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Augsburg mourns the loss of two esteemed figures

Duo Josef 'Joe' Ittner and Rico Strauss left indelible imprints on the city through their individual traits and journeys.

Augsburg experiences the departure of two iconic figures
Augsburg experiences the departure of two iconic figures

Augsburg mourns the loss of two esteemed figures

Joe Ittner, a Pioneer in Augsburg's American Community, Passes Away at 99

Joe Ittner, a beloved figure in Augsburg's American community, passed away on July 30, 2025, just days before his 100th birthday. Born as Josef Ittner in Neudorf-Herrlich, Sudeten German on September 21, 1925, he spent the latter part of his life in Diedorf, Germany.

Throughout his life, Joe felt very much at home in the Augsburg Marine Club and "America in Augsburg" e.V., where he was known for his warm personality and dedication to fostering relationships between Germans and Americans. In fact, in 2005, he successfully convinced US soldiers from Wiesbaden to participate in the Plärrer parade, bringing a touch of American culture to the event.

Joe's Americanisation extended beyond his name, as he adopted the moniker "Joe" during his life. His impact on the community was felt long after his name change, as he continued to be an integral part of the local American community.

The news of Joe's passing comes shortly after the death of another notable figure in Augsburg's community, "Magic Rico". Magic Rico, whose real name was Erich Strauss, was a magician who lived in Augsburg and was an enthusiastic advocate of free-body culture. He often visited the Kaisersee and attended an AJ publishing event in early 2025. Magic Rico passed away at the age of 84, although his exact birthday is not provided in the available information.

After the war, Joe found a new home with the Americans, serving in the "Labor Service". He travelled to the United States several times, and his love for the country was evident in his dedication to fostering relationships between Germans and Americans in his community.

Joe Ittner's passing marks the end of an era for Augsburg's American community, but his legacy will live on in the relationships he fostered and the impact he had on the city. He will be deeply missed.

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