The story of the Grimoldi family from Buenos Aires, which connects the two families, Klausner and Graetz.
While working on the film, I was searching for evidence that Julius Klausner and Robert Graetz knew each other, as Roberto and Julius were part of the same cultural circles in Berlin before the outbreak of the war. The solution came from a surprising angle: the story of the Grimoldi family from Buenos Aires. The Grimoldi family played a significant role in assisting the Leisers in settling in Buenos Aires while escaping the Holocaust. Only after the film was completed did Roberto Graetz realize that for the past several years, the Graetz family business has had a commercial relationship with the Grimoldis. The Grimoldi family serves as the connecting link between the two families.
The historical story:
Liselotte Leiser de Nesviginsky, known as Lilo, shares her remarkable life story as a Jewish Holocaust survivor born in Germany in 1919. She and her family, owners of a shoe business in Berlin, faced persecution during Hitler's rise. Grimoldi, an Argentine businessman, safeguarded their assets, helped them enter Argentina, and returned what was entrusted to him after the war. Lilo recounts the Aryanization of their chain, the Night of Broken Glass in 1938, and their escape to the Netherlands. Grimoldi's crucial role in their lives during and after the war is highlighted, emphasizing trust and enduring human values. Lilo, now ninety-four, expresses gratitude for life and recounts her post-war experiences, including her family's lost connection with Grimoldi and a heartwarming reunion with his son, Alberto Luis, who remains a steadfast friend. She reflects on the impact of Grimoldi's kindness and her enduring appreciation for life.
A small newspaper ad.
After the film’s completion, an advertisement in a small newspaper came to my attention that shed further light on another aspect of my grandfather Julius’ life.
In memoriam:
A few weeks ago, I read in your newspaper, that Julius Klausner departed from this world.
I have to express my astonishment that no one has been found, who had a few words for the memory of this great benefactor.
I appreciate the name Julius Klausner and Fasanenstrasse 83 very much.
No Jewish organization of any kind, neither an individual, has contacted Julius Klausner in vain.
He never wanted to be mentioned, he never asked for thanks of any kind.
The joy on the faces of these needy people was enough thanks and recognition for him. I know these lines are not what he would enjoy reading, but we have the duty to remember our benefactors.
Rabbi Eric Cohn