Remembering Eberhard Haelbig

It is with sorrow and a heavy heart that I share with you all the dreadful news that Eberhard Haelbig has passed away. He passed the morning of November 12th, at his home in Eisenach, Germany with his wife Leona and daughter Sophia by his side. He always referred to them both as his “golden girls”.  

Eb has been a very active participant and vital member of the KMHS family, acting as both our historian and our local contact. I first met Eb in September 2004 after the Kassel Mission 60th Anniversary tribute in Friedlos. He took a very genuine interest in meeting and speaking with my father, Frank, who was making his last visit. You could see Eb’s passion for the history of the war, his interest in the archaeological aspects, and his strong curiosity around the day’s events in 1944.

He was instrumental in the KMHS group participation at this year’s 75th anniversary event. He worked diligently with Jerry and Susie Pitman and Guenter Lemke in both suggesting and in coordinating much of our itinerary. As well, he worked with the local community leaders in Gerstungen in coordinating our visit to the local museum and the Bolin crash site memorial. He served, with Guenter, as our “tour guide” providing the group with thoughtful narrative and insights about the crash sites and the surrounding area on our tour day. The KMHS organization formally recognized Eb for his achievements at our group dinner the evening of September 26th.

Eb very generously gave his time and energy so that the Kassel Mission legacy might continue for future generations. Whether it was his academic research on the air war or playing host to many visitors who have come to visit the area over the years, he contributed so much to the legacy. He was rightfully proud of his museum, in and of itself, an amazing accomplishment and all by his own labors. The archeological relics that Eberhard put together for display have been meticulously cared for and wonderfully preserved.  It has become the “official” museum for the Kassel Mission Historical Society.

The spirit of your efforts will live forever and we thank you, Eb, for all that you have done. We will miss your passion, your scholarship and your friendship… Rest in Peace.

Note: Eberhard’s passion and thoughtfulness were exemplified when, earlier this year, he sent a WWII veteran, Capt. Alan Carlton, a piece of his war plane as a surprise gift for his 100th birthday. The San Diego Union Tribune covered the story. You can read about it here: Birthday surprise for WWII pilot reunited with pieces of his past