17-10 2016 00:39
wrote:
It took me some time to finally write a message on this page as I did not want to want to say a final goodbye. There are still moments when I pick up my phone to send a text message or app to Franz, only to realise that it is not possible anymore. I first met Franz when I joined the Trimbos-institute back in 1998. We worked together in the International Affairs unit for almost eight years on various international projects in the field of illicit drugs in a range of countries. We continued working together after I had moved to the European Commission, among others on two important studies into the international and EU drug markets. Over the years we became friends. I admired his energy and his directness. During dinners in Brussels or Amsterdam he could tell about his latest projects and many, many journeys, praise the Concerto record store, talk about the last good restaurant in which he had eaten (we did not always agree on the rating) and we could talk at length about drug policy, politics and people in general. But most of all he talked with pride about his son Maarten, who he had seen growing up into a self-confident and intelligent young man. Like many people on this memorial page I miss Franz' presence and dry humor. His departure leaves a void in many lives. I wish all the best for Maarten and for Lidija, his partner. Maurice.
17-10 2016 00:39
wrote:
It took me some time to finally write a message on this page as I did not want to want to say a final goodbye. There are still moments when I pick up my phone to send a text message or app to Franz, only to realise that it is not possible anymore. I first met Franz when I joined the Trimbos-institute back in 1998. We worked together in the International Affairs unit for almost eight years on various international projects in the field of illicit drugs in a range of countries. We continued working together after I had moved to the European Commission, among others on two important studies into the international and EU drug markets. Over the years we became friends. I admired his energy and his directness. During dinners in Brussels or Amsterdam he could tell about his latest projects and many, many journeys, praise the Concerto record store, talk about the last good restaurant in which he had eaten (we did not always agree on the rating) and we could talk at length about drug policy, politics and people in general. But most of all he talked with pride about his son Maarten, who he had seen growing up into a self-confident and intelligent young man. Like many people on this memorial page I miss Franz' presence and dry humor. His departure leaves a void in many lives. I wish all the best for Maarten and for Lidija, his partner. Maurice.
