Special Heerlen residents 2026

Leo Keularts

Leo Keularts contributed significantly to the Groeët Heelesj Woadbook. He assisted as a volunteer, editor, and illustrator. He was also a board member of Veldeke Heerlen. Leo was committed to promoting the Heerlen dialect and culture.

He contributed to many books, including dialect translations of Suske & Wiske and Asterix & Obelix. In Heerlen, many people know him from the carnival duo Paul & Leo, which he formed together with Paul Münstermann. Leo is important to the heritage of Heerlen.

Marco Custers

Marco Custers owns Tabak en Gemak. He is very important to the Heksenberg neighborhood. Marco adapts his store to the needs of local residents. He offers extra service. His store is an important meeting place.

Marco knows the neighborhood and its residents very well. He has been helping out at Buurtsteun Heksenberg for years. His assistance and commitment make him a real asset. He helps residents and entrepreneurs in the neighborhood.

Jacques van Neer

Jacques is 95 years old. He shows that you can remain active at any age. He has a lot of energy and has a positive outlook on life. He is very important to many elderly people in Heerlen.

Since 2022, Jacques has been working as an elderly care assistant for Alderman Marco Peters. He brings people together. He is an example to others. With his warmth and humor, he represents the elderly well. Jacques inspires people with his story. He is a true Special Heerlener.

Wheel Pieters

Wiel Pieters is an enthusiastic volunteer. He has been committed to nature and nature education for many years. He also works to strengthen the community in Hoensbroek. He organizes activities for various neighborhoods.

Wiel is a board member and founder of Hoensbroek Actief. He is good at connecting people. He has extensive knowledge of rules and policies. Residents and professionals find him easy to talk to. He played an important role in the Ridder Hoen Park and IVN Parkstad projects. He also helped with plans for the municipality of Heerlen.

What is a Special Heerlener?

A Special Citizen of Heerlen is an official title awarded by the municipality of Heerlen. You receive this title if you have made a long-standing and positive contribution to the city of Heerlen.
Every year, the municipality considers who deserves this title.
The mayor personally presents the award to each recipient, who then receives:

• A certificate
• Flowers
• The 'Special Heerlener' pin