We mourn the loss of our dear colleague Raphael Thörmer and are deeply saddened by his passing. After completing his studies in Cultural Anthropology/European Ethnology, Art History, and Political Science at JGU Mainz, Raphael Thörmer worked at the LVR Open-Air Museum Kommern; from 2022, he served there as a research associate for house and building research.

Despite his many professional commitments, Raphael Thörmer additionally offered seminars in Mainz as an adjunct lecturer, with great joy and drive. With extensive expertise, humor, and unfailing enthusiasm, he was able to passionately inspire junior researchers for museum work – mostly on-site in Kommern. Together with master’s students, Raphael Thörmer researched the Emergency Church Program in Mainz and the surrounding area as part of his own teaching and research project.

The doctoral colloquia, which were able to take place at the Kommern Open-Air Museum from 2015 to 2019 thanks to Raphael Thörmer’s active support, remain unforgettable. For his tireless dedication, helpfulness, and warm demeanor, he was highly valued by colleagues and students. Our deepest sympathy now goes out to his family and colleagues in Kommern.

All who knew Raphael will remember him fondly.

Obituary on the website of the LVR Open-Air Museum Kommern: https://kommern.lvr.de/de/ueber_das_museum/kontakt_1/nachruf_raphael_thoermer.html