Gabi Goslar: The Lifelong Friend Who Carried Anne Frank’s Memory

Gabi Goslar was much more than just a childhood friend; she was a living link to the life of Anne Frank. Known to many as “Hanneli,” she shared the joys of a normal childhood in Amsterdam before the horrors of the Holocaust changed their lives forever. Their bond was forged in classrooms and playdates, creating a deep connection that even the walls of concentration camps could not fully destroy.

Throughout her long life, Gabi took on the sacred duty of keeping Anne’s spirit alive. As one of the last people to see Anne in the Bergen-Belsen camp, her eyewitness testimony provided a heartbreaking and human perspective on the famous diarist’s final days. Gabi spent decades traveling the world to share their story, ensuring that the lessons of history and the power of friendship would be remembered by future generations.

A Friendship Frozen in Time

Gabi Goslar and Anne Frank shared a bond that survived the darkest chapters of human history. Their childhood was filled with laughter and dreams before the shadows of war changed everything.

This friendship became a symbol of hope and tragedy for millions of people worldwide. Gabi spent her later years ensuring that the world never forgot the girl behind the famous diary.

The story of these two friends reminds us of the power of human connection. It shows how a simple childhood bond can turn into a lifelong mission of remembrance.

Early Life and a Bond Forged in Amsterdam

Childhood in Germany: A Foundation of Friendship

Gabi and Anne were both born in Germany during a time of rising political tension. Their families were neighbors and shared similar values and cultural backgrounds.

The two girls met at a very young age and instantly became inseparable playmates. Even as toddlers, they seemed to understand each other in a way few others did.

A New Life in the Netherlands: Sisters in Exile

As the Nazi party rose to power, both families fled to Amsterdam for safety. They lived in the same neighborhood and attended the same Montessori school together.

Gabi and Anne were often seen as “sisters” because they spent every afternoon together. They shared secrets, played with marbles, and dreamt of a bright, peaceful future.

The War Years: Separation and a Fleeting Reunion

The Occupation and a Growing Divide

In 1942, the Frank family suddenly disappeared, leaving behind a rumor that they had fled to Switzerland. Gabi was heartbroken, believing her best friend was safe while her own family struggled.

The Nazi occupation grew harsher, and Gabi’s family was eventually arrested and sent to camps. The two friends were separated by walls of fear and physical distance for years.

The Glimpse Through the Barbed Wire: Bergen-Belsen

In February 1945, Gabi discovered that Anne was in the neighboring section of the Bergen-Belsen camp. They spoke through a hay-filled barbed wire fence, crying as they shared their suffering.

Gabi managed to throw a small bundle of food and socks over the fence to Anne. It was a final act of love before Anne succumbed to typhus shortly before liberation.

Life After Liberation: Bearing the Unbearable

The Devastating Truth and a New Beginning

Gabi survived the Holocaust, but she lost almost her entire family during the war. After being liberated, she learned the tragic news that Anne and her sister Margot had died.

She eventually moved to Jerusalem to start a new life and became a nurse. Despite her trauma, she dedicated herself to helping others and building a large, loving family.

Becoming a Witness: The Voice for Those Who Were Silenced

Gabi realized that she was one of the last people to see Anne Frank alive. She felt a deep responsibility to tell the truth about what happened in the camps.

She began speaking to students and journalists about her experiences and her friend’s spirit. Her testimony added a deeply personal layer to the historical record of the Holocaust.

The Legacy of Gabi Goslar: Memory Keeper

Author and Speaker: Sharing Her Story

Gabi collaborated on books and documentaries to reach a global audience with her message. She wanted people to see Anne not just as a symbol, but as a real girl.

Her words helped humanize the statistics of the Holocaust for younger generations. She remained an active voice for peace and tolerance until her passing in 2022.

A Life of Meaning and Remembrance

Gabi’s life was defined by her resilience and her loyalty to her childhood friend. She proved that even in the face of evil, friendship and memory can prevail.

Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and the millions who read her story. Gabi Goslar ensured that the flame of Anne Frank’s memory would never be extinguished.

Comparison of the Two Friends’ Journeys

Feature	Anne Frank	Gabi Goslar
Birthplace	Frankfurt, Germany	Berlin, Germany
Fate during War	Perished in Bergen-Belsen (1945)	Survived Bergen-Belsen
Primary Legacy	The Diary of a Young Girl	Historical Witness and Speaker
Post-War Home	N/A	Jerusalem, Israel
Role in History	Global symbol of the Holocaust	The “best friend” who kept the story alive

FAQs

Who was Gabi Goslar to Anne Frank?

Gabi was Anne’s best friend from childhood who grew up with her in Amsterdam.

Did Gabi Goslar survive the Holocaust?

Yes, Gabi survived Bergen-Belsen and later moved to Israel to become a nurse.

When did Gabi and Anne last see each other?

They spoke through a fence at Bergen-Belsen shortly before Anne passed away in 1945.

What was Gabi’s nickname in Anne’s diary?

Anne referred to her best friend as “Lies Goosens” in the edited version of her diary.

How did Gabi Goslar die?

Gabi passed away peacefully at the age of 93 in Jerusalem in October 2022.

Conclusion

The story of Gabi Goslar is a testament to the enduring power of friendship. By surviving and speaking out, she gave a voice to her friend who was silenced too soon. Her life reminds us that while hate is destructive, the act of remembering is a powerful form of resistance.