Léon Melchior - founder of the famous Zangersheide stud farm and stud book - has passed away, at the age of 88. The sad announcement came from Zangersheide today, that issued the following statement on their website: 

"It is with deep sadness, but also with the finest memories, that we inform you of the decease of Léon Noel Melchior. Léon Melchior died last night, age 88, at home in Lanaken in the presence of his family. 

Léon Melchior was a great partner, father and grandfather for his family. The business world remembers him as a dynamic and successful entrepreneur. For the world of the horse sport he was an example and a pioneer. His Studfarm Zangersheide in Lanaken and breeding sport horses were his biggest passion, which he enjoyed until the very last moment.

Léon Melchior was Officer in the Leopold Order, had received the Medal of Merit of the city of Maastricht, was honorary citizen of the town of Lanaken, honorary chairman of MVV and founder of Zangersheide and 53 different companies.

With him the family loses its patriarch, the business world an example and the horse world its Maecenas. The loss is great and he will be missed by all, but the memory of him will help us cope with the new situation.

The burial ceremony will take place at Domain Zangersheide in Lanaken on Tuesday 17 November. Reception and the opportunity to offer condolences in writing is from 10.30 to 11.30 hours, after which the ceremony will take place. 

At the request of mister Melchior everyone is welcome."

Our thoughts go out to Melchior's family.