Kitchener Elvis (real name Ronnie) was a mentally ill man who dressed up as Elvis every day. Homeless Outreach Programs such as A Hand Up for the Homeless had made contact with him and even tried to give him new clothes (since his Elvis costumes were becoming increasingly dirty,) however his illness was such that he felt compelled to only wear his Elvis costume. Generally, he had a friendly demeanour although often quiet, he could be seen often smoking his tobacco pipe in public waving and smiling to those who would marvel at him.

Ronnie passed away in September 2024, the news posted on Reddit by user u/Jamie_Canuck:

“Elvis has left the building.

Sad to report that Kitchener’s own Frederick Street Elvis, Ron has passed away. Saying Ron was unique is a bit of an understatement, Ron was well known in the community. Often seen panhandling, wearing his trademark Elvis costume, Ron lived in a local group home set up to house individuals with intellectual disabilities. Ron was not a crack-head or a drug addict, he was a human being just making his way through life to the best of his ability and very unique sense of style. I was lucky enough to be on a first name basis with Ron, and will miss my occasional Elvis sightings and quick chats. Kitchener is slightly less bright today with this loss, I’ll miss you sir.”