Cross of Merit for Dr. Ernst Funck: A hero for Sulingen and the refugees

Cross of Merit for Dr. Ernst Funck: A hero for Sulingen and the refugees

In a moving ceremony in the old mayor's office in Sulingen, Dr. Ernst Funck was awarded the “Cross of Merit with Ribbon of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany”. District Administrator Volker Meyer praised the 80-year-old for his extraordinary commitment and tireless support for the community. “Your commitment is unsurpassed,” said Meyer, who presented Funck with the medal and the accompanying certificate.

Dr. Funck, co-founder of the “Church for Sulingen” foundation and long-time chairman of the board of trustees, has launched and led countless projects. Particularly noteworthy is his involvement in the Sulinger refugee initiative, where he has served as a medical contact for two decades and organizes numerous activities for refugees. “You know every refugee by name, and the refugees know you,” emphasized Meyer in his laudatory speech.

An evening full of gratitude

Mayor Patrick Bade described the award ceremony as a “memorable event” for Sulingen and praised Funck’s big heart and his unwavering belief in goodness. Pastor Michael Wendel and Hartmut Bublitz from the refugee initiative also joined in the congratulations and emphasized Funck's exemplary role in the community. The evening ended with the Irish blessing, sung by Christa Funck, and a buffet that reflected the cultural diversity of the guests.