Oberaudorf Mourns Loss of Hannes Rechenauer, Charts course for future of Hocheck Mountain Railway
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A pivotal figure in teh Bavarian community of Oberaudorf has passed, leaving a legacy of dedication to both local governance and the beloved Hocheck mountain railway. The transition of leadership following the death of Hannes Rechenauer on July 19th at the age of 60 is now underway, with plans established to ensure the continuation of his key initiatives.
A Community Pillar Remembered
Hannes Rechenauer was a deeply embedded presence in Oberaudorf for decades, serving as a local council member, the managing director of a family-owned fashion and traditional costume house, and the driving force behind the Hocheck mountain railway. Beyond his official roles, he was known for his personal support of family and friends, leaving a notable void in the community. “There is hardly anyone in the municipality of Oberaudorf who did not know Hannes Rechenauer,” according to local reports.
Transition of Leadership in Oberaudorf
The administrative transition is already in motion. Virgil Funk, as the designated successor from the CSU, has been sworn in to Rechenauer’s position on the local council, taking the oath of office on july 29th before Mayor Matthias Bernhardt. This ensures continuity in local governance during a period of mourning and adjustment.
Family Business to Continue
The Rechenauer family business, a cornerstone of Oberaudorf’s cultural identity, will remain operational. “It all stays as usual,” assured Ursula Rechenauer, the deceased’s wife, who has experience managing the company.She will be supported by her son, John, as they continue the tradition of the fashion and traditional costume house.
Securing the Future of the Hocheck Mountain railway
The fate of the Hocheck mountain railway, Rechenauer’s “heart project,” was a primary concern following his passing. He spearheaded efforts in 2002 to prevent the railway’s closure, transforming it into a major attraction for the community. “There he put so much energy into it and made the adventure mountain to what he is today,” Ursula Rechenauer stated.
Currently, the railway will continue operating as before, with Simon Berger, the existing managing director alongside Rechenauer, assuming full commercial duty. “The company continues as normal as before,” Berger confirmed,acknowledging the challenge but expressing his commitment to maintaining operations in the short term.
However, a long-term solution is needed to secure the railway’s future. Berger emphasized the difficulty in finding an individual possessing both strong business acumen and the necessary state-certified managerial qualifications. “. A chart detailing the required qualifications for the position would be beneficial.”
Despite this challenge, Ursula Rechenauer remains optimistic, citing the strength of the team Rechenauer assembled. “He built a fantastic team there that will continue to take care of the Hocheck now,” she believes.
The idyllic climatic health resort of oberaudorf, nestled at the foot of the Hocheck, will undoubtedly feel the impa
