Willi Lemke, a prominent figure in Bremen and former football manager of SV Werder Bremen, passed away at the age of 77 due to complications from a brain hemorrhage.

Werder Bremen expressed their condolences, with club president Hubertus Hess-Grunewald calling Lemke one of the greatest figures in the club's history.

Lemke served as Werder Bremen's manager from 1981 to 1999, leading the team to significant successes, including Bundesliga championships in 1988 and 1993, and the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup victory in 1992.

After his managerial career, he transitioned to the supervisory board of Werder Bremen, serving as chairman from 2005 until his resignation in 2014.

From 2008 to 2016, Lemke served as a UN special advisor for sports, showcasing his commitment to using sports as a platform for diplomacy.

His legacy includes a dedication to humanitarian issues and sportsmanship, emphasizing the power of sports to build bridges among people.

Uli Hoeneß, honorary president of FC Bayern, expressed his sadness over Lemke's passing, acknowledging their past rivalries but also highlighting their eventual good relationship.

His family expressed their sorrow over his death, recognizing him as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Lemke was known for his impactful contributions in sports, politics, and society, advocating for dialogue over conflict.

Hess-Grunewald described Lemke as innovative, passionate, and ambitious, while also highlighting his human qualities and reconciliatory nature.

He played a significant role in bringing talented players like Rudi Völler and Karl-Heinz Riedle to Werder Bremen, helping them develop into world-class athletes.

Lemke's passing has sparked reflections on his impact on German football and the dynamics of his longstanding rivalry with Uli Hoeneß.