 and the couple welcomed twins Dakota and Danilee in August 2001.
In her latest Instagram post, Norris' youngest daughter revealed her engagement.
"Many will say “it’s about time”, but I say that it was just perfect!! This day felt like a dream and it’s all because of you @garrett_barnfield I love you," she said in the caption of the post.
Norris' Family Heartbroken By His Death
In an Instagram post announcing his death, Norris' family revealed what he meant to them.
"To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family," the family said in a statement.
" ... While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him," they added. "The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends."
The family said it was "grateful" to receive prayers and support from his fans after his hospitalization.