It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Tibor Kelemen, platinum diploma holder, retired department head and university professor, and former editor-in-chief of the scientific journal Elektrotechnika, who left us in his 99th year on June 22, 2026.
For decades, Tibor was a defining figure in our community. As the Head of the Department of Transport Automation at the Faculty of Transportation Engineering of the Budapest University of Technology, he carried out guiding work from 1966 until his retirement in 1991. His teaching was characterized by professional excellence, dedication, and a sincere attention and empathy towards his students. He published countless articles and university lecture notes, created a school of thought within his department, and left a lasting legacy. His lectures did not merely impart knowledge, but also shaped perspectives; as a highly respected educator, he became a prominent personality in his field.
His professional career was equally exemplary. Following his university studies, he joined the Central Electrical Research Laboratory, and later the Electrical Research Institute. Subsequently, he moved to the Department of Special Electrical Machines at the Technical University, from where his path led to the Department of Transport Automation. Throughout his career, he also played an outstanding role in the life of the journal Elektrotechnika, leading it as editor-in-chief for a record 31 years and elevating it into a true scientific journal. His professional contributions were recognized with the Association’s Standard Prize in 1962. Regarding his personal qualities—his honesty, reliability, goodwill, and helpfulness—his colleagues, friends, and students spoke of him only with the utmost respect.
He loved life, nature, and the beauty within it. He and his wife lived a harmonious, fulfilling life, permeated by peace and tranquility. There is no greater proof of their gratitude and exceptional generosity than the fact that they offered the financial assets they acquired throughout their lives to support the needy, the sick, and the poor.
In him, we have lost not only an excellent scientist and educator, but also an endlessly kind and wonderful human being. His intellectual legacy, humanity, and exemplary life will be preserved with respect, gratitude, and reverence by our department’s community.