Our former chairman and honorary member Herman van Hemeldonck passed away on February 8 at the age of 93. Herman (1931 - 2025) was chairman of the TVK in the eighties and early nineties. He has never had a ship other than a Trintella in his life. Started with a Trintella I in 1969, successively a II and a IV, ending in 1978 with the 44 he had until its end. So he was tried and tested in the Trintella world. Herman had been a notary in Olen since 1959, so he was strong in the world of rules and formalities. Sailing gave him the energy to be able to carry out his busy professional life as a notary. He did not get his eloquence from a stranger. His father was a "man of letters" and honorary citizen of the town of Vosselaar. His knowledge and love of history did not come naturally either. He was one of the founders of the Local History Circle De Linde (which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year) and to which he continued to dedicate himself into old age. He charmed many with his speeches in which he always managed to mention historical facts and especially to sketch the solidarity of people of Brabant and Flemings.
Over the years, a strong bond with the TVK was built up and the Trintella meetings were sacred to him. He only missed a few and that only because of the advanced age. Several of his best friends came from the TVK, such as Jan Greve, Jules Coppens, Pierre Valkenborgh, Karl Heinz Knapp and Anne and Riekie Wever.
He has always enjoyed chairing the chairmanship. Herman was not only a dedicated chairman, but also a source of inspiration for many. His erudition, eloquence, knowledge of history and dedication have left a lasting impression in our association. We remember his tireless efforts, frequent presence, organizational talent and the many contributions he made to make our organization flourish. We will miss Herman and the Groene Swaen at our meetings. The TVK owes Herman a lot of gratitude. Herman sail well.
