1903-2000

 We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.   
Duane Hulse

We at Chessmill were saddened to learn of the death of George Koltanowski at age 96.

“Kolty,” as he was affectionately known to thousands of chess fans the world over, died of congestive heart failure on Feb 5, 2000.

Born on September 7 1903 in Antwerp, Belgium, Koltanowski was caught in Central America when World War II broke out. He came to the US, and began what seemed like and endless series of simuls. He told wonderful stories about the chess masters he knew; he was Caissa’s Good Will Ambassador to the world, on loan to the US.

Kolty was always willing to teach kids, and came to teach the Milwaukee playground chess classes on numerous occasions. Ever the gentleman, he seemed so out of place in this age where players throw insults and temper tantrums so freely it sometimes makes us wonder just what it’s all for. Why do we bother?

So we raise a glass in memory of the man who most embodied the real reason we do what we do. To George Koltanowski, who has reached his final square and has now been promoted. Who gave us all so much, and who did what he did for one reason and one reason alone:

For love of the game.