Joseph H. Lauder (1902-1983), originally named Joseph Lauter, was an American businessman best known as the husband and co-founder of the Estée Lauder Companies alongside his wife, Estée Lauder (born Josephine Esther Mentzer). The couple married, divorced in 1939, and remarried in 1942. They established Estée Lauder, Inc. in 1946, with Joseph providing crucial support in the early development and operations of the cosmetics company, which grew into a global powerhouse. Lauder was involved in key milestones, such as the company's first manufacturing facility in Melville, New York, where he was photographed with his grandson Gary in 1968. He and Estée had two sons, Ronald and Leonard Lauder, who later became prominent figures in the family business. Joseph Lauder passed away on January 15, 1983.