With deep sorrow,

        the Executive Council of the International Organization of Folk Art mourns the death of  the Secretary-General of the Organization, MARCEL J. OELBRANDT , who passed away of heart attack at 9 pm, Sunday -25 -         June -2017.

         The deceased was one of the most influtial members of the organization and one of the most active persons in the field of folklore. He actively worked on the organization's change plan that won the support of the General Assembly last year, during which he was elected Secretary General of the IOV.

         During his tenure Marcel Oelbrandt has endeavored to make the Organization more productive and of a greater role.

         Mr. Ali Khalifa, President of the Organization and the Executive Board members & DB express their deep regret for the grave loss of an irreplaceable friend, who was a great thinker and manager. We are all express our deepest condolences to Ann, the whole Oelbrandt's family and to  IOV members around the world.

         The President, the Vice-Presidents and members of the Executive Council will attend the funeral ceremony, which will take place at 11:00 am CET, 1st of July 2017  at Lokeren Church , Belgium.

         The EC & BD will hold an emergency meeting to deal the situation and elect a Secretary-General, in accordance with the organization's by laws.