The Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development mourns the loss of its long-serving member of staff and colleague Fabian Siebeke, who has passed away suddenly and unexpectedly.

With his passing, the HNEE has lost a highly esteemed colleague, a highly skilled engineer and a person who, over many years, left a lasting mark on the university with his extensive technical knowledge, his willingness to help and his unique character.

His association with the HNEE began in 1998 when he embarked on his degree in Wood Science and Technology. After graduating in 2003, he joined the university in 2004, initially working on projects and later in the Faculty of Wood Science and Technology and Wood Engineering. From 2017, he was part of the Facilities, Grounds and Environmental Management Department, which became his professional home at the HNEE.

His exceptionally broad technical knowledge, his curiosity and his ability to develop solutions even for complex problems were particularly valued. He was a reliable source of advice and ideas, whose professional expertise was recognised far beyond his own department.

His immediate colleagues also share many personal memories of him. His enthusiasm for sharing knowledge and explaining technical concepts in a clear and accessible way earned him the affectionate nickname ‘our explainer’ amongst the team. We will remember his explanations on the whiteboard, as well as his sense of humour, our conversations and the many small gestures with which he enriched our daily working lives. His saying, ‘Knowing what you don’t necessarily need, but can know,’ epitomises his great curiosity and his joy in understanding and communicating.

Despite his professional dedication, his family held a special place in his heart. He also had a deep passion for hunting, and was actively involved in the Eberswalde Hunting Association.

Our deepest sympathies go to his wife, his children, his family and all those who were close to him.

The HNEE will remember Fabian Siebeke with gratitude.