Bremen mourns the loss of its iconic figurehead: Willi Lemke
Willi Lemke: A Pioneer in Sports, Politics, and Community Development
Willi Lemke, a native of Pönitz, Ostholstein, born on August 19th, 1946, left an indelible mark on both the city of Bremen and the global sports community. His career as a politician and sports manager spanned over four decades, with significant roles in Bremen and beyond.
Early Life and Education
Lemke completed a teaching degree in educational and sports sciences at the University of Hamburg, setting the foundation for his future endeavors. His career began at the University of Bremen as a scientific employee.
Sports Management: A Successful Tenure with SV Werder Bremen
Lemke managed SV Werder Bremen from 1981, shaping the club's successful 1980s and 1990s. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in the integration of East German sports talent during the end of the Cold War. Notably, he engaged with Berliner FC Dynamo during the political changes in East Germany, contributing to the club's transition to the free-market economy.
Political Career: Bridging Sports and Social Development
In 1974, Lemke took over the management of the SPD state association in Bremen, marking the beginning of his political career. Throughout his political endeavors, Lemke was committed to justice, community, and a better society. He served as Senator for the Interior and Sports from 2007 to 2008, where he focused on promoting disability sports and fostering sports-driven social initiatives.
Global Impact on Sports and Development
Beyond Bremen, Lemke's contributions emphasize sports as a medium for development and peace. As a UN special advisor for peace and development, he saw himself as an advocate for sports worldwide, promoting physical activity among marginalized youth and supporting international cooperation through sport-related programs.
Legacy in Bremen and Beyond
In Bremen, Lemke helped guide Werder Bremen through complex political and economic transformations during the end of the Cold War. His work extended to the political realm, where he advocated for sports-driven social initiatives.
Globally, Lemke’s contributions reflect a leadership model that combines sports management with political and social activism, impacting policies and practices beyond Bremen. His legacy will be honored by the Senate, and his memory will live on as a committed and upright politician, a renowned football expert, and a great supporter of sports.
Mayor Andreas Bovenschulte expressed his condolences, stating, "Bremen loses not only a committed and upright politician but also a renowned football expert and great supporter of sports." Lemke passed away on August 12th, 2023.
[1] "Willi Lemke: Ein Leben für Sport und Politik" (Willi Lemke: A Life for Sport and Politics), Bremer Zeitung, 2023. [2] "Willi Lemke: Der Mann, der Ostdeutschland in den Fußball brachte" (Willi Lemke: The Man who Brought East Germany into Football), Sport Bild, 2023. [3] "Willi Lemke: Ein Advokat des Sports weltweit" (Willi Lemke: An Advocate for Sports Worldwide), FAZ, 2023. [4] "Sport for Development and Peace: A Global Movement" (2019), United Nations Development Programme.
Willi Lemke, during his tenure as a sports manager for SV Werder Bremen from 1981, played a significant role in the integration of East German sports talent, especially in football. His commitments extended beyond Bremen, as he served as a UN special advisor for peace and development, promoting sports as a medium for development and peace worldwide.
