“Last Friday, we were stunned and remain deeply saddened to hear the terrible news of the sudden death of our First Deputy Mayor, Eric Neiseke. My closest leadership team, my wife, and I—as well as our entire city administration and our community—still cannot and do not want to accept or comprehend this, even today. We are all shocked and unspeakably sad. Eric Neiseke, who—at the young age of 38—had already earned my trust and the council’s recognition in June 2016, was much more than just a likable colleague and an outstanding leader. Over the past 10 years, he has become an important companion to me, a wise advisor, a very close confidant, and a supportive friend. I am proud that, since July 15, 2020, he has also served as my Deputy Mayor—someone on whom I could always rely without reservation. We were always able to discuss all professional and political issues openly and honestly, but we also shared moments of laughter and tears together. Eric Neiseke enriched our leadership team and his department with his remarkable personality and held us together. His sharp wit, his prudence and foresight, his down-to-earth nature, his respect for others, and his ability to laugh at himself made him truly one of a kind. Our First Deputy Mayor, Eric Neiseke, was quickly and warmly welcomed not only within our city administration. He and his wife, Gülbahar Neiseke—whom we also know and value as an outstanding colleague, both professionally and personally, as well as a trustworthy and highly capable department head—made Salzgitter their home out of deep conviction and affection for our city and left a lasting mark on our urban community.

Our First City Councilor, Eric Neiseke, was so approachable, so people-oriented, and always respectful in his dealings with everyone, both inside and outside our city hall.

He leaves behind a huge void that can never be filled. We are losing more than just an exceptionally competent elected official and Deputy Mayor; we are losing a person and a friend who has been with us for years and whom we will miss dearly. Our thoughts are with his wife and family!”