Jonas Neubauer, who was seven times a Classic Tetris World Champion, has died at the age of 39 from a “sudden medical emergency.” Jonas’ official Twitter account announced the sad news.
It’s with a heavy heart that we deliver the terrible news that Jonas has passed away from a sudden medical emergency.
He was the absolute best. We are devastated, overwhelmed with grief, and we already miss him dearly.
Information to follow when it becomes available.— Jonas Neubauer (@neubsauce) January 9, 2021
Jonas Neubauer had made his mark in gaming and esports by earning seven top trophies as the winner of the annual world championships of classic (NES) Tetris. The championship event for this competitive gaming tournament posted their condolences on Twitter.
We are heartbroken to share that Jonas Neubauer, 7-time CTWC champion, passed away suddenly on Jan 4.
We could have never asked for a greater champ, role model, and friend. Jonas, we miss you, we love you, and we thank you for inspiring us to always be our best. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/CaaGgd4ZY3
— Tetris Championship (@ClassicTetris) January 9, 2021
The official Tetris Twitter account also expressed their sentiments on Jonas Neubauer’s passing:
This is a tremendous loss in so many ways. Jonas Neubauer was one of the greatest classic Tetris players of all time in skill, spirit, and kindness.
Our hearts go out to his family and friends, and to the entire classic Tetris community, as we all mourn his passing. https://t.co/iOJWFdBuv0
— Tetris (@Tetris_Official) January 9, 2021
From the GoFundMe fundraiser established to assist his family with expenses, the fundraiser organizer shared several few bits and pieces that revealed some of Jonas Neubauer’s whimsical, fun-loving personality, including this story:
Jonas was the 7-time World Champion of Tetris, a feat that garnered him admiration throughout the world and set up a near-certain future as an esports commentator. His Tetris skills took him and Heather to exotic locations where he was greeted by fans young and old. True to his playful participation in life, after a misprint describing him as a 60-year-old from Albacete, Spain, Jonas played along, tweeting his love for his newfound homeland. Soon, residents of the Spanish city started following him, cheering on their newest citizen. Eventually beloved citywide, the Mayor invited he and Heather to visit, bestowing Jonas with the Knife to the City (their incredible version of our “key to the city”).
The GoFundMe has, so far, raised over 45,000 of the $50,000 target. Jonas is survived by his wife Heather Ito, his mom Sharry Neubauer, his brothers Jason and Justin, and his sic nephews.
