Universiteit Leiden

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In memoriam Paul Valk

It was with great sadness that on 17 May 2021 we learned of the death of our dear colleague Paul Valk. Paul died from the consequences of COVID-19, having been diagnosed with coronavirus over three weeks ago. Soon after this he was admitted to intensive care, where he was kept in an induced coma on a ventilator for three weeks. We offer our deepest sympathy to his wife Anneke and will miss him tremendously.

Paul had worked at the University since July 2000: initially with the predecessor of the current ISSC, later with the University Services Department (UFB) and since May 2019 with the Faculty of Science. During this time, Paul was the most recognisable face of Facility Services within the Snellius Building.

We knew Paul as a kind and loyal colleague. He was very popular and highly esteemed, not least for his good spirits and characteristic Hague sense of humour. Always present and visible at his workplace, he was there to help you at all times. 

Paul was going to retire in July this year. Anneke and Paul were proud of their new home in Limburg, a beautiful place to enjoy their retirement together. Paul and Anneke were very much looking forward to this time and Paul spoke about it with pride. There are no words to express how much we wished Anneke and Paul well in their retirement. 

With Paul’s death, we have lost a highly valued and cherished colleague. We wish Paul’s wife Anneke, his family, friends and colleagues much strength in bearing their great loss.

On behalf of the Faculty Board and the colleagues of the Facility Services department and the Snellius building

A book of condolence has been placed in the Reception of the Snellius Building in Leiden. From 19 May, all are welcome to add their last farewell or write about their memories of Paul here.

If you are unable to come to the Snellius Building but would like to convey your thoughts, please send an email to servicedesk@science.leidenuniv.nl. We will then ensure that your message is added to the book of condolence.

Please address written correspondence, including for Paul’s family, to the Facility Services department of the Faculty of Science: Dienst Facilitaire Zaken, Faculteit W&N, Gorlaeus Gebouw, Einsteinweg 55, 2333 CC Leiden. 

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