Elisabeth de Boer, a renowned specialist in Japanese linguistics, has passed away at the age of 57. Known for her work on the historical phonology of Japanese pitch accents, she was highly respected in her field. Her untimely death has left the academic community saddened by the loss of her expertise..
Very sad to hear of the untimely passing of Elisabeth de Boer (1966-2023) in late August today. Elisabeth was a leading specialist in Japanese, comparative Japonic and Tungusic historical linguistics, well-known for her work on the historical phonology of Japanese pitch accents,
— Wolfgang Behr (@behrwolf) September 24, 2023
Obituary – Death News : It is with deep sadness that we report the untimely passing of Elisabeth de Boer (1966-2023) in late August. Elisabeth was a highly esteemed specialist in the field of Japanese, comparative Japonic, and Tungusic historical linguistics. She was renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to the study of the historical phonology of Japanese pitch accents.
Elisabeth dedicated her life to unraveling the complexities of Japanese and other related languages, leaving an indelible mark on the field of linguistics. Her extensive research and expertise not only expanded our understanding of these languages but also paved the way for further advancements in the field. Her work has been widely recognized and celebrated by colleagues and scholars around the world.
Born in 1966, Elisabeth displayed an early passion for languages and linguistics. She pursued her academic journey at prestigious institutions, earning degrees in linguistics and Japanese studies. Throughout her career, Elisabeth held various teaching and research positions, sharing her knowledge and inspiring countless students.
Elisabeth’s legacy extends far beyond her academic achievements. She was known for her warm and generous spirit, always willing to support and guide her colleagues and students. Her dedication to mentoring young linguists was unparalleled, and she played a significant role in shaping the careers of many promising researchers.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Elisabeth was an avid traveler, exploring different cultures and immersing herself in the rich linguistic tapestries of the world. Her experiences abroad greatly influenced her research and provided valuable insights into the interconnectedness of languages and cultures.
Elisabeth’s untimely departure leaves a profound void in the field of linguistics and among those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her passion, intellect, and kindness will be sorely missed by her colleagues, students, friends, and family.
At the time of this reporting, the cause of Elisabeth’s passing remains undisclosed. We respect the privacy of her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Elisabeth de Boer’s contributions to the field of linguistics will continue to inspire future generations of researchers. Her groundbreaking work and unwavering dedication have left an enduring legacy, firmly establishing her as a leading figure in the study of Japanese, comparative Japonic, and Tungusic historical linguistics. May her memory live on as a source of inspiration and enlightenment for all those who follow in her footsteps.
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@behrwolf wrote
Very sad to hear of the untimely passing of Elisabeth de Boer (1966-2023) in late August today. Elisabeth was a leading specialist in Japanese, comparative Japonic and Tungusic historical linguistics, well-known for her work on the historical phonology of Japanese pitch accents,