Wolfgang Kühlwein
(1940-2024)

(Nachruf des English Departments der Universität Trier):

Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Kühlwein

*20. April 1940   ✝︎23. September 2024

The English Department of Trier University mourns the loss of Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Kühlwein, who passed away unexpectedly on 23 September 2024 at the age of 84.

Professor Kühlwein, born in 1940, was one of the first professors at the newly founded Trier University. From his appointment in 1970 until his retirement in 2005, he was Professor of English Philology (Linguistics) and during this time he not only played a key role in shaping the subject but also in the development of today’s university – perhaps most prominently as Vice President of the then University of Trier-Kaiserslautern (1970-1972). His academic oeuvre shows both the breadth of his research interests in English linguistics, from Old English language and culture to applied linguistics, as well as his great commitment to international and transdisciplinary cooperation in academic culture. As a recognition of his varied activities, he received many awards, including the Austrian Cross of Honour for Science and Art, First Class in 1981, the Medal of Honour of the University of Klagenfurt and the Order of Merit of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (Ordre de Mérite du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg) in 1992.

Even in retirement, Professor Kühlwein remained very closely connected to his subject and the university. We will remember him fondly as a committed and greatly valued colleague, teacher and researcher.