The German aristocracy and the town of Leonberg are in mourning following the sudden death of Prince Harald von Hohenzollern, who passed away at the age of 63. The prince, a member of the historic House of Hohenzollern, died from a sudden cardiac arrest while on a business trip in Namibia, where he was involved in the diamond industry. His death comes just weeks before the expected birth of his first child with Princess Josefa von Hohenzollern, whom he married nine months ago.

Princess Josefa, who is currently running for re-election as mayor of Leonberg, shared the tragic news through a heartfelt post on social media. Accompanied by a collage of their memories together, she expressed her deep sorrow and the need to step back from her campaign to grieve and prepare for the arrival of their child. Despite her loss, Josefa affirmed her commitment to continue her candidacy, stating it would have been her late husband's wish.

The couple's love story began in 2022 at a trade fair in Stuttgart, where Harald, a businessman with ties to the diamond trade in Southern Africa, met Josefa, a prominent politician from Bavaria. Their relationship quickly blossomed, leading to their marriage in September 2024 in Josefa's hometown of Kollnburg. Known for their low-profile lifestyle away from the public eye, the couple was eagerly anticipating the birth of their child, a joy that has now been overshadowed by Harald's untimely death.

The House of Hohenzollern, with roots dating back to 1061, is one of Germany's most notable royal dynasties. Harald's passing not only marks a personal tragedy for his family but also a moment of reflection for those who knew him and the communities he touched through his work and personal life. As the von Hohenzollern family and the people of Leonberg come to terms with this loss, the focus now turns to supporting Princess Josefa and the upcoming birth of their child, a beacon of hope in these sorrowful times.