Volker Palm Memorial Fund

About two weeks ago, I received a message from Tania, Volker’s daughter. She told me that the family had decided to invite people to give to Widow’s Hope in lieu of flowers at Volker's memorial service.

I was speechless.

In a moment of such deep grief, when most of us can barely think straight, Volker’s family chose to honour his life in one of the most radical and beautiful ways I have ever witnessed. I didn’t know how to respond at first. But as I sat with it, I realised—what better way could there be to honour a husband, father, and brother whose entire life was a testimony of service, humility, and compassion?

I knew Volker for almost three years through the International Baptist Church in Stuttgart. And what stays with me is his kind face, his gentle spirit, and the quiet humility with which he served. Whether he was working in the kitchen with his apron on or sweeping the fellowship hall after service, he did everything without drawing attention to himself.

He was an engineer, highly educated, a man who had accomplished much—and yet he chose to serve people and his God with such humility. To me, that is one of the greatest marks of how a Christian ought to live.

So when I received Tania’s note, I was deeply moved. It is humbling beyond words that Volker’s family would think of supporting Widow’s Hope in his memory—to ensure that his legacy continues to bless the lives of widows, orphans, and the vulnerable. Volker’s kindness will not be forgotten.

To honour this generosity, the board of Widow’s Hope has decided to establish the Volker Palm Memorial Fund. All the donations received in his honour will be placed into a dedicated deposit account and will serve as seed funding for the future Widow’s Hope Center in India; a place where widows and orphans will receive training, care, and a chance to rebuild their lives.

At the moment, Widow’s Hope is still in the process of being officially registered as an e.V., so we have temporarily designated one personal account to receive donations until the registration is complete.

For now, donations can be made to:

Vikram Bhandari
IBAN: DE14500105175400517720
BIC: INGDDEFFXXX

Our website: www.widowshope.com

Volker’s life reminds us that our time here is precious. None of us knows how many days we have—but we do know how we choose to live the days we’re given.

Let us learn from his example:
To serve while we can.
To give while we can.
To love while we can.
And to do good whenever we can.

On behalf of everyone at Widow’s Hope, I want to thank each one of you who has given in Volker’s memory.

Thank you.
Vikram Bhandari
Founder, Widow’s Hope