Our colleague Erwin Dietrich has passed away suddenly
June 14, 2026: German Coordination Group of the International Automotive Workers' Coordination: We are deeply saddened by the sudden death of our friend, colleague, and longtime activist in the International Automotive Workers' Coordination, Erwin Dietrich. He died suddenly after suffering a fainting spell while on a motorcycle tour. We mourn with his wife and family.
Erwin was an activist from the very beginning. An active and militant union organizer throughout his life—most recently for many years at the Mercedes plant in Sindelfingen—he helped build and shape the IAC movement. He attended all IAC Counselsl meetings and helped organize the IAC conferences. As the long-time treasurer of the International Coordination Group, he selflessly made a very valuable contribution as part of the finance team at the Third International Automotive Workers' Conference in November 2025 in Pune, India.
A colleague from the IAC Coordination writes, “At the International Automotive Workers' Conference, he handled the various currencies and banking systems with great effort and total dedication. As a result, there were times when he didn’t even get to experience much of the conference itself.”
Many friends have fond memories of vacations, mountain hikes, and motorcycle trips spent with Erwin.
We will miss him dearly and will always cherish his memory in our hearts. Our deepest condolences and sympathy go out to his wife and children.
International Coordination Group of the International Automotive Workers' Coordination
June 14, 2026
Dear family members,
It is with great sadness that we learned of Erwin’s passing.
On behalf of the International Automotive Workers' Conference, we extend our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to you.
With Erwin’s passing, we lose a person who was a dedicated and valued member of our movement for many years. As the first treasurer of the International Automotive Workers' Conference, he carried out important foundational work through his dedication, persuasiveness, and solidarity. We will remember him with gratitude for his commitment to the interests of workers and his dedication to the goals of our movement.
Che Guevara said: “Solidarity is the tenderness of the peoples.” Proletarian internationalism was a matter close to Erwin’s heart. He championed it with great consistency and conviction.
We have lost not only a comrade-in-arms, but also a valued friend and companion. His legacy will live on in our shared work and inspire us to continue the struggle for solidarity and international cooperation.
In these difficult hours, our thoughts are with you. We wish you strength, comfort, and hope for the days ahead.
In silent remembrance and sincere solidarity
International Automotive Workers' Conference
On behalf of the International Coordination Group (ICOG) and all our comrades
Rainer Weinmann
Erwin Dietrich
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