With profound shock and deep sadness, we share the news of the passing of Rolf Losken on 14 October 2026. Rolf was our Ambassador for South Africa – a truly exceptional human being, an outstanding personality and a companion deeply cherished by us all.
Everyone who had the privilege of knowing Rolf and working alongside him experienced a person of extraordinary kindness, warmth and reliability. His unwavering optimism, his drive and his special gift for always looking forward with confidence defined everything he did. We will never forget his characteristic response whenever a challenge arose: “We’ll make a plan.” This phrase embodied his zest for life, his determination and his unique ability to inspire others and bring people along with him.
A Life’s Work of Compassion
For his outstanding social engagement and lifelong commitment, Rolf Losken received numerous prestigious honours. Among them were the HOPE Award for his tireless humanitarian dedication, as well as the rare Black Pin from Education for Life – distinctions that bear witness to his extraordinary life’s work and his deep compassion for his fellow human beings.
Throughout his career, Rolf was also honoured with every distinction of the Intercoiffure Mondial Chevalerie in recognition of his tremendous contribution to the organisation: from the rank of Knight to that of Commander, as well as Personality of the Year and the Life Achievement Award, culminating in the highest distinction of all, the Grand Cross, which was presented to him in 2023 in his home country of South Africa.
A Loyal Friend with a Heart of Gold
Rolf leaves behind an immense void – not only professionally and socially, but above all on a deeply personal and human level. He was a man of true character – honest, sincere, warm-hearted and profoundly good. His loss weighs heavily on us all. Over the years, he became far more to us than a valued colleague and companion: he was an extraordinary, loyal friend with a heart of gold, someone we could count on in every situation in life.
Rolf Losken left his footprints behind – footprints of courage, humanity and affection that will endure and that we will honour forever.
Our deepest condolences and heartfelt thoughts are with his beloved wife, Marijke, and his daughter, Lisa, as well as with the entire family during these incredibly difficult times. We mourn his passing in silence and with deep gratitude for the time we were privileged to share with him.
Rest in peace, dear Rolf. You will be missed more than words can say.
Peter F. Pfister, President Intercoiffure Mondial
Jens Dagné, President Education for Life
Dan Studer, Vice-President Education for Life
