In Memory of Erich Rohrer, MG Dübendorf

1930–2009

“I had a comrade—
you won’t find a better one.”

Throughout my 55 years of model flying, Erich Rohrer was always a constant companion. My first encounter with Erich took place in the late 1950s. During an A-2 competition (free flight) at the Dübendorf airfield, my “Hansheiri Kahn” (designed by Hansheiri Thomann) landed on a tall pine tree outside the airfield. To me, it was a hopeless case. Then a helpful model aviator from the MG Dübendorf showed up: it was Erich. That was my first encounter with a fellow model aviator who would remain a friend for life. Erich agreed to see if and how this A-2 model could be brought down. A few days later, the long-awaited phone call: I could pick up the model. Erich had climbed a tree next to the pine and used roof battens to fish the model down. In the time that followed, I saw Erich now and then at the free-flight competitions of that era. Each time was a joyful reunion. He was a specialist in GM (Wakefield rubber-powered models).

When I began my professional career at the Dübendorf military airfield in 1970, we suddenly found ourselves face to face again. That’s when we developed a close relationship. This also led to my transfer from my former MG Frauenfeld to the MG Dübendorf. At that time, Erich was still a rubber-powered free-flight modeler. But RC flying had also found its way into his life. As an electrician, his interest in the emerging field of electric flight was easy to understand. Erich went to great lengths to get me interested in electric flight as well. At first, it wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea. He supported me with advice and practical help during those early days of electric flying. The long coffee breaks at work were largely spent discussing the theory of electric flight. All of my electric model airplanes from that time were only possible thanks to Erich’s support. He always had the right solution for every problem. The selection on the market and the performance of the materials back then were quite modest compared to today. But Erich was always there as an advisor and helper. One special thing back then was electric seaplane flying. There were quite a few “splashy” experiences on Lake Greifensee and Lake Pfäffikersee. The highlight was an electric seaplane flight from Hurdens to Bollingen in 1988 with the MG Rapperswil. This was only possible thanks to Erich’s expertise. Before he retired, Erich moved from Dübendorf to Schiers in the Prättigau. There, Erich settled in well in his wife’s hometown. He wasn’t seen around Dübendorf as much after that. But several Dübendorf residents got to enjoy his new paradise: the idyllic mountain hut “Weizali” on the Stelserberg. Close to his Maiensäss was also an ideal slope-soaring site. I was very pleased that Erich also attended the Arosa vintage glider model gatherings as a participant. Everything Erich set his hand to, he did with great enthusiasm. Two “Penguins” flew so well that they disappeared from view. Erich’s wife had passed away two years ago. That was very difficult for him. His health also suffered. Now Erich, our dear friend, has left us forever. Model flying was his life. In model aviation, he made history in many competitions, including those abroad. From 1975 to 1986, he served as president of the MG Dübendorf. He was named an honorary member of both the MG Dübendorf and the region. Dear Erich, thank you so much for everything you did for us as a good friend, and for everything I was able to experience with you. It was a wonderful time. You will always remain in my memory as an unforgettable friend.

Alfred Genther

For many years, Erich Rohrer of MG Dübendorf served as the NOS region’s free flight director and a member of the regional board. He supported the region not only as a great role model for athletes, but also as a forward-thinking and responsible contributor and co-creator. His passions were initially rubber-powered model aircraft and seaplane flying. From the very beginning, he supported and significantly promoted electric flight, including as the first team leader of the national electric flight team at European Championships (today, everyone “promotes” electric flight—but 35 years ago, things were different). After moving to the Grisons region, things quieted down a bit for Erich. But whenever it was at all possible, he would take public transportation to the NOS regional presidents’ conferences—here, too, he was a role model for all of us.

We are grateful that we had the opportunity to work with Erich. He laid the foundation for many developments in model aviation. We fondly remember him.

NOS
Region Model Aviation, Emil Giezendanner, President