In Memoriam

Jan M. Romijn
12-10-1931 -- 1-8-2020

We have lost a dear friend and colleague. Jan M. Romijn, Vice President Turing Machines Inc., passed away on August 1, 2020 in Geldrop. He was 88 years of age. Jan was born and raised in The Hague. After completing his military service, he joined the staff of Philips Electronics in Eindhoven, where he started his career in the Acoustics Department. He was, among others, involved in early experiments with electronic reverberation systems to enhance the listening experience of large auditoriums. 

Later he became manager of the Building & Engineering division, where he managed the acoustical team. His team was specialized in designing and engineering sound insulation and acoustics in complex constructions such as theatre, cinema, audio-laboratory, and other rooms that have special acoustical requirements. Romijn's team developed new methods for noise control to bridge the complex gap between architecture and acoustics. By merging both specific competences in the early phase of construction, significant improvements in room acoustics and noise control were accomplished. After his appointment to General Manager, in 1982, he became involved in the organization of large international integrated projects such as the World Exhibitions, Olympic Games, and so on. He contributed, among others, to the Public Address system of the Olympic Games in Seoul, 1988, and the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Concert Hall in Taipei. Up until today the results of his work are still visible and audible in numerous buildings around the globe.

He joined the start-up company Turing Machines Inc. in 1999 as vice president, where he was able to commercialize its intellectual property.  

He was an AES member for almost five decades, and served the AES Netherlands Section for eight years. He was named an AES Fellow in 2005 for contributions to building acoustics and service to the AES Netherlands Section.

We will dearly miss Jan as a very competent engineer and most of all as a wonderful friend. He is survived by his wife Tine, children and grandchildren, whom we offer our warmest sympathy. 

Kees A. Schouhamer Immink,
Rotterdam, Augustus 2020