News from the Members

I regret to inform you of some very sad news,

Philippe de la Portbarre, our Vice-President, passed away on Friday, September 07, after suffering from a cruel illness since the beginning of the year. Philippe and his wife Geneviève (who died in 2009, and who was President of our Cercle Wagner for 12 years), had been members of the Cercle Richard Wagner Marseille since 1987; that is, since its very beginning.

Philippe, a tour operator by profession, organised throughout this period, operatic, Wagnerian and other trips, which were joined by many members of other French Wagner Societies. Everyone who took part was able to appreciate his kindness and professionalism.

To his children Gaëlle and Thibaut, his grandchildren and his partner Simone, we offer our deepest condolences.

The date of the funeral has not yet been set.

With profound sadness,


André DEMARCK
Circle RICHARD WAGNER MARSEILLE-PROVENCE