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Euskirchen mourns: local journalist Dieter Ohnrich dies!
Dieter Ohnrich, a long-time local journalist in Euskirchen, died on October 23, 2025. Funeral service on November 14.
Euskirchen mourns: local journalist Dieter Ohnrich dies!
On November 1st, 2025, the news of a great loss reached the community in Euskirchen: Dieter Ohnrich, the long-standing deputy editorial director of the Euskirchen/Eifel local editorial team of the “Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger”, died on October 23rd at the age of 78 after a short, serious illness. Ohnrich not only leaves behind his wife Marie-Luise, to whom he was married for almost 50 years, but also three children and two grandchildren who will feel his loss deeply.
Dieter Ohnrich was a defining figure in Euskirchen local journalism. His editorial colleagues described him as humorous and helpful, qualities that should not be underestimated in the often hectic world of journalism. He worked in the editorial department for over 25 years and was characterized by his ability to keep a cool head even in stressful situations. This ability earned him the nickname “Mister Duden,” a tribute to his outstanding spelling skills.
A life for journalism
Born in Wolfgarten and raised in Kall, Ohnrich graduated from the municipal high school in Schleiden in the 1970s before studying law in Aachen. He began his journalistic career as a freelance journalist and joined the “Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger” in 1980. In May 1993 he took over the position of deputy editorial director and developed into an important cornerstone of the Euskirchen editorial team.
During his time, he reported critically on local politics in the Euskirchen district and was a committed advocate of regional culture. His keen interest in art, literature and classical music was reflected in his reports, showing that he was not only a journalist but also a passionate preserver of culture.
Ohnrich was a connoisseur of life: good food and fine wines were just as important to him as informing his readers. Through his journalistic work, he made a decisive contribution to shaping opinion in the region, an aspect that is always central to local journalism. This deals with local issues such as local politics, culture, sport and club life, and has a long history that goes back to the invention of printing, as Wikipedia impressively documents.
Farewell to a great journalist
The editorial team plans to honor Ohnrich's memory. The farewell will take place on November 14th at 2 p.m. in the parish church of St. Rochus in Strempt, followed by the burial of the urn in the cemetery in Strempt. It is a final act of respect for a man who has done so much for local journalism in Euskirchen.
Local journalism has an important role today, even if the challenges posed by digital formats are increasing. Ohnrich was a pioneer in the use of traditional media and beyond, and his legacy will live on in the Euskirchen community.
His passion and commitment to local reporting reminds us of the importance of local journalism, which remains essential despite all the changes in recent years. As the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger reports, his influence on the community will continue to be felt and his stories will live on in the hearts of many.