Grief for former mayor Stingl: Graz said goodbye to a legend

Grief for former mayor Stingl: Graz said goodbye to a legend

On June 17, 2025, the funeral service for the former mayor Alfred Stingl took place in Graz, who died on May 29 at the age of 86. The ceremony attracted numerous mourners, including citizens, politicians and artists. The Mayor of Graz Elke Kahr (KPÖ) and Peter Grabensberger were among the speakers, while Franz Küberl, former Caritas president, held the grave speech. Many of those present lingered silently in front of the coffin and expressed their sympathy in different forms, from quiet prayer to emotional statements. An older lady who took part in the funeral service reported that it was difficult for her to attend the ceremony, but it was an urgent need for her.

The partial slip, which was designed in the church at the Graz central cemetery, showed the impressive Dachstein massif from the Ramsau and adorned a quote from the Dalai Lama about love and compassion. This refers to Stingl's remarkable connection to spiritual and social issues during his term.

a legacy of integration and innovation

Alfred Stingl was born in a working -class family on May 28, 1939 and experienced the horrors of the Second World War in his childhood. After graduating from school, he started an apprenticeship as a document in the Leykam printing house. In 1962 he joined the "young generation" of the Styrian SPÖ. His political rise began in 1968 with his election to the local council, and soon he took over the youth department as a city council in 1973. On January 10, 1985, Stingl was finally praised as the mayor of Graz.

stingl's almost 18-year term was characterized by an integrative policy that brought all Grazer on board. Under his leadership, the old town of Graz received the UNESCO World Heritage Status, a milestone that also became a reason for many cultural events and programs in the city. The EU Culture Capital Year 2003 in Graz is largely due to its initiative, as well as the reconstruction of the Graz synagogue, which was burned down in 1938.

his commitment beyond politics as a social ombudsman and presidium member of the "Styrian Autumn" shows how much Stingl was anchored in the city's social and cultural landscape. He will be remembered as a popular mayor across party borders.

Graz and the world heritage

Alfred Stingl's merits not only come into play in his politics, but also in urban development that Graz has shaped in recent years by various initiatives. As part of numerous events that celebrate the world heritage in the city, the importance of the historic old town will continue to be emphasized. On the occasion of the European Monument Day, which is celebrated every April 18, the city of Graz organizes different programs to make the world heritage more tangible for students and the population. Workshops and culinary experiences promote awareness of the city's cultural treasures that Stingl promoted so successfully during his term.

Alfred Stingl remains unforgettable. His role as a "bridge builder" for the Graz population will live on in the hearts of many people. The funeral service on his last path shows the great legacy he leaves, and the valuable memories that make time as mayor.