Villach, Austria – January 26, 2024 – The Villach region mourned the loss of several prominent figures in 2023, individuals who shaped the community through business, service, and creative endeavors. From a beloved restaurateur to a young teacher inspiring his students, their absence leaves a palpable void.
Gastronomic Pioneer Stefan Rauter Dies at 57
The founder of the popular “Francobollo” pizzeria in St. Jakob, Stefan Rauter, passed away at the end of January.
Stefan Rauter was known beyond the borders of St. Jakob and died in January this year
© KK/Privat
Rauter, a nationally known restaurateur, managed the “Francobollo” pizzeria for many years alongside his brother, Christoph Rauter. Together, they established the pizzeria as a regional culinary landmark before Rauter’s entrepreneurial journey was cut short by illness.
A Teacher Remembered for His Resilience
Moritz Oitzinger, a young teacher, succumbed to an illness in October after a courageous battle. His dedication to his students was remarkable; even as his voice failed, he adapted, introducing a non-verbal method of communication to maintain connection and continue teaching. “His great concern was that he would be forgotten, but such a person can never be forgotten,” colleagues shared.
Moritz Oitzinger was only 29 years old. The sporty Finkensteiner doesn’t just leave a gap at school.
© KK/Privat
Villach Doctor and Hockey Enthusiast Passes at 50
Martin Niedermayer, a Villach-based doctor, died at the age of 50. Remembered as a cheerful and dedicated professional, Niedermayer was also a passionate fan of the Villacher VSV ice hockey team. “I have never met a more positive person,” remarked Matthias Fürstner, a senior physician at the Klagenfurt Clinic and a longtime friend.
Born with an incurable disease, doctors initially gave him only three weeks to live
© KLZ / Montage
Despite commuting to Klagenfurt for his career, Niedermayer remained a loyal supporter of Villacher VSV.
Musician Dies Before Premiere of New Song
Mario Lerchbaumer, a Villach Austropop musician, unexpectedly passed away in June at the age of 38 due to a medical emergency. Just days before his death, he and his bandmate Michael Plank had completed their new song, “Villacher Kirchtog,” which was slated to debut on Church Day.
Mario Lerchbaumer (left) and Michael Plank presented their song “Villacher Kirchtog” live on the church day, but Lerchbaumer died unexpectedly in June
© KK Second chance
Velden Entrepreneur Dies at 99
Isolde Wrann, a prominent entrepreneur from Velden, passed away in August at the age of 99. Her family described her as possessing “99 years full of energy, joy of life and loving humor.” Wrann, a highly respected figure in the region, was preparing to celebrate her 100th birthday on November 5th, 2025. She is survived by four sons, 13 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.
Isolde Wrann led an ambitious life and played a key role in building the successful company
© KK Montage
