Deeply moved, we share the news that our teacher Lama Ole, has left his body. “In a completely natural and peaceful way – marked as always, by immense love and strength”, he passed away surrounded by his family on 18 May 2026, at the Europe Center (The International Diamondway Buddhist Center, Germany) where many of his students and friends from around the world had gathered to meditate together over the past few weeks.

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His tireless activity for Buddhism in the West and the Karma Kagyu lineage fills us with great gratitude. Lama Ole dedicated his life entirely to the mission of the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, and since 1972, he founded over 650 Diamond Way Buddhist centers worldwide, visited them regularly, and took care of his countless students with boundless devotion.

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For us, as his students and friends, Lama Ole remains in our hearts as a powerful, great teacher who shared everything with us.

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Following Lama Ole’s example, we will continue his work in unity.

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Immenstadt, Europe Center, 18 May 2026

diamondway-buddhism.org, on behalf of the worldwide Sangha of Diamond Way Buddhism of the Karma Kagyu lineage

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