A few days ago, Mary of Denmark left her husband, King Frederik, deeply distressed with the emotional farewell words she dedicated to one of the most important people to him.
It was last April 12 when Michael Halbye, a senior executive at Lego and a close friend of the monarchs, passed away after suffering a serious accident in Switzerland. The businessman, who was 64 years old, couldn't survive a fall while skiing in Verbier, in the canton of Valais.
Despite efforts to save his life, the great friend of King Frederik and Queen Mary died shortly after being airlifted to a nearby hospital. Authorities confirmed that he suffered internal bleeding after losing his balance and sliding violently down the slope.
The businessman was considered an expert skier, so his accident caused great shock among those who knew him, especially within the Danish royal family.
For many years, Michael Halbye kept a close friendship with King Frederik, becoming a key figure in his personal and professional life. He also collaborated with Queen Mary of Denmark, actively participating in her foundation.
Queen Mary of Denmark dedicates emotional and sad words to King Frederik's great friend
The businessman's bond with King Frederik began when he was still a prince, during a period marked by personal difficulties. Halbye was appointed as his mentor, guiding him through the complex Danish business world and supporting him at key moments.
From then on, their relationship went beyond the strictly professional and became a very close friendship, forged during hunting trips and important celebrations, including the royal wedding.
Michael Halbye and his partner, dentist Birgitte Bomholt, were part of the innermost circle of the Danish royal family. Their presence was so common at private social events organized by King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark.
There's no doubt that the tragic news of his death truly affected the monarchs. So much so that the queen wanted to pay him a public tribute through a statement published on her foundation's website.
In it, she stated that the businessman had been a member of the board since its creation in 2007, "playing an essential role." For this, both she and the rest of her team would be "eternally grateful":
"I've received the news of Michael Halbye's sudden passing with great sadness. He was a person who possessed an uncommon positive energy, broad knowledge, and a strong commitment to making a difference for those who are outside the community."
However, Queen Mary of Denmark wanted to make it very clear that, aside from his charitable projects, "he was also my friend." "Many will miss him. My thoughts are with his family and close friends," concluded the wife of King Frederik.