PIP Christian Bach Iversen
54th International President – 1979/80
16 May 1938 – 26 May 2026 (88 years)
The International Association of Y’s Men’s Clubs is mourning the loss of Past International President Mr Christian Bach Iversen, who died on 26 May 2026. He was 88 years old.
A dedicated Y’s Man and a respected leader, Christian Bach Iversen was a lifelong member of Aars Y’s Men’s Club in Denmark. He was present at the club’s charter on 26 August 1967 and remained a faithful member for almost 60 years. During that time, he served the movement with distinction at club, District, Region and international levels.
PIP Christian’s leadership within Y’s Men International was marked by long and committed service. He served as Regional Director in Denmark in 1974/75, a year remembered as a period of strong growth in the Danish movement, with nine new clubs chartered. His regional motto was “Service, Respect, Care”. He was elected International President Elect in 1978 and went on to serve as the 54th International President in 1979/80, during which he carried the motto “Ora et Labora – Pray and Work”.
Christian’s international outlook was a defining part of his YMI life. Together with his wife Marie, he attended many Conventions across the world, including nearly 20 International Conventions. He also offered his language skills as an interpreter at several conventions, helping to strengthen fellowship and understanding across borders.
Beyond his formal offices, Christian remained an active and influential voice in the movement. At Regional Conventions in Denmark, he was a familiar presence at the podium, contributing thoughtfully to discussions and offering guidance when he felt the movement needed clarity or correction. He was widely regarded as a source of historical knowledge, and many turned to him when they needed the background to a decision, event, or tradition within Y’s Men.
PIP Christian Bach Iversen at the podium, where he was a familiar and respected voice, often offering thoughtful guidance drawn from his many years of service.
Christian was also remembered for his care for others. After Regional Conventions, he was known to call the conference chairperson in the host city the following day to express thanks for the work done. This quiet gesture reflected the kindness and attentiveness that marked his service.
In 2014, Christian and Marie received the Harry M. Ballantyne Award, the highest recognition given internationally by Y’s Men International. It was a fitting acknowledgement of Christian’s decades of faithful leadership and of their shared commitment, fellowship and service to the movement.
His passing is deeply felt by Aars Y’s Men’s Club, Region Denmark and the wider international Y’s Men community. Those who knew him will remember him for his wisdom, commitment, warmth and deep love for the movement he served throughout his life.
Rest in peace, PIP Christian Bach Iversen.
– Adapted from a tribute written on behalf of Region Denmark by Arne Braüner, Past Regional Secretary.