Dutch Parents Voluntarily Worked in Berlin During WWII

Johannes and Gertrud Meeles voluntarily moved to Berlin in 1941 where they found work at AEG Transformatorenfabrik during the German occupation. Johannes, initially aiming to study in England, adapted to the circumstances and secured a position at AEG. Gertrud, a pragmatic woman with German heritage, also found fulfillment working there and later engaged in a relationship with a foreign worker.

After the war, Johannes worked with the Dutch Red Cross to repatriate Dutch citizens, continuing to live in Berlin even after the task was taken over by the Ministry of Defense. The couple married in 1946 and enjoyed a comfortable life in a spacious flat.

Johannes later transitioned into the Consular Service, leading to postings in Düsseldorf, Rotterdam, Vienna, Moscow, Helsinki, and Zurich. The family eventually settled in Tönisvorst, near Venlo, after his retirement, allowing them access to both Dutch and German amenities.