Badminton Europe and German Technical Officials mourn the loss of Karl-Heinz Helmdach, who passed away in February 2015, 76 years of age.
 
Karl-Heinz Helmdach was one of the very best BWF Certificated umpires, and an excellent example for his colleagues, suitably terminating a long career in the chair in the medal matches of the Barcelona Olympics. Moreover, he was an able and constructive manager and served badminton in Europe as a member of the EBU Technical Committee all through the existence of this Committee from 1980 to 1993.
 
His role was the development and management of all European umpires, a duty he fulfilled with energy and diplomacy. Karl-Heinz – or Charly, as he was also known - contributed substantially to the development of the standard of umpiring in Germany and Europe.

Karl-Heinz Helmdach was also a good referee, firm but fair and always with an eye on the performance of the umpires. His pleasant personality and many qualities made him a highly appreciated colleague among international technical officials.
 
Condolences go from the European badminton community to his family.

Article by Torsten Berg.