Dr. Michael Hofmann
Trainer
Obituary for Michael
On Saturday, April 12th, 2025, we received a message that made our world stand still: suddenly and unexpectedly, we lost our long-time colleague, co-founder of our cooperative, supervisory board member, companion, and friend, Michael . We are shaken, speechless—and deeply saddened.
Michael was many things: a caring father of two sons, a free spirit holding a doctorate in meteorology, a person with a cool head and a warm heart. His home was Kiel—the sea was his great love, kitesurfing his passion. Just a few days ago, during a remote meeting, he showed us via live camera the beach where he planned to hit the water right after work. His anticipation was contagious, with Michael beaming from ear to ear. This excitement, this sparkle in his eyes—that’s how we last experienced him. These memories remain vividly alive within us.
Michael had been part of oose since 2010. With great passion, he conducted training in Scrum and agility because he deeply identified with Scrum’s essence—the collaboration, values, and the mindset behind it. In 2014, he became a member of our supervisory board and played a crucial role in founding oose as a cooperative. Even after stepping into self-employment six years ago, he remained closely connected to oose. With his clarity, perseverance, and loyalty, he always convinced us that his path was also ours.
As a facilitator, idea generator, critical thinker, and inspirational spirit, he shaped our everyday life at oose. Whether in strategy sessions, workshops, or simply over lunch, his insights moved us, challenged us, and propelled us forward. He was someone who didn’t need the spotlight, yet always had a profound impact.
Michael was the kind of conversation partner one could only wish for: attentive, open, genuinely interested in others, and always respectful. He didn’t shy away from addressing uncomfortable topics—not to hurt, but always to move things forward. With him, one could reflect, laugh, and grow. He had a special sensitivity for people, recognizing when someone was struggling, often finding the right words—or simply the right moment to listen and offer food for thought. But perhaps most captivating were his adventurous stories as a polar researcher in the Arctic and Antarctic.
We are deeply grateful for everything Michael has done for and with oose. He significantly shaped our culture, our growth, and our self-understanding. His loss leaves a profound gap. It will be hard to move forward without experiencing him; difficult not to discuss, laugh, or make plans with him.
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to our dear colleague Andrea, his life partner. Our thoughts are also with his family—especially his two sons, whose well-being and guidance in life was his greatest wish. We sincerely wish them strength in this dark time.
Michael, you are missed. You will be missed. But you will never be forgotten.
In deepest sorrow,
Your colleagues at oose