The world's third oldest billionaire--and perhaps the only jazz pianist to make three commas--Austria's own Karl Wlaschek has died at 97. Though he made a name for himself in jazz, it was his retail and real estate endeavors that yielded his fortune.
A bit of trivia for the money-making circle, Wlaschek's death comes less than two weeks before Mr. David Rockefeller turns 100 (on June 12). While Rockfeller may be the oldest billionaire to date, Kirk Kerkorian places second, turning 98 later this June. As of late, there are 35 billionaires around the world in their 90s and altogether 200 who are at least 80.
A lot of money may circle around the better cut suits of the world, sure, but Mr. Wlaschek was a special breed. Born to musicians, Karl worked as a jazz pianist and was also a singer known as Charly Walker in the post-World War I music scene.
Shortly thereafter, he amassed his first fortune in retail by opening up a discount cosmetics store in Vienna a few years after the Second World War in 1953. Forming from this initial venture, thus, the Austrian created the retail chain Billa, which ended up selling for $1 bullion in 1996 to the German REWE Group.
Soon after, he became one of the largest private real estate owners in the country with about 250 properties, which included 10 hotels and 8 palaces and historic buildings in Vienna.
He was married five times, marrying his last wife, a woman 30 years his junior, in April 2012 according to Forbes.
Our condolences to Mr. Wlaschek's family and loved ones.
Help say goodbye to the Austrian jazz pianist by enjoying some of his music.
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