Renowned Austrian billionaire and socialite, Richard Lugner, passed away on Monday at his villa in Vienna, weeks after marrying his sixth wife, Simone.
The 91-year-old construction tycoon had been dealing with various health issues prior to his death.
Lugner, affectionately known as “Mr. Concrete,” was celebrated for his extravagant lifestyle, multiple marriages, and high-profile companions.
He famously paid substantial sums to A-list celebrities, including Kim Kardashian, Geri Halliwell, and Paris Hilton, to attend Vienna’s annual Opera Ball.
Simone, who was 49 years younger than Lugner, paid a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, describing him as “the dream of her life.” She shared a painting of Richard on Instagram, accompanied by a poignant message: “And when I saw you shining, from the way I saw you shine, I knew I was yours too. In love.”
In a previous interview with Kurier, Simone expressed her admiration for Lugner, stating that he embodied everything she desired in a partner: “A successful man who represents something, who you can cling to, look up to, and learn from. Men like that are very rare at a younger age these days.”