With great sadness Democrats Abroad Munich shares the passing of John Henke, one of our most faithful and passionate volunteers. If you have been to any of our events in Munich, there is a good chance you spoke with John.

John was a most considerate man with a passion for doing good. He always had an open ear, the advice to go with it and the fitting joke to cheer you up. His way of charming the world into a better place was to make people smile and laugh. A trained clown, far-travelled veteran and electronic engineer he had immense knowledge to draw from and he was more than happy to give it on; in dance or in words…

He was the life of many a march or an evening and he embodied the spirit of reaching out to people. His tall silhouette framed by silvery long hair could often be spotted at the front of a march wearing a dapper top hat. Over the years John and his wife Kathleen sported a number of spectacular costumes always gathering and spreading good cheer. Among them John standing in for Uncle Sam during voter registration and resembling the best of him.

While Kathleen loved to work the “Get Out The Vote” stand, John thrived scouting the masses at Marienplatz. He would dive into the crowd, finding unregistered Americans by their accents. He’d then send them over to Kathleen to register to vote. His buoyant good cheer in welcoming one and all will be missed immensely. John, we thank you for your incredible dedication to our organization and us for the warmth you always exuded.

Now you are gone with the wind, travelling and exploring again…
May you rest in peace

We will see you again Mr. Galileo, in a better place - thx for being with us