In Uckermark: Farewell to Dr. Joachim Benthin – A legacy of stability

In Uckermark: Farewell to Dr. Joachim Benthin – A legacy of stability

On June 21, 2025, a memorial event for Dr. Joachim Benthin, who worked as district administrator until his retirement in January 2002. The former district administrator, who headed the district from 1993 to 2002, died on April 20, 2023 at the age of 85 surrounded by his family. At the event, friends and companions remembered his remarkable life story and his lasting contribution to the region.

For some, Benthin was not just a politician but a pillar of the community. During the event, District Administrator Karina Dörk (CDU) praised his tireless efforts, which were noticeable both during the district's wedding crisis and during the political change in 1989. She recalled the challenges of the 1990s, when Benthin managed to create an atmosphere of listening and problem-solving. He himself had once encouraged her to run for the district administrator position, which underlines his instinct for up-and-coming talent.

A life for the culture and the people

Frank Bretsch, deputy district administrator and former parliamentary group leader of the SPD, highlighted Benthin's patience and consistency in his speech. He made it clear that the late district administrator often found solutions quietly and confidently at a time when many were discussing conflicts publicly. In this context, Jürgen Bischof, former district administrator, also praised Benthin's commitment to the cultural landscape of the Uckermark. The event was accompanied musically by the Prussian Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Jürgen Bischof, which rounded off the special atmosphere.

The memorial service was not only an occasion to remember, but also an opportunity for the community to gather and pay their respects. The audience came in large numbers to pay their last respects to this extraordinary person. The most emotional station of the event was the presentation of a portrait of Dr. Benthin to his sons, Thomas and Matthias. The latter thanked him for the memorial service and spoke of the fulfilling life that his father had led.

The historical context of the transition

Recently, the reappraisal of the change in 1989 has become increasingly important again, which is not least supported by the growing scientific discussions about these periods. Studies on the “long history of the transition” deal with the social and political change in the new federal states and consider, among other things, the influence of personalities such as Dr. Joachim Benthin, who built bridges between two systems during the border period. The social changes after reunification are a central theme; This often highlights the tension between old and new ideas. This reflection shows that the history of reunification did not end with the fall of the Wall, but rather had far-reaching effects on people's lives. Many positive experiences of this time are often discussed in private conversations, even if they often receive less attention in public memory.

The memorial event for Dr. Joachim Benthin on June 21st was not only a tribute to an individual life, but also a contribution to the overarching culture of remembrance that addresses the challenges and successes of the last decades. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

For further information and a detailed review of Dr. Joachim Benthin, visit the following links: Northern Courier, Tantower, and Federal Agency for Civic Education.