With deep sorrow and respect, SaabPlanet.com joins Saab Club Belgium in mourning the loss of Hans Wagemans, whose recent departure has profoundly touched us all. Hans was more than a member of our community; he was its heart, its inspiration, and one of its brightest leaders. Today, we pay tribute to a man whose passion for Saab cars transcended boundaries, whose life was an example of true dedication and love for the brand we all cherish so deeply.
Hans’s connection with Saab was not just a passion; it was a life story. As the son of a salesman in a Mercedes-Saab garage, Hans absorbed the Saab ethos from his earliest days. His early foray into the automotive world, including a rally career in a Porsche 356 and Mini Cooper S, was merely a prelude to what would become a lifelong devotion to Saab. Transitioning to Saab, Hans drove various 96 models until the early ’70s, cementing his love and commitment to the brand.
However, Hans’s contribution to the Saab community far exceeds his passion for driving. As one of the founders of the Saab 96 club, the precursor to today’s Saab Club Belgium, Hans was a pivotal figure in shaping and growing our community. For over two decades, he tirelessly organized Saab stands at various fairs, where his enthusiasm and knowledge attracted many new members. Under his leadership, the club acquired the now legendary Saab van for transporting and storing fair materials, yet another testament to his dedication and commitment.
Hans was not just a technical advisor within the club; he was a mentor, friend, and inspiration to us all. His ability to restore any Saab 96 or 900 classic and return it to the road, safely and happily, was nothing short of magical. His willingness to always help, to never hesitate to roll up his sleeves and get the job done, left a lasting impression on all of us.
We bid farewell to Hans with heavy hearts but also with deep gratitude for all he has done for the Saab community. His legacy will live on through every Saab story we share, through every model we restore, and through every drive we take with love for the brand that shaped his life.
We invite everyone who knew Hans, as well as those who felt his impact, to join in paying tribute to this remarkable man. His funeral will be held on Saturday, March 9th at 11:00 am, at the St. John the Evangelist Church in Beveren. While Hans wished for no flowers or wreaths, we encourage you to share stories, memories, and gratitude in his honor.
With our deepest condolences, we wish strength to Hans’s family and numerous friends. Hans Wagemans may no longer be with us, but his spirit, his smiling presence, and his boundless love for Saab will forever be a beacon for our community.
