It is difficult to accept the death of our co-founder, friend and board member Manfried Welan. The gap he leaves behind is too big to be covered; Manfried was a person who lived in the past, the present and the future. His broad horizon has enabled him to consider human weaknesses as part of human existence and to accept them with a smile. He certainly had principles and could openly criticize, whereby his subtle humor helped him never to be offensive. One could expect to always be treated with fairness and respect by him. For this reason and because of his stupendous expertise, his advice was appreciated across all party lines. In company and at public appearances, he radiated unobtrusive presence and authority. He did not need pompous titles and positions for this; he would be composed and rested in himself.
We are grateful for the time we were able to spend with him.