Irma Metzger

Irma Metzger (Gruenebaum) was born in Hofstetten, 18 July 1900, daughter of Isaak and Lina Gruenebaum. She grew up in Aschaffenburg, along with her younger sister, Martha Gruenebaum. Irma and Ludwig decided not to leave Germany with Martha and her husband, Leo Steppacher. Unfortunately, when they realised after Kristallnacht that they needed to leave, no country would receive them, despite the strenuous efforts of their family in England. They were interned at Camp de Gurs in the Pyrenees on 22 October 1940 and stayed there for 21 months. During this time, they were able to stay in touch with family in England thanks to "the angel" Sylvia Willemer of Kussnacht, Switzerland. On 5 August 1942, Irma added a postscript in pencil to what would be her final letter: "Today, Wednesday the 5th I am continuing to write and want to let you know that we are well, that dear Ludwig, Auntie Frieda, the Weinheimer girls and nearly all our acquaintances are leaving. As soon as it is possible, we will let you hear from us. My dearly beloved, stay healthy. With heartfelt love I send you many kisses. With all my love, your Irma. The dear G-d will not forsake us." She was transported to Drancy and then to Auschwitz, where she was murdered.