Rüdiger Prinz von Sachsen: A Legacy of Royalty and Family

The passing of Rüdiger Prinz von Sachsen, a descendant of the last king of Saxony, has left a lasting impact on the European royal family. Born on December 23, 1953, at Mülheim an der Ruhr, Rüdiger Karl Ernst Timo Ali Prinz von Sachsen was the first child and only son of Prince Timo of Saxony and his first wife Margrit Lucas, who tragically passed away in 1957. This event led to Rüdiger and his younger sister Iris being raised by their maternal family, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. Rüdiger's lineage is significant, as he was the only male-line great-grandson of King Friedrich August III of Saxony. His paternal grandparents were Prince Ernst Heinrich of Saxony and Princess Sophie of Luxembourg, and his great-grandparents included notable figures such as Grand Duke Guillaume IV of Luxembourg and Infanta Maria Anna of Portugal. Throughout his life, Rüdiger was married twice, first to Astrid Linke and then to Diana Dorndorf, with whom he had three sons. His legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren, a testament to the enduring power of family and heritage1.

Rüdiger von Sachsen with his grandson Moritz at the wedding of Rüdiger's son Daniel, 2011.

Photo (c) Zoonar / Türpe Tuerp / AGE Fotostock.

On 29 March 2022, Rüdiger Prinz von Sachsen died at his home near Moritzburg after suffering a heart attack. He was sixty-eight years-old.

Prince Timo of Saxony and Margrit Lucas on their wedding day, 1952.

Born on 23 December 1953 at Mülheim an der Ruhr, Rüdiger Karl Ernst Timo Ali Prinz von Sachsen was the first child and only son of Prince Timo of Saxony (1923-1982) and his first wife Margrit Lucas (1932-1957), who wed in 1952. Rüdiger was followed by younger sister Iris (b.1955). Rüdiger and Iris were raised by their maternal family following the tragically early death of their mother Margrit.

Left to right: Prince Dedo, King Friedrich August III, Princess Sophie with Prince Timo, and Prince Ernst Heinrich in 1925.

Rüdiger's paternal grandparents were Prince Ernst Heinrich of Saxony (1896-1971) and his first wife Princess Sophie of Luxembourg (1902-1941). His paternal great-grandparents were King Friedrich August III of Saxony and Archduchess Louisa of Austria as well as Grand Duke Guillaume IV of Luxembourg and Infanta Maria Anna of Portugal. Rüdiger was the only male-line great-grandson of King Friedrich August III of Saxony. 

Astrid and Rüdiger with their three sons in 1980.

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In 1974, Rüdiger married Astrid Linke (1949-1989). The couple had three sons: Daniel (b.1975; married Sandra Scherer), Arne (b.1977; married Sarah Schneider), and Nils (b.1978; married Jedida Taborek). In 2004, Rüdiger married Diana Dorndorf (b.1958); the couple later separated.

Rüdiger with his uncle Prince Dedo of Saxony in Dresden, 2008. Photo (c) Imago.

Rüdiger Prinz von Sachsen is survived by his three sons and daughters-in-law and his grandchildren.

May Rüdiger Rest in Peace.

Rüdiger Prinz von Sachsen, the great-grandson of the last king of Saxony, has left behind a lasting legacy that will continue to be cherished by his family and admirers alike. As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, we take a moment to reflect on the significant impact he had on those around him and the world at large. His life was marked by a deep connection to his royal heritage, which he carried with dignity and pride throughout his years. From his early life, shaped by the tragic loss of his mother, to his later years, filled with love and family, Rüdiger's story is a testament to the enduring power of resilience and the importance of preserving one's cultural heritage.

As we move forward, it is crucial that we remember and honor the life and legacy of Rüdiger Prinz von Sachsen. His story serves as a reminder of the significance of preserving our cultural heritage and the importance of family bonds. We can learn much from his life, particularly in the way he carried his royal lineage with humility and dignity. His passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew him, but his memory will continue to inspire and motivate those who come after him. May his story serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the enduring power of family and heritage, as we continue to navigate the complexities of our world.