About Karl McMillen
Born in 1928, Karl McMillen, Jr. grew up alongside a rapidly changing Southern California. From a young age, he embodied grit and curiosity—taking on odd jobs, learning everything he could, and chasing opportunity with quiet determination.
Karl got his start plumbing tract homes as a partner in Alert Plumbing, later founding Todd Pipe & Supply. Under his leadership, the company expanded to nine locations across Southern California and Las Vegas, employing over 400 people. Todd Pipe became a model of success, built on Karl’s hard work, integrity, and deep respect for both his employees and customers.
But Karl’s remarkable business achievements were shadowed by profound personal loss. He lost his first wife to cancer, and both of his sons to the long, heartbreaking grip of addiction. Karl also faced his own struggles with alcoholism, and proudly carried his seventeen-year sobriety chip as a symbol of the strength it took to heal.
His journey through the early days of addiction treatment—trying desperately to help his sons—sparked a new purpose. In 2007, Karl and his wife Carol founded The McMillen Family Foundation, a powerful force for good that has donated over $12 million to organizations supporting addiction recovery and prevention.
Karl used the wealth he built to fight for others—to spare families the pain he knew too well. That mission, born of tragedy but fueled by love and determination, may be his most enduring legacy.
Triumphs and Tragedies
A True Story of Wealth and Addiction
The Life of Karl B. McMillen, Jr. as told by Bill Hayes and Jennifer Thomas
Karl McMillen is America’s hard work ethic. He’s the guy Thomas Jefferson said will “determine never to be idle.” Babe Ruth’s “person who never gives up.”
Karl McMillen built his success on grit, resilience, and an unshakable work ethic. But when addiction touched his family, he turned that same determination toward understanding and fighting its devastating effects. Triumphs and Tragedies shares Karl’s journey—from business triumphs to personal heartbreak—and his commitment to helping others heal.
Through the McMillen Family Foundation, over $29 million has been granted to Southern California nonprofits combating addiction. With 20% of profits from Karl’s business pledged to the Foundation and his shares dedicated to its future, his legacy of hope and action will continue for generations.
The McMillen Family Foundation supports Southern California groups that assist people affected by alcohol and drug use, and promotes outreach and education to prevent addiction.