Léo Bergoffen facts for kids

Léo Bergoffen (born October 30, 1922 – died July 5, 2020) was a brave man who lived through very tough times. He was a German Jewish person who moved to France in 1938. During World War II, he was sent to a terrible place called Auschwitz. After the war, he married Odette Blanchet, who was a French Resistance fighter. She was later honored for helping others.

Léo Bergoffen's Early Life

Léo Bergoffen was born in Berlin, Germany, on October 30, 1922. His parents were Jakob and Felli. He also had an older brother named Max, who was born in 1921.

In 1938, Léo's family left Germany. They first went to Prague and then settled in Angers, France. Léo started working as a translator for the Chamber of Commerce. However, he lost his job because he was Jewish.

Surviving World War II

In June 1942, Léo went to the "free zone" in France. But in August, he was arrested by the French police. He was then sent to the Drancy internment camp. From there, on September 2, 1942, he was forced onto a train to Auschwitz.

Auschwitz was a very dangerous camp where many people were killed. Léo's parents were both murdered there. However, Léo managed to survive this terrible time.

Life After the War

After the war ended, Léo started a new life. On February 26, 1946, he married Odette Blanchet. Odette had been a brave fighter in the French Resistance. The Resistance was a group of people who secretly fought against the German occupation during the war.

In 1962, Léo and Odette settled in Avrillé, France. They had one son named Jacques. In 1994, Odette was given a special honor. She was named a "Righteous Among the Nations." This award is given to non-Jewish people who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.

Léo Bergoffen was also recognized for his courage and life. In 2008, he was made a Knight of the Legion of Honour. This is one of France's highest awards.

Léo Bergoffen passed away in Angers, France, on July 5, 2020. He was 97 years old.