In his youth he spent several years in Tanganyika with his family until they returned to Germany and lived in Pommern. He was only fourteen at the outbreak of World War II and served his military service in Germany, Denmark and Italy without taking part in any action. After the war he served in the German diplomatic service until, on 28 June 1965, his engagement to the Crown Princess of The Netherlands was announced. After an initial reaction against his German nationality, he became accepted and appreciated. In this, his almost accentless Dutch may have helped. On 10 March 1966 the marriage took place in Amsterdam. Afterwards, the serious and conscientious approach with which he acquainted himself with life in The Netherlands made him even more appreciated. Many years later when suffering from depression he was twice hospitalized. 
 
 

Source: Leo van de Pas