Wolfgang Puck Family Tree: The Story Behind Spago

Wolfgang Johannes Topfschnig, known as Wolfgang Puck, born 8 July 1949 in St. Veit an der Glan, Austria, is Austrian-American chef and restaurateur — founded Spago (Los Angeles, 1982) — Michelin star, celebrity-defining LA dining; catering the Academy Awards Governors Ball since 1994 (30 years); 25+ restaurants globally.

The Family's Roots: An Austrian Family

Illegitimate son; abusive stepfather.

His Mother

Maria Puck — Austrian; pastry chef at Hotel Post, Zell am See.

His Wives (3)

Wolfgang's first wife (name not widely publicised; 1970s, brief).

Barbara Lazaroff (m. 1983, div. 2002) — American architect; designed his restaurants.

Gelila Assefa (m. 2007) — Ethiopian-Italian fashion designer.

His Sons

Cameron Puck, b. 1987 — with Barbara.

Byron Puck, b. 1990 — with Barbara.

Oliver Puck, b. 2005 — with Gelila.

Alexander Puck, b. 2007 — with Gelila.

The Puck Family Tree at a Glance

Mother: Maria Puck — pastry chef.

Wives: unnamed 1970s; Barbara Lazaroff (1983-2002); Gelila Assefa (2007-present).

Sons: Cameron (b. 1987); Byron (b. 1990); Oliver (b. 2005); Alexander (b. 2007).

Puck:

  • Born 8 July 1949, St. Veit an der Glan
  • Trained at Hotel Post age 14; then Paris (Maxim's, Hôtel de Paris Monte Carlo)
  • Moved to US 1973
  • Chef at Ma Maison LA 1975-81
  • Spago Sunset opened 4 January 1982 — LA celebrity dining
  • Academy Awards Governors Ball chef from 1994 (30+ years)
  • 25+ restaurants globally

What the Puck Family Story Teaches Us

An Austrian pastry-chef mother. Three marriages producing 4 sons. A career that took a Kärnten pastry-chef's son to catering the Oscars for 30 years.

For every family — large or small, famous or otherwise — the Puck story carries the same lesson.

👉 Start building your family legacy today with Family Root App

📜 Disclaimer The family tree and biographical information provided in this article are based on publicly available sources and records. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or authenticity of all data. This content is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not aim to infringe on any individual's privacy or personal rights. If you believe any information is incorrect or wish to request edits or removal, please contact us at Info@familyrootapp.com.