On Monday 22nd of August our beloved former chairman Cees passed away. Together with Melissa Alacheff he set up our Foundation, more than 10 years ago. On the news of his passing she wrote:

“Cees brought his whole heart to his life and to his family, friends, and community. He gave himself generously and was a source of inspiration to many. He was often silent without words, but his presence spoke deeply and intensely. One could feel Cees. His presence was like a tree, solid with deep roots and wisdom. He lived with purpose and meaning and wanted to contribute and be a source of goodness in life. Of this, there is no doubt that he succeeded. He will be sorely missed, but his presence will still be felt by those whose lives he touched. Thank you, dear Cees, for … everything. May you rest now in deep peace and with satisfaction over a life well-lived.”

In all these years Cees gave himself fully in supporting many generations of students in their process of growth. In any organization there are rough patches and growing pains. Cees always approached these with positivity and lightheartedness. With a great sense of responsibility he took his place of chairman and fundraiser. With his new official position as managing director of the Netherlands Institute of Core Energetics he took a step back from his official role in the Foundation. His heart and wisdom stayed connected to the mission of the Foundation.

There would be no Foundation without Cees and it will not be the same without him. The words “what would Cees do?” will stay part of our fabric.

Thank you, dear Cees, for all you were and all you gave, to the Foundation and to all the students supported. You will be missed. We love you. 

Bert, Christiaan, Corinne, Riet and Wietse