In Memoriam: Laura van Hoof
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our esteemed colleague Laura van Hoof on Wednesday 1 October, after an illness of more than a year. An alumnus of Leiden University, she worked in the Student Affairs department of the Faculty of Humanities, as the education coordinator for the Philosophy study programmes.
Laura both studied and worked at Leiden University her whole life. She began her studies in Archaeology in 1994 and then transferred to English Language and Literature in 1997. After obtaining her master’s in 2002, she immediately started work at Leiden University Graduate School of Teaching (ICLON). She also worked as a freelance translator, and for the Humanities Student Information Desk. In 2009 she moved back to the Faculty of Archaeology, where she worked in the education administration office for more than ten years. Laura returned to the Faculty of Humanities in 2023. We knew her as a dedicated and dynamic staff member, always ready to help her colleagues.
Laura was aged 49 years. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and loved ones.
Her direct colleagues and former colleagues have been informed about the funeral. On Thursday morning, 9 October, from 10.30 to 11.30 in the PJ Veth Building, there will be an opportunity to remember Laura together; a memorial table has been arranged in the area opposite 2.01, where you may sign the condolence book, if you wish.
A word from colleagues in the Faculty of Archaeology
'With great sadness, we were informed that our former colleague Laura has died. Laura was a thoughtful, valued and humorous colleague, who worked in the education administration office of the Faculty of Archaeology for many years. Her broad range of interests – from archaeology to pop culture – made her an inspiring conversation partner. She enjoyed going to the movies with colleagues, always with a smile and an acute observation.
Two years ago, Laura left our department for an exciting new challenge in the Faculty of Humanities. We were deeply saddened to hear the news that she suddenly became ill. It hurts us to learn that she is no longer here.
We remember Laura with great affection, and wish her family and friends much strength at this difficult time.'
And from her colleague and friend Patsy
'Before we drift away… is what comes to my mind first, now that I’m writing this. Our last music together, but with which we made a pact to always be there for each other. I’m going to miss you so much, dear Laura; our “work” conversations, your smile, your perseverance, your humour and our clumsiness. Together as the only ones dressed up at Christmas dinner, together struggling through all the busy-ness and laughing at your own “wrong” decisions, our love of trees and people, your light.
Shining; you did it so well, and I will try to take it with me, so that your light will continue to shine in this world. I admire the courage with which you fought this fight and, in my experience, never lost. You brought people together through your perseverance and your love for others, and that is unforgettable. Rest now, dear Laura, and know that your strength and love will always still shine through a little here: I’m gonna hang on to this forever (Nothing but Thieves).'
Patsy Casse