Today I received the sad news that Hein de Haan died recently. Having visited his community, Vrijburcht (meaning free castle) in Steigereiland, in Amsterdam in May, met this man and got an insight into his work and legacy, I recognise the contribution he has made to community, affordable housing and the philosophy of empowerment and equity that lies behind it. He was a man who dedicated himself to life-affirming change and demonstrated people power. It was a privilege to meet him.
The Citizens Summit Amsterdam published this obituary which has been translated from the Dutch into English and other personal memories of this amazing man.
Photo from Citizen’s Summit Amsterdam
On 4 August unexpectedly Hein de Haan deceased. We are very sad. On Friday there was a warm goodbye to him on New cemetery in North Amsterdam, with his family, friends, comrades and many others.
Hein means a lot to Amsterdam, as an architect, if involved townsman, as a human being. He also traveled the world, made friends and worked to put his ideals with others in action. Do not sit on your hands.
When we got him as one of the first asked to be an ambassador of the Citizens’ Summit Amsterdam, he said yes right. “The uprising should be supported!” He also thought it to find a suitable location and he made time to be present at the start of the registration, a few weeks before the citizens summit. On 6 June, he helped take the minutes throughout the day at one of the round tables, busy typing on a tablet. And pressure meediscussiërend course!
Jaap Draaisma Urban Resort said Friday nicely: “We will continue with your ideals!” Good luck to the family and friends to the processing of the loss.
The volunteers of the Citizens’ Summit Amsterdam
Giselle Wilkinson 
Sorry for the loss of your friend. It was good that you know him. xx
Kind Regards
Margi O’ Connell bioregionguide@gmail.com Twitter: @bioregionguide Sunshine Coast Australia 0476609146 Skype +61 0756410162