In 2024, the Netherlands and Belgium said goodbye to people who have left an indelible mark on the mobility sector.
Their contributions ranged from direct influence on transportation infrastructure and aviation to indirect contributions through culture, science and politics. Below is an overview of their lives and legacy.
Pim Sierks (1932–2024), a Dutch pilot, was known for his heroic actions in 1974 when he evacuated Japanese terrorists from the Netherlands. This action not only averted a crisis, but also introduced new safety standards in aviation. Sierks is praised for his courage and his ability to remain calm in extreme situations.
Jan Plesman (1945–2024), grandson of KLM founder Albert Plesman, contributed to the international reputation of Dutch aviation. As a pilot and representative of the Plesman dynasty, he was committed to the growth of KLM and to the further development of the Netherlands as an aviation hub.
Erwin Nypels (1933–2024), a Dutch politician, was at the forefront of sustainable mobility policy. His work stimulated public transport and a focus on environmentally friendly alternatives such as bicycles and electric vehicles. His vision has had a lasting impact on current Dutch mobility policy.
Paul van Gelder (1947–2024), better known as “Harkie”, combined his career as a radio presenter with his passion for road safety and infrastructure. Although he was best known for his voice on the radio, he had a strong opinion on mobility issues and regularly brought them up in his programs.
Henk Herrenberg (1938–2024), Surinamese politician and diplomat, played a key role in transport projects between Suriname and the Netherlands. He promoted economic cooperation and was a bridge builder between the two countries, especially in the field of infrastructure and accessibility.
Frans Körver (1937–2024), although mainly known as a footballer and trainer, contributed to the development of sports infrastructure in the Netherlands. This had a positive impact on regional accessibility and the accessibility of facilities, which indirectly contributed to mobility.
The influence of Rik Van Looy (1933–2024), the Belgian “Emperor of Herentals”, extended beyond cycling. His immense popularity helped to anchor cycling in Belgian culture, making it not only a sport but also an important means of transportation.
Miet Smet (1943–2024), Belgian politician, was known for her commitment to environmentally friendly mobility and road safety. Her work led to improvements in sustainable transport solutions in Belgium.
International figures such as Federico Mayor Zaragoza (1934–2024), former Director-General of UNESCO, and Don Martina (1935–2024), former Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles, had an indirect influence on the mobility sector. Zaragoza stimulated global awareness for sustainable mobility, while Martina advocated transport policy between the Antilles and the Netherlands.
Former leaders such as Desi Bouterse (1945–2024) also left their mark on Suriname's infrastructure and mobility. Despite his controversial political career, he had a lasting impact on transport relations with the Netherlands.
Visual contributions to mobility came from people like Emiel Vermeir (1939–2024), who documented the Belgian railway network, and Jan Segers (1929–2024), whose music was inspired by train travel and mobility. Their work shaped the perception of transport in Belgium in unique ways.
In the Netherlands, Erik Brus (1964–2024) provided in-depth analyses of urban mobility, while Hugo Verbrugh (1937–2024) provided philosophical reflections on the ethical aspects of transport choices. Ruut Veenhoven (1942–2024), known for his happiness research, investigated the relationship between mobility and well-being.
The contributions of these individuals have enriched the mobility sector in the Netherlands and Belgium. Their vision and work continue to inspire future generations.
Source: Wikipedia
