The Untold Story of Anne Steves: All About Rick Steves’ Ex-Wife

Anne Steves remains one of the most intriguing personalities connected to travel expert Rick Steves, despite her commitment to leading a private and quiet life. While Rick Steves built a global reputation through his books, travel guides, and hit TV series, Anne quietly supported their family, raised their children, and pursued a meaningful career in nursing and social activism. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the untold story of Anne Steves, shedding light on her early life, marriage, divorce, personal values, and life after separation—offering everything that curious readers, researchers, and fans search for when looking up terms like Anne Steves biography, who is Anne Steves, or Rick Steves’ wife.

Quick Bio of Anne Steves

Personal Details Information
Full Name Anne Steves
Date of Birth April 4, 1960
Age (2024) 64 years
Birthplace Snohomish, Washington, USA
Nationality American
Ethnicity White
Zodiac Sign Aries
Religion Christianity
Profession Nurse, Social Activist
Marital Status Divorced
Ex-Spouse Rick Steves
Children Andy Steves, Jackie Steves
Height 5’5″ (165 cm)
Weight 128 lbs (58 kg)
Hair Color Brown
Eye Color Grey

Early Life and Background of Anne Steves

Born on April 4, 1960, in Snohomish, Washington, Anne grew up in a modest, tight-knit community where traditional values, compassion, and service were deeply appreciated. Although she keeps her early life private, those who know her describe her as someone who always valued simplicity, kindness, and humility.

Her upbringing shaped her passion for helping others, ultimately guiding her toward a career in nursing and community-based activism. Anne’s early environment influenced the strong moral foundation she carried into adulthood, motherhood, and marriage.

Age, Appearance, and Personal Traits

At 64 years old, Anne Steves maintains a calm and graceful appearance. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing around 128 lbs, she is known for her composed demeanor. Her brown hair, grey eyes, and gentle personality contribute to her naturally soothing presence—attributes that have served her well in her nursing career.

Her confidence comes not from public fame, but from living a life anchored in purpose, privacy, and meaningful service.

Career as a Nurse and Social Activist

Anne built a long and respected career as a nurse, dedicating her life to supporting people in vulnerable situations. Known for her empathy and commitment, she has worked quietly and diligently without seeking praise or attention. Her contributions as a social activist include supporting charitable causes, community development efforts, and humanitarian missions.

While Rick Steves traveled the world to educate viewers through his guidebooks and TV programs, Anne focused on work that directly improved the lives of those around her. Her service-driven nature forms a core part of her legacy.

How Anne Met Rick Steves: A Marriage Built on Partnership

Anne and Rick Steves met in the early 1980s and quickly developed a deep connection. Their shared values and mutual support laid the foundation for a strong relationship. The couple married in 1984 in a private ceremony held at St. Thomas of Villanova, Pennsylvania.

Throughout their 26-year marriage, Anne provided stability at home while Rick pursued his travel-driven career. They created an environment filled with love, warmth, and learning for their two children. Anne’s role in Rick’s success may not have been visible to the public, but it was undeniably significant.

Who Is Rick Steves? A Brief Overview

Rick Steves, born May 10, 1955, is a celebrated travel writer, television host, and guidebook author known for helping Americans explore Europe affordably and authentically. His hit show “Rick Steves’ Europe” and bestselling travel guides have appeared on public television for decades.

Beyond travel, Rick is also known for his advocacy work, philanthropy, and political activism—areas where his values aligned strongly with Anne’s.

Anne and Rick Steves’ Children

Anne and Rick share two children, both of whom inherited their parents’ love for travel, culture, and social awareness:

1. Andy Steves

  • Founder of the travel company Weekend Student Adventures (WSA Europe)

  • Author of “Andy Steves’ Europe”

  • Known for promoting budget-friendly European travel

2. Jackie Steves

  • Writer, researcher, and travel enthusiast

  • Has appeared alongside her father on travel shows

  • Advocates for diversity, culture, and global experiences

Both children continue the Steves family legacy of curiosity, travel, and global learning.

The Divorce: What Really Happened?

After 26 years of marriage, Anne and Rick Steves officially divorced in 2010 at the Snohomish County Superior Court. While public curiosity sparked various rumors, the couple never disclosed the private reasons behind their separation.

Common speculation included:

  • Rick’s demanding travel schedule

  • Personal differences developed over time

  • Challenges balancing family life and global commitments

However, neither Anne nor Rick ever confirmed these theories. Their separation remained respectful and private, reflecting their values.

Life After Divorce: Anne Steves Today

After the divorce, Anne stepped even further away from the public eye. She continues to live a quiet, low-profile life, choosing privacy over publicity.

Today she focuses on:

  • Her nursing profession

  • Her work in social activism

  • Spending time with her family

  • Maintaining a peaceful lifestyle

Unlike many public figures’ ex-spouses, Anne has never used her past marriage for fame or exposure—an indication of her strength and integrity.

Anne Steves’ Net Worth

While her exact net worth is not publicly available, estimates place it between $500,000 and $10 million, a range influenced by:

  • Her nursing career

  • Financial settlements

  • Private investments

  • Low-profile lifestyle choices

Her former husband, Rick Steves, meanwhile, has an estimated net worth of around $15 million, accumulated through decades of travel writing, TV production, and business ventures.

Rick Steves After Divorce

Rick Steves has not remarried but has been in a relationship with Bishop Shelley Bryan Wee since 2019. He continues to produce travel content, write books, and advocate for social causes.

In 2024, Rick publicly announced that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer, with plans for surgery later in the year. Despite this health challenge, he remains active in the travel community and committed to his work.

Conclusion

The story of Anne Steves is one of strength, quiet resilience, and unwavering dedication to helping others. Though known publicly as the former wife of Rick Steves, her identity goes far beyond that title. As a mother, nurse, and social activist, Anne has touched countless lives through compassion and service, while remaining true to her values of privacy, humility, and integrity.

Her life reminds us that influence is not always loud or public—sometimes it’s found in the quiet acts of kindness that shape the world in meaningful ways.

FAQs About Anne Steves

1. Who is Anne Steves?
Anne Steves is a nurse, mother, and social activist, widely known as the ex-wife of travel host Rick Steves.

2. How old is Anne Steves?
She is 64 years old (born April 4, 1960).

3. What is her profession?
Anne is a nurse and supports various social causes.

4. When did she divorce Rick Steves?
Their divorce was finalized in 2010.

5. Does she have children?
Yes, Anne and Rick have two children: Andy Steves and Jackie Steves.

6. What is she doing now?
She lives a private life focused on nursing, activism, and family.

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