Tributes have been paid to an “extraordinary” Holocaust survivor who spent decades educating people about the Nazi atrocity.
The Holocaust Memorial Day Trust announced on Sunday that Henry Wuga had died, a month after turning 100.
Mr Wuga escaped Nazi Germany at age 15, before making Glasgow his home and becoming instrumental in educating people about the horrors of the Holocaust.
Henry was an extraordinary human being. While the world is a poorer place for his passing, there is no doubt that his life made it better. Alongside his beloved wife, Ingrid, Henry educated thousands about the horrors of the Holocaust and the lessons from it that we must never… https://t.co/khSm0eIDsn
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) March 17, 2024
Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon led the tributes, posting on X, formerly Twitter: “Henry was an extraordinary human being. While the world is a poorer place for his passing, there is no doubt that his life made it better.
“Alongside his beloved wife, Ingrid, Henry educated thousands about the horrors of the Holocaust and the lessons from it that we must never forget.
“With quiet dignity, he reminded us of the power of love and humanity. He was also full of stories and fun.”
She added: “He will be so enormously missed – but his legacy will endure.”
First Minister Humza Yousaf also praised Mr Wuga’s impact on the country he came to call home.
I’m devastated to hear of Henry’s passing. His loss will be felt by communities right across Scotland & beyond.
He worked over decades to remind us of the horrors of the Holocaust, which must never be forgotten.
My thoughts with Henry’s family, friends & the many who loved him. https://t.co/kb5bnwQ2uf pic.twitter.com/rYXlNQJzcF
— Humza Yousaf (@HumzaYousaf) March 17, 2024
“I’m devastated to hear of Henry’s passing. His loss will be felt by communities right across Scotland & beyond,” he posted.
“He worked over decades to remind us of the horrors of the Holocaust, which must never be forgotten.”
In a statement released on Sunday morning, Holocaust Memorial Day Trust chief executive Olivia Marks-Woldman said the group was “heartbroken”.
“Henry was a gentleman: charming, dapper and above all, a force for good,” she added.
“The work that he, and his late wife Ingrid, did in sharing their testimonies, made an immense impact on thousands of people across Scotland.
“All of us at the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust send our deepest sympathies to his daughters Hilary and Gillian and all his family and loved ones.
“Thank you for everything, Henry. We will miss you.”
Ahead of Mr Wuga’s 100th birthday in February, his local MSP Jackson Carlaw paid a tribute in Holyrood during First Minister’s Questions.
Mr Carlaw posted on X: “How joyful it was just last month for us all to celebrate with Henry the reaching of his centenary.
“Today we mourn his passing & send much love to Hilary, Gillian & the family. In his own quiet way, Henry was a Statesman. May his memory be a blessing.”
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar described Mr Wuga as “warm, charming and compassionate”, adding: “We owe it to his generation to share their stories and always strive for peace.”
