The world bid farewell to Richard Lugner, a renowned Austrian businessman, who passed away at the age of 91. Lugner, a billionaire and infamous playboy, led a life marked by both business success and high-profile relationships. Known for his lavish lifestyle, Lugner’s death occurred at his villa in Döbling, Vienna, where he had been battling health issues for some time.
A Life of Opulence and Multiple Marriages
Richard Lugner’s personal life was as eventful as his business ventures. He had married six times, with his most recent marriage occurring just two months before his death. In June, Lugner tied the knot with Simone Relander, who at 42, was 49 years his junior. Although he was reportedly in good health during the wedding, Lugner soon began experiencing back pain and fatigue. His condition rapidly deteriorated, and despite the efforts of the Medical Emergency Service, he passed away in his home.
From Construction Tycoon to Mall King
Before his rise to fame as a mall mogul, Richard Lugner made his mark in the construction industry. His first major success came in 1990 with the opening of Lugner City, a shopping mall in Vienna that solidified his status as a prominent figure in the business world. Lugner’s ventures extended beyond construction, as he became known as the king of the mall industry in Austria, a title he held until his death.
A Colorful Life in the Public Eye
Lugner’s fame was not limited to his business acumen. He was well-known for his relationships with several high-profile celebrities, including Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton. Lugner often paid large sums to accompany these stars to glamorous events, such as the annual Vienna Opera Ball. His connections with celebrities like former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell and supermodel Grace Jones further cemented his reputation as a man who enjoyed the limelight.
A Carefully Planned Farewell
Richard Lugner was a man who left nothing to chance, including his final arrangements. In the weeks leading up to his death, Lugner made it clear that his wife Simone would be the sole heir to his vast business empire. He also meticulously planned his own funeral, even going so far as to order his tombstone in advance. Lugner’s four children will now carry forward his legacy, though his political aspirations during his lifetime were largely unsuccessful.
Legacy of a Business Icon
Richard Lugner’s life was one of contrasts: a serious businessman with a penchant for the extravagant, and a public figure who reveled in the attention of the media. His death marks the end of an era for Austria’s business community and the social circles in which he moved. Lugner’s impact on Vienna’s landscape, both in terms of his architectural contributions and his vibrant presence in the city’s social scene, will not soon be forgotten.
The End of an Extraordinary Journey
Richard Lugner’s death at the age of 91 closes the chapter on a life filled with success, controversy, and glamour. His journey from a construction magnate to a mall king, coupled with his colorful personal life, makes him a figure who will be remembered for years to come. As his family and the public mourn his passing, Lugner’s legacy as a legendary businessman and playboy remains firmly etched in history.
