On November 16, 2001, Günther Rosipal - known to a large part of the community on this website since several years passed away.  Through his devotion for the Grünherzgeschwader, JG 54 in general and the life of late Hannes Trautloft, Günther has given an invaluable and unforgettable contribution to the history of WW II aviation.  Günther, a multifaceted personality, told us of how he had become fascinated of Hannes Trautloft's personality when he attended the progressive Hermann-Lietz-Schule - the same school as Trautloft had attended.  In this modern era, we first came into contact with Günther through the Internet and Bob Wartburg's JG 54 Grünherz Site.  Since the start of this site, Günther had provided Bob Wartburg's JG 54 Grünherz Site with an invaluable assistance.  Through Bob, we made contact with Günther in 1997.  From 1998 onward followed a regular series of research trips to Germany, tutored by the tireless Günther.  Though Günther, we were able to approach not only the history of the Luftwaffe from a personal angle, but also to meet several of the pilot veterans - and to meet them on a personal basis, tutored by Günther.  For many years, Günther worked for the Hannover-Laatzen Aviation Museum in his hometown Hannover, and he has rendered an invaluable work for this museum.

Although Günther was occupied with the history of war, he never became occupied with war per se, but with the human beings trapped by war.  His interest in WW II aviation was dictated by an interest in personal fates.  To Günther, a human life was more valuable than anything else, regardless of time.  We will never forget the occasion when Günther showed us a film of an aircraft archaeology; when the film showed the small piece attached to the pilot's seat was dug out, Günther turned to us with tears in his eyes.  "That was a man," he said.

One of the happiest moments in Günther's recent years was when Hans-Ekkehard Bob agreed to publish Trautloft's diary.  Thirteen months ago, Günther received the terrible news that he had lung cancer.  Although Günther received the unselfish support from many friends, and the best medical expertise, fate could not be altered.  During his final months, Günther worked hard to complete the editing of Hannes Trautloft's memoirs - which he managed to fulfill only a few weeks ago.  To his weary last breath, Günther continued to inspire us all and at the same time urge all fellow researchers to contribute to the history of Luftwaffe.  And so typical of Günther, one of his last words to us was a promise that after he had passed away he would keep a watchful eye for us all.  Günther Rosipal, a devoted husband, father, architect, musician, historian, and a dear friend, will live in our memory forever.  The publication of Hannes Trautloft's memoirs will serve as a memory of Günther Rosipal as well. We will stay indebted to Günther.

Christer Bergström, Claes Sundin

It is safe to say that the JG 54 webpage would not be what it is today without the significant help of Gunther.I'll never forget the day when I received the first e-mail from Gunther after the fledgling website was put up. Only a man of Gunther's character and spirit would, without prompting, e-mail a complete stranger across the Atlantic and unequivocally offer to provide assistance and guidance.  Those of you who have downloaded the JG 54 Loss List can thank Gunther. Seeing the large Excel file only gives a hint to the number of hours Gunther spent compiling the list. The write-ups on Hannes Trautloft and Hans-Ekkehard Bob are Gunther's narratives. Many of you who frequent the Ruy Horta's Luftwaffe Discussion Board will recall how Gunther was always there to provide insight or answer questions regarding JG 54.I am happy to have known Gunther, albeit only a few brief years. I consider him a friend and my JG 54 mentor.  Gunther and his tireless efforts will be missed. The aviation community is diminished by his absence.I newly dedicate this webpage to Gunther's memory and his wish that the men who served with the Grunherzgeschwader not be forgotten.  Rest in peace Gunther, the men of JG 54 and yourself will be remembered.

Horrido Gunther!

Bob Wartburg