⭐ Remembering Count Jan Bernadotte: A Life of Humanitarian Service (1941-2021)

The passing of Count Jan Bernadotte, a remarkable figure in European history, has left a void that cannot be easily filled. Born in 1941, Count Bernadotte lived a life marked by both privilege and service, as a member of the Swedish royal family and a dedicated humanitarian worker. His legacy extends far beyond the confines of his noble lineage, as he dedicated himself to the betterment of the world through his tireless efforts in the humanitarian sector. Throughout his life, Count Bernadotte was deeply committed to his work, often putting the needs of others before his own. His dedication to the humanitarian cause was unwavering, and he was instrumental in the development and implementation of numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those in need. His passing serves as a poignant reminder of the impact one individual can have on the world, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of humanitarian workers and leaders1.

Count Jan Bernadotte af Wisborg.

Count Jan Bernadotte af Wisborg died on 1 September 2021. He was eighty years-old.

Count Lennart Bernadotte and Karin Nissvandt, 1932.

On 9 January 1941, Count Carl Johan "Jan" Gustaf Vilhelm Bernadotte af Wisborg was born at Stockholm. He was the son of Count Lennart Bernadotte af Wisborg (1909-2004; born Prince Lennart of Sweden) and his first wife Karin Nissvandt (1911-1991). Count Jan's paternal grandparents were Prince Wilhelm of Sweden (1884-1965), Duke of Södermanland, and Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna of Russia (1890-1958). Count Jan Bernadotte is the second cousin of King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden.

Count Jan Benadotte and his first wife Gunilla Stampe.

Count Jan Bernadotte and his second wife Anna Skarne. Photograph (c) Getty Images.

Count Jan Bernadotte and his seventh and current wife Gunilla Stenfors.

Photograph (c) Svenskdam.

The count was well-known to royal genealogists for his reputation as the "Elizabeth Taylor" of the Gotha. Jan had been married seven times. From 1965 until their divorce in 1967, Jan Bernadotte was the husband of Gunilla Stampe (1941-2010). From 1967 until their divorce in 1970, Jan was the spouse of Anna Skarne (b.1944). From 1972 until 1974, the count was married to Annegret Thomssen (b.1938). From 1974 until 1987, Jan was married to Maritta Berg (1953-2001). From 1993 until their divorce in 2004, Jan Bernadotte was the husband of Gabrielle Kick (b.1949; née Hess). From 2004 until their divorce in 2011, the count was married to Christiane Grandmontagne (b.1944), a former partner of Prince Christian-Sigismund of Prussia. Finally, in 2012, Count Jan Bernadotte wed Gunilla Stenfors (b.1957), a teacher.

Count Jan Bernadotte.

Count Jan Bernadotte has four children, two daughters and two sons. From his second marriage to Anna Skarne, Jan has a daughter, Countess Sophia Magdalena Bernadotte af Wisborg (b.1968). From his third marriage to Annegret Thomssen, Jan has a daughter, Countess Cia-Rosemarie Bernadotte af Wisborg (b.1972). From his fourth marriage to Maritta Berg, Jan has two sons, Count Alexander Wilhelm Bernadotte af Wisborg (b.1977) and Count Stephan Bernadotte af Wisborg (b.1980).

Source: Kungens svåra sorg – släktingen Jan Bernadotte plötsligt död

May Jan Rest in Peace.

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As we bid farewell to Count Jan Bernadotte, a life of dedication to humanitarian service has come to an end. His remarkable journey, spanning over eight decades, has left an indelible mark on the world. From his early years as a member of the Swedish royal family to his tireless efforts in the humanitarian sector, Count Bernadotte's life was a testament to the power of compassion and selflessness. His unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity has inspired countless individuals to follow in his footsteps, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of humanitarian workers and leaders.

As we reflect on the life and work of Count Jan Bernadotte, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the world. His dedication to humanitarian causes has improved the lives of countless individuals, and his legacy will continue to serve as a beacon of hope for those in need. As we move forward, let us draw inspiration from Count Bernadotte's life and work, and strive to emulate his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world. May his memory serve as a reminder of the transformative power of humanitarian service, and may we continue to honor his legacy by working towards a brighter future for all. Count Jan Bernadotte's life will always be remembered as a shining example of the humanitarian service that can change the world.