Rolf Jeltsch (1945 – 2024)
The EMS and EMS Press are sad to hear of the recent death of Professor Rolf Jeltsch, esteemed mathematician and former President of the EMS (1999-2002), the Swiss Mathematical Society (2002-2003), the GAMM Society for Applied Mathematics and Mechanics (2005-2007) and the ICIAM (2007-2011). The EMS and EMS Press extend their condolences to the family and friends of Professor Jeltsch.
In addition to his involvement in several mathematical societies, Rolf Jeltsch played a central role in the founding of EMS Press. In the late 80s and 90s, tensions between scientific publishers and mathematicians grew due to restrictive practices and high prices imposed by the former. When Rolf Jeltsch was elected President of the EMS, one of his priorities was to establish a publishing house that would enable researchers to manage their own publications. He first announced this vision at the closing ceremony of the 3rd European Congress of Mathematics (ECM) in Barcelona in 2000.
Professor Jeltsch pursued this project with tireless energy. Often affectionately referred to as «Rolf sein Verlag», Rolf’s own publishing house, EMS Press became a reality thanks to his efforts to secure funding, office space and support from ETH Zurich. His commitment to the project was unwavering, even in the face of health challenges; during the early planning stages, due to severe back pain, he often travelled with a folding chair that served as his bed. In April 2002, his perseverance led to the official registration of the EMS Publishing House, now EMS Press, which continues to be a testament to his will, dedication and leadership.
Rolf Jeltsch has had a distinguished academic career. After receiving his diploma and doctorate from ETH Zurich, he held positions at Ruhr University Bochum and RWTH Aachen before returning to ETH in 1989. He was particularly known for his contributions to the fields of analysis and numerical analysis of partial differential equations, especially for compressible flows and magnetohydrodynamics. With an interdisciplinary and modern approach to research, he focused on the connection between fundamental research and practical applications, fostering collaborations with both mathematicians and engineers.
Rolf Jeltsch leaves behind a legacy of innovation and collaboration; he will be remembered not only for his scientific achievements, but also for his generosity, dedication and lasting impact on the mathematical community. The photo on the top of the page depicts Marianne and Rolf Jeltsch (2007) in the Tikhvin Cemetery in St. Petersburg, where Leonhard Euler's grave is located.
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