- She's grateful to the late Richard Lugner.
Even though Richard Lugner (1932-2024) reached the age of 91, the death of "Mörtel", as he was fondly known, came as a surprise to many. This includes Bahati Venus, who was once in a relationship with the Austrian builder and was then affectionately called "Kolibri" by him.
Some might have thought "that it would go on forever"
The two had known each other for around eleven years. "But that it would happen so suddenly was also a shock for me and very surprising," "Kolibri" explained in a conversation with "Krone.tv". The deceased was "really a phoenix" in his ability to bounce back. People associated Lugner with joy in life "and also that it would go on forever". But even a Richard Lugner was unfortunately not immortal, although he would always be present in people's hearts. Knowing that he is no longer there feels surreal.
What she appreciated most about him was that he "treated everyone at eye level". In his shopping center "Lugner City" in Vienna, there are people who started with simpler jobs and now have "a great job because he was very open-minded and believed in people who are committed". Even a degree didn't matter. "He was the exact opposite of pretentious," said Bahati Venus. She is grateful to him "for everything he was and what I could learn from him". Lugner motivated everyone to "reach for the stars" and not care about what others think.
"Mausi" and "Spatzi" also speak up
Lugner's partners often received animal nicknames. Alongside "Kolibri", in recent hours, "Mausi" and "Spatzi" have also spoken out, sharing similar sentiments about Lugner. "Richard was my role model and life partner, I have a lot to thank him for," said Christina "Mausi" Lugner (59) in a statement to the "Kronen Zeitung". The two were married from 1991 to 2007. Cathy "Spatzi" Lugner (34), who was married to the builder from 2014 to 2016, wrote on Instagram, among other things: "When I heard the tragic news of your death this morning, I was in shock. Richard, you seemed immortal to me too." She thanks him "from the bottom of her heart for the great time" she had by his side.
Despite Lugner's reputation for resilience and a seemingly endless life filled with joy, his sudden death was a shocking reality. "Mausi" and "Spatzi", two of his past partners, echoed this sentiment, expressing their gratitude and shock at his passing.
