Ted,

alas, the moment of our parting has come!

Ours was a lifelong friendship of more than fifty-five years - looking back, years full of fond memories.

We first met in the autumn term of 1968 at Slough Grammar School: you as Head of the German Department, I as the foreign language assistant. Ever since, there was hardly a year in which we did not meet at least once, either in Britain or in Germany. On numerous travels we showed each other our countries. We enjoyed countless concerts and theatre performances. Once or twice I was able to persuade you to mount a bike, something you would never have done in England, as you told us.

When our sons spent terms at Forest School, you took on the job as their guardian. By taking part in our family life, you naturally became a part of our family. You shared with us joyous as well as sad events, a wedding, a silver wedding, birthday parties and even funerals. You belonged to us and we were proud to have you in our midst.

You shared with us your your activities with Friendly Bombs and your theatre projects. Many a time on the last day of a visit to Hamburg, you insisted we should go and buy typical German sweets and biscuits for the members at home.

Your excellent knowledge of German, your unassuming and kind manners made you a popular guest at get-togethers with friends. They, too, badly miss you.

Farewell then, Ted, and thank you for your friendship and the unforgettable time we spent together!

Kurt and family