Ron Glaser was a talented singer from Austria who had a passion for Elvis Presley and his music. He won the European Elvis Championship in 2016 and was considered by many to be one of the best Elvis tribute artists in the world. He even impressed Elvis’ former girlfriend Linda Thompson, who said that she had never heard anyone sound more like Elvis than him. Sadly, Ron Glaser passed away on January 8, 2022, at the age of 37, after battling a terminal illness. Here is what we know about his life, career, and death.
Early Life and Career
Ron Glaser was born on July 7, 1984, in Vienna, Austria. He had a twin brother named Sascha, who was also his musical partner and manager. Ron grew up listening to Elvis Presley and was inspired by his voice, style, and charisma. He started singing at a young age and learned to play the guitar and piano. He also studied music at the Vienna Conservatory.
Ron began performing as an Elvis tribute artist in 2004, when he was 20 years old. He quickly gained popularity and recognition for his remarkable resemblance and vocal similarity to The King. He performed at various events and venues across Europe, including the famous Star Club in Hamburg, Germany, where The Beatles played in the early 1960s. He also participated in several Elvis contests and festivals, such as the Images of the King World Championship in Memphis, Tennessee, where he reached the finals in 2015.
European Elvis Champion
Ron’s biggest achievement came in 2016, when he won the European Elvis Championship in Birmingham, England. He competed against more than 80 contestants from different countries and impressed the judges and the audience with his authentic and passionate rendition of Elvis songs. He received a trophy, a cash prize, and a trip to Graceland, Elvis’ home in Memphis. He also earned the respect and admiration of many Elvis fans and experts, including Linda Thompson, who was Elvis’ girlfriend from 1972 to 1976.
Linda Thompson met Ron Glaser in 2016 at an Elvis event in Vienna, where she was a guest of honor. She was amazed by his performance and became his friend and supporter. She said that he had an extraordinary talent and a beautiful voice that was very close to Elvis’. She also praised his personality and character, saying that he was a kind, humble, and generous person who loved his family and friends. She shared many photos and videos of him on her social media accounts and expressed her sorrow over his death.
Terminal Illness and Death
Ron Glaser’s health began to deteriorate in late 2021, when he was diagnosed with a terminal illness that affected his lungs and kidneys. He underwent several treatments at a medical institution, but his condition did not improve. He kept his fans updated on his situation through his Facebook page, where he thanked them for their love and support. He also expressed his gratitude to his brother Sascha, who stayed by his side throughout his ordeal.
Ron Glaser died on January 8, 2022, coinciding with what would have been Elvis Presley’s 87th birthday. His brother Sascha announced his passing on Facebook with a heartfelt message that read: “My beloved twin brother Ron has left us today…He fought like a lion until the end…He was the best brother anyone could wish for…He was my best friend…He was my idol…He was my hero…He was my everything…I love you more than words can say…You will always be in my heart…Rest in peace my brother…You are now with Elvis…”
Ron Glaser’s death caused a wave of grief and sadness among his fans and fellow Elvis tribute artists around the world. Many of them paid tribute to him online and offline, sharing their memories and condolences. They remembered him as a talented singer who honored Elvis Presley’s legacy with his voice and spirit. They also remembered him as a wonderful human being who touched many lives with his kindness and generosity.
Ron Glaser will be missed by many people who loved him and admired him. He left behind a legacy of music and joy that will live on forever. As Linda Thompson wrote on her Instagram post: “The world has lost one of its brightest lights…But heaven has gained an angel with an incredible voice…”
