Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Eva Luise Köhler and her children and grandchildren. We sincerely wish all relatives comfort at this difficult time.
Horst Köhler was not only a highly respected economist and visionary statesman, but above all a man with a big heart. His life, his work and his kindness left a deep impression on everyone who had the honour to know him. He pursued his convictions with passion, dedication and perseverance, always keeping an eye on the bigger picture and putting humanity first. Horst Köhler shared with his wife Eva Luise a love for his fellow human beings and a deep commitment to those who do not have it easy in life.
During his first term as Federal President, the couple decided to campaign for better healthcare for people with rare diseases. “Giving hope to such people is what my wife set out to do and I admire her for it,” said Horst Köhler in 2021 on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the Eva Luise and Horst Köhler Foundation for People with Rare Diseases. It filled him with joy and pride to see how his wife’s commitment had opened doors for the “orphans of medicine” and given many people hope.
“I am Horst Köhler, and that is how I will remain,” he once said of himself. We take comfort in these words, but also see them as an obligation. Horst Köhler’s legacy and values will live on – in our actions and in what we pass on to future generations. It is an honour for us, together with Eva Luise and Ulrike Köhler, the other members of the Board of Trustees and the staff at the head office, to preserve and carry forward his convictions and plans. His memory will guide us in our work for the Eva Luise and Horst Köhler Foundation for People with Rare Diseases.
Prof Dr Annette Grüters-Kieslich
On behalf of the Board of Trustees and the staff of the Foundation