The town of Idar-Oberstein mourns the loss of one of its greatest personalities and bows in deep respect to the life's work of an extraordinary man:
Hans Dieter Krieger
The entrepreneur and president of SC Idar-Oberstein passed away unexpectedly at the age of 86.
"Hans Dieter Krieger was a person who touched the lives of many people through his work, his character and his heart, and above all - a person who was there when he was needed. He was an exceptionally successful entrepreneur, a passionate footballer and singer, a club man and committed supporter of sport, who also helped to shape and influence the public life of our city for many decades," said Lord Mayor Frank Frühauf.
He was one of the great entrepreneurial personalities in the jewelry industry and brought our city worldwide recognition.
With a sense of responsibility and visionary entrepreneurial spirit, he led his company, which he took over at the age of 25 in 1964 after the death of his father.
His creations stood for the highest quality and timeless elegance and continue to enjoy international recognition today.
For decades, he bore responsibility - for his employees, for the city and for the community.
But it wasn't just his success that made him stand out - it was the way he treated people, respectful, engaging and sincere.
His work as President of SC Idar-Oberstein is particularly clear:
Hans Dieter Krieger was far more than just a leader. He was the heart and soul of the club, the driving force behind numerous developments and a role model for generations of sports enthusiasts.
With great personal commitment, vision and a deep connection to the region, he shaped the club and brought people together - on and off the pitch. Through his commitment, he shaped the development of the club.
The city of Idar-Oberstein honored this commitment and awarded him the Golden Badge of Honor on August 3, 2007.
On July 8, 2014, he was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit on Ribbon for his entrepreneurial achievements.
His work in his home town will remain unforgotten even after his death and we have lost a great personality in the town of Idar-Oberstein.
Lord Mayor Frank Frühauf emphasizes:
"Hans Dieter Krieger will always have a special place in our hearts and in the history of the town of Idar-Oberstein. He was a person who did not want to be in the foreground, but always led the way when it came to making a difference, and he was exemplary in his commitment to his home town.
His commitment, his successes and his warm character will be remembered by us all and we will honor his memory."
It is with deep sadness and gratitude that we bid farewell to Hans Dieter Krieger.
Our sincere sympathy and deepest condolences go to his wife and family.
Frank Frühauf
Lord Mayor
on behalf of the citizenship