Josef Deimer, long-serving mayor of Landshut, dies at 90

Josef Deimer, the former long-serving mayor of Landshut, has died at the age of 90. Deimer served as mayor for 35 years, having first been elected in 1970 at the age of 33, making him Germany’s youngest mayor at the time.

A prominent figure in Bavarian politics, Deimer was known for his close connection to citizens, personally hosting approximately 40,000 people during his office hours. He was noted for his meticulous habit of recording citizen concerns on small notes, which eventually formed an extensive archive of the city’s history.

Beyond his municipal role, Deimer served as a member of the Bavarian Landtag from 1966 to 1970 and was a member of the Bavarian Senate between 1982 and 1999. He was recognized as a visionary leader who championed social, educational, and environmental issues, including early opposition to nuclear power.

Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder praised Deimer as one of the most influential municipal politicians in the history of the state, describing him as a courageous and independent leader who steadfastly advocated for local interests.