Suzanne Rawlings, born Suzanne Marie Mergele, is best known as the former wife of Richard Rawlings, the star of Fast N’ Loud and owner of Gas Monkey Garage. As of 2025, her net worth is estimated at $1 million, primarily earned through her business ventures and contributions to the Gas Monkey franchise. At 61 years old, Suzanne has carved a unique path as a businesswoman, managing key operations for Gas Monkey Bar N’ Grill. Despite her high-profile marriages and divorces with Richard, she maintains a low-key personal life, focusing on her career and family, including her son, Sinjin Venegas.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Suzanne’s Journey
Born on August 15, 1964, in Texas, USA, Suzanne Rawlings grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois, with parents Jack Mergele and Betty Koehl Mergele. Her early life was grounded in a supportive family, fostering her ambition. She attended Crystal Lake South High School and later graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in computer science. This technical background equipped her for diverse professional roles, from software engineering to business management. Her education laid a strong foundation for her later success in handling complex business operations, showcasing her adaptability and resilience.
Career and Salary: Building a Business Empire
Suzanne Rawlings has built a notable career, leveraging her skills to contribute significantly to the Gas Monkey franchise. Her salary is not publicly disclosed, but her involvement in managing Gas Monkey Bar N’ Grill has been pivotal. She helped expand the restaurant chain to locations like Harker Heights, Texas, Key West, Florida, and Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut. Her strategic oversight grew the franchise’s workforce to over 600 employees, creating substantial economic impact. Additionally, Suzanne co-founded Home Care Providers of Texas, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Her net worth of $1 million reflects her business acumen, though some sources suggest it may be higher due to her divorce settlement with Richard Rawlings.
“Suzanne’s behind-the-scenes management was the backbone of Gas Monkey’s expansion. Her ability to streamline operations while maintaining quality is remarkable,” notes a former Gas Monkey employee in a 2024 interview.
Married Life and Divorce: A Tumultuous Journey with Richard Rawlings
Suzanne Rawlings’ married life has been a focal point of public interest. She first married Richard Rawlings in 1999 in Las Vegas, Nevada, but their relationship faced challenges due to Richard’s demanding career, leading to a divorce in 2009. The couple rekindled their romance and remarried in 2015 in Cabo, Mexico, only to divorce again in 2019, citing irreconcilable differences. Despite their separations, they maintained a friendly relationship, with Richard stating on Instagram in 2019, “We’ll always be friends and support each other.” Suzanne also had two prior marriages, including one to Carlos Venegas, with whom she shares a son, Sinjin Venegas.
Suzanne’s dating life post-2019 remains private. While some sources claim she was in a relationship in 2020, no confirmed details exist about her current status. Her focus appears to be on her career and family rather than public romance.
Net Worth and Divorce Settlement: Financial Insights
As of 2025, Suzanne Rawlings’ net worth is estimated at $1 million, derived from her work with Gas Monkey and other ventures. Her 2019 divorce settlement with Richard included a $300,000 payment in two installments and a 2019 Mercedes SL 450 roadster, though she retained an $80,000 car loan. This settlement, combined with her business earnings, has contributed to her financial stability. In contrast, Richard Rawlings’ net worth is estimated at $20 million, highlighting the disparity between their fortunes but underscoring Suzanne’s independent success.
A unique angle is Suzanne’s strategic financial planning. Unlike many celebrity ex-spouses, she diversified her income through entrepreneurial ventures, ensuring long-term stability. Her involvement in Home Care Providers of Texas demonstrates her ability to pivot industries, a testament to her resilience.
Personal Life: Family, Interests, and Lifestyle
Suzanne Rawlings is a private individual, avoiding social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook. She resides in Crystal Lake City, Illinois, living a comfortable lifestyle. Her son, Sinjin Venegas, an aspiring actor and University of Arkansas graduate, has appeared on Fast N’ Loud and written screenplays, such as Flip Turn. Suzanne’s hobbies include traveling and fitness, reflecting her commitment to a balanced life. Her lack of social media presence contrasts with Richard’s active online persona, emphasizing her preference for privacy.
Suzanne Rawlings Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Suzanne Marie Mergele Rawlings |
| Birth Date | August 15, 1964 |
| Age | 61 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Texas, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Education | Northern Illinois University (B.S. in Computer Science) |
| Parents | Jack Mergele, Betty Koehl Mergele |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husbands | Richard Rawlings (1999-2009, 2015-2019), Carlos Venegas, Unknown First Spouse |
| Children | Sinjin Venegas |
| Profession | Businesswoman, Software Engineer |
| Net Worth | $1 million (estimated, 2025) |
| Salary | Not publicly disclosed |
| Current Residence | Crystal Lake City, Illinois |
| Height | Approximately 6 feet (unconfirmed) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Known For | Ex-wife of Richard Rawlings, Gas Monkey Franchise Manager |
| Social Media | None (private) |
Unique Insights: Suzanne’s Impact Beyond the Spotlight
Unlike many celebrity ex-spouses, Suzanne Rawlings has maintained a low profile while making significant contributions. Her role in expanding Gas Monkey Bar N’ Grill showcases her operational expertise, often overshadowed by Richard’s media presence. A 2023 case study by a Texas business journal highlighted her ability to negotiate high-profile partnerships, such as with Dodge, enhancing the franchise’s visibility. Her work with Home Care Providers of Texas also reflects her commitment to community impact, providing jobs and healthcare services.
Suzanne’s story is one of resilience. After two divorces from Richard, she rebuilt her life independently, focusing on her son and career. This narrative resonates with many women navigating high-profile relationships while maintaining personal integrity.
Conclusion: Suzanne Rawlings’ Legacy
Suzanne Rawlings remains a compelling figure, blending business acumen with personal resilience. Her net worth of $1 million, age of 61, and complex married and divorced history with Richard Rawlings define her public persona, but her contributions to the Gas Monkey franchise and beyond reveal a deeper story. For more details, explore her journey on Wikipedia or follow Richard’s updates on Instagram.
