In memory of Johannes Katzan

With him, we lose a beloved friend and colleague, someone who was not only part of our organisation, but one of those who helped shape it. With intellect, passion and an unwavering sense of humanity, Johannes left his mark on our union.

Johannes was a trade unionist by conviction: astute, wholehearted, and quietly but steadfastly determined. He believed in the power of dialogue, in the promise of reason, and in the dignity of every person. He knew that progress must never be an end in itself, but must serve people. This guiding principle ran like a thread through all his thinking and doing.

Johannes was someone who brought people together. He could hold opposing views, turn tension into something constructive, and build trust. His calm, balancing manner carried weight because it was rooted in deep inner conviction.

Johannes was, at heart, a profoundly caring person. He looked where others looked away. He helped without asking. He offered his hand without hesitation. His solidarity was not a gesture, but a way of being. Anyone who knew him understood: when Johannes was there, you were not alone.

His loss leaves a deep void and cannot be put into words. And yet what he leaves us remains: the memory of a person who, with a clear mind, a warm heart and a steady stance, embodied what IG Metall stands for at its core: solidarity, justice, humanity.

Our thoughts are with his family, with his friends, with his colleagues in the workplaces, and with all those who were close to him. Johannes will be missed as a colleague, as a companion on the journey, as a friend. We will carry on his work with the same conviction, the same courage, the same humanity.

Johannes, you will remain in our hearts and in our work.