Evel Knievel's Wife Linda: The Untold Story

Linda Knievel, the wife of the legendary daredevil Evel Knievel, played a significant role in his life and career, often overlooked by the public eye. Their relationship was full of ups and downs, much like Evel's spectacular jumps. In this article, we will dive deep into Linda's life, her marriage with Evel, and the challenges they faced together. We will explore Linda's background, her contributions to Evel's career, and the legacy they left behind, providing an insightful look at this remarkable woman.

Linda Knievel, born Linda Joan Bork, became a household name due to her marriage to Evel Knievel, a man known for his daring motorcycle jumps and stunts. Their love story began in the 1960s, and together they navigated the complexities of fame, family, and the dangers associated with Evel's career. As we explore Linda's life, we will also highlight her resilience and the pivotal role she played as a supportive partner, showcasing her own experiences and challenges throughout their years together.

In this comprehensive article, we will cover various aspects of Linda's life, from her early years to her relationship with Evel, and the impact of their union on both their personal lives and Evel's professional career. By examining the life of Linda Knievel, we aim to shed light on the woman behind the iconic daredevil, celebrating her contributions and enduring legacy.

Table of Contents

• 1. Biography of Linda Knievel
• 2. Early Life of Linda Knievel
• 3. Marriage to Evel Knievel
• 4. Family Life and Challenges
• 5. Supporting Evel's Career
• 6. Life After Evel Knievel
• 7. Legacy of Linda Knievel
• 8. Conclusion

1. Biography of Linda Knievel

Linda Knievel, born on July 24, 1940, in Butte, Montana, was not only Evel Knievel’s wife but also a crucial part of his life. As a child, she showed an interest in the performing arts and was a talented dancer. Her vibrant personality and supportive nature would later play a significant role in her marriage to Evel. They married in 1958 and had four children together: Kelly, Robbie, and two others. Below is a brief overview of Linda's personal details:

2. Early Life of Linda Knievel

Linda’s upbringing in Montana was marked by a close-knit family environment. Growing up, she developed a love for adventure and thrill-seeking, which would later complement Evel’s daredevil persona. Her early experiences shaped her into the supportive partner she would become, as she learned the importance of resilience and adaptability in challenging situations.

2.1. Education and Interests

Linda attended local schools in Butte and later pursued her passion for dance. She was known for her energetic performances and charismatic stage presence, qualities that would serve her well throughout her life. Her interests also included outdoor activities, which she often enjoyed with Evel and their children.

2.2. Meeting Evel Knievel

Linda met Evel Knievel in the late 1950s, and their connection was almost instantaneous. Evel, known for his daredevil antics, was a magnetic personality who quickly charmed Linda. Their relationship blossomed, leading to a whirlwind romance that culminated in marriage.

3. Marriage to Evel Knievel

The marriage between Linda and Evel Knievel was both passionate and tumultuous. They faced numerous challenges, including Evel's demanding career, his frequent injuries, and the pressures of fame. Despite these hurdles, Linda remained a steadfast partner, providing emotional support and stability for their family.

3.1. Early Years of Marriage

In the early years of their marriage, Linda had to adjust to Evel's unpredictable schedule and the inherent dangers of his career. Evel's fame skyrocketed with his daring stunts, and Linda often found herself in the background, supporting him from the sidelines. Their commitment to each other strengthened during this time, as they navigated the challenges of balancing family life with Evel's career.

3.2. Challenges and Struggles

Throughout their marriage, Linda faced significant challenges, including financial struggles during Evel's early career and the emotional toll of his injuries. Evel's daredevil stunts often resulted in severe accidents, leaving Linda to pick up the pieces and care for their children during his recovery. Despite the difficulties, Linda remained resilient, showcasing her strength and unwavering support.

4. Family Life and Challenges

Linda and Evel's family life was marked by a mix of joy and hardship. They welcomed four children into their lives, and Linda took on the role of devoted mother while managing the complexities of being married to a famous daredevil.

4.1. Raising Children

Linda dedicated herself to raising their children, instilling in them the values of hard work and resilience. She often shared stories of Evel’s daring feats, encouraging her children to pursue their own dreams, while also emphasizing the importance of safety and responsibility.

4.2. Coping with Evel’s Lifestyle

As Evel continued to perform dangerous stunts, Linda often worried about his safety. The couple faced numerous challenges, including the impact of Evel's fame on their family life. Linda worked tirelessly to maintain a sense of normalcy for their children, often acting as a buffer between them and the media.

5. Supporting Evel's Career

Linda Knievel was not just a supportive wife; she was an integral part of Evel's career. Her role extended beyond that of a partner, as she actively participated in managing his public image and handling various aspects of his professional life.

5.1. Behind the Scenes

Linda often worked behind the scenes, helping to coordinate events, manage finances, and ensure that Evel's career stayed on track. Her organizational skills and dedication to their family allowed Evel to focus on his performances, knowing that he had her unwavering support.

5.2. Public Appearances

Linda often appeared alongside Evel during public events, showing a united front as a couple. Their joint appearances demonstrated their commitment to each other and their family, creating a lasting impression on fans and the media alike.

6. Life After Evel Knievel

Following Evel's passing in 2007, Linda faced the daunting task of navigating life without her partner. She found solace in the memories they created together and the legacy he left behind.

6.1. Coping with Loss

The loss of Evel was a significant blow to Linda, who had devoted so much of her life to supporting him. She took time to grieve and reflect on their shared experiences, focusing on the positive moments they shared as a family.

6.2. Continuing the Legacy

In the years following Evel's death, Linda dedicated herself to preserving his legacy. She engaged in various initiatives to honor his contributions to the world of entertainment and extreme sports, ensuring that his memory would live on.

7. Legacy of Linda Knievel

Linda Knievel’s legacy extends beyond her marriage to Evel. She is remembered as a strong and resilient woman who faced the challenges of life alongside one of the most daring figures in entertainment history.

7.1. Impact on Family and Community

Linda's influence on her family and community has been profound. She raised her children with love and instilled in them the values of perseverance and courage. Her commitment to family and the lessons she imparted continue to resonate with her children and grandchildren.

7.2. Recognition and Tribute

Linda has received recognition for her contributions to Evel's