Well, I first came across references to them on Lufthansa's in flight magazines, some time ago.
Moreover, colleagues recommended them highly, and certainly, the Germans seem to regard them as 'German' - there was no mention in any German source I have read of any US connection; I believe that they were founded in Germany, sometime in the nineteenth century.
For me, the build quality, - I travel a lot - and the ten year guarantee are major attractions.
But, I appreciate the note of sorrow in your tone and post.