Builder Richard Lugner (91) passed away a month and three days ago. An entire family mourned publicly, his last wife stood aside. Simone Lugner (42) talks to Conny Bischofberger about the night of her death, her way of saying goodbye and a future that is still in the dark.
The Russian alley cat “Nyo” is sleeping on the couch, and a fire burns in the fireplace beneath the Warhol-esque Lugner portrait. “If the inheritance is divided at some point,” says Simone, taking her place where her husband used to sit, “I would have liked to keep this photo.”
It is Friday the 13th, “Richard’s lucky number,” Simone explains as she opens the door to the Lugner villa in the vineyards of Grinzing. Neighbors and fans have placed grave lights in front of the garage, “he is still very much missed.” It is eerily quiet in the house, where Remmidemmi used to be. The wind whips through the trees in the garden, the rain beats against the glass fronts of the large living room. “It somehow suits my mood,” says Simone, showing us her wreath. She has had it tied with artificial flowers and wants to take it to Richard’s grave soon.
“Crown”: Mrs. Lugner, how are you, alone, here in the big house?
Simone Lugner: Some days the world still falls apart. Other days, when I think of the good things, it works. I’ve always lived alone and got along fine. I didn’t miss anything. Now I’m sitting there and he’s missing. I’m sitting there and he’s missing. I’m sitting outside and he’s missing. I still find it hard to look at pictures. It’s everywhere. It’s worst in the evening. This was always our time.
How did you spend the night before his death?
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
