URGENT UPDATE: The royal family has issued a heartfelt tribute following the passing of Holocaust survivor Manfred Goldberg, aged 95, who dedicated his life to Holocaust education. His death was confirmed earlier today, sending waves of sorrow throughout the community and sparking reflections on his extraordinary legacy.
In a poignant message, King Charles III expressed deep sadness over Goldberg’s passing, stating, “My wife and I were most deeply saddened to hear the news of Manfred Goldberg’s recent death.” He emphasized the importance of Goldberg’s story, highlighting his role as a living testament to the atrocities of the Holocaust. “He became an integral part of the fabric of our nation; his extraordinary dignity, resolve, and courage an example to us all,” the King remarked.
Goldberg, originally from Kassel, Germany, survived unimaginable horrors during the Holocaust, including time spent in the Stutthof concentration camp as a slave laborer. After the war, he moved to the UK in September 1946, where he became a passionate advocate for Holocaust education, sharing his experiences with countless young people.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, who had met Goldberg on several occasions, also released an emotional statement. They noted, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Manfred Goldberg. His tireless work to educate young people about the Holocaust will never be forgotten.” Their tribute is a reminder of the profound impact Goldberg made through his storytelling and education.
The Holocaust Educational Trust described Goldberg as “truly extraordinary,” emphasizing his commitment to confronting antisemitism and ensuring that future generations remember the horrors of the Holocaust. Chief Executive Karen Pollock highlighted his legacy through the Trust’s innovative program, “Testimony 360,” which uses digital eyewitness testimony and virtual reality to engage young learners.
Goldberg’s life story is a powerful narrative of resilience. He was deported to the Riga Ghetto in 1941 and later forced into labor at Stutthof until liberation by the British Army in May 1945. After reuniting with his father, he completed an engineering degree and dedicated his life to Holocaust remembrance.
His influence extended beyond the classroom. In January 2022, he met the then Prince of Wales, who praised Goldberg’s efforts to keep Holocaust stories alive. Goldberg’s contributions were not only educational but also deeply personal, as he returned to Germany in 2018 to honor his brother, who was murdered during the Holocaust.
As tributes continue to pour in, the impact of Manfred Goldberg’s life and work is being felt far and wide. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to confront hatred and promote understanding.
The royal family’s heartfelt messages reflect a national mourning for a man who turned his tragic past into a beacon of hope and education. The community is encouraged to remember Goldberg’s teachings and ensure that the lessons of history are never forgotten.
As developments unfold, the commitment to preserving Holocaust memory remains stronger than ever, with calls for continued education and awareness. The world has lost a remarkable advocate, and his absence will be deeply felt.
