Good morning, Ladies and Gentlemen.
I want to say a few words about our dear departed friend and my special friend Hans Breuer. I don’t want this to be too sad because Hans would not have wanted that. Let’s say it is a celebration of his life.
Hans was a big man in every way. Not only in stature, he had a big heart, a huge lust for life and a ferociously wide intelligence. Always learning, he was also very wise and knew what he knew and didn’t know.
Hans was a very kind and caring man, a great husband and father, who looked after his family and raised two very smart and independent sons. But perhaps hidden from most, he helped those in need while being a good listener to those with problems. I know that he gave me valuable advice from time to time.
I have mentioned Hans’ intelligence, and while I never knew his IQ, I do know that it was very high. If Hans got interested in a particular subject, he would study it until he quickly became an acknowledged expert.
Examples of this single-minded pursuit of knowledge are his addiction to the study and growth of carnivorous Nepenthes (Ni-Pen-Theeze) plants - I hope that I said that correctly, probably at times to the distraction of his family!
Another dedication was Hans’ great love of naturalism. Studying Taiwan’s birds and reptiles, he often guided others on snake-finding and bird-observation trips in the countryside.
For me, Hans was a lively conversationalist and a great breakfast partner – we were often gazed at by the patrons of various morning restaurants as Hans erupted in gales of infectious laughter. I’m quite sure many of them thought we were quite mad. Maybe we were, but what fun!
Hans and I often collaborated on joint culinary projects. One of his great loves was sharing the preparation and the gastronomical rewards. Recently, Hans had become interested in Mexican food. He would have informal parties from time to time, inviting us to explore and taste what he had cooked. It was always delicious—as long as you had an asbestos throat.
It is impossible to describe Hans Breuer in mere words—you had to know him personally to understand the man. Although his life was cut short, he was an outstanding individual to all who knew him and, to me, a valuable and great friend during his time with us.
As he passes over the rainbow bridge, Hans leaves his wife Lisa and sons Han Han and Karl, to whom we will always be grateful for sometimes sparing him to have some good old-fashioned great conversation and fun.
So let’s not be too sad; Hans is with us, still in our fondest memories and always will be."
