In Memoriam Matthijs Hesselink
On 21 July, at the far too young age of 57, Matthijs Hesselink passed away. Matthijs was Professor of ‘Physical Activity and Metabolic Health’ at the Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences within the research institute NUTRIM, and a highly valued colleague both nationally and internationally. But even more than this description, Matthijs was a down-to-earth man from Twente with a great sense of humour, a mentor to many students and PhD candidates, someone with a great ability to put things into perspective, he always had a listening ear and was constantly striving for the best for everyone - academic staff, support staff, PhD candidates, and students.
Some people leave a lasting impression, not by seeking the spotlight, but simply by always being there. That was typical Matthijs.
In 1987, Matthijs began studying Health Sciences at our university, followed by a degree in Human Movement Sciences. He was subsequently appointed as a PhD candidate at the former Department of Human Movement Sciences, where, immediately after completing his doctorate, he was appointed Assistant Professor. Through his dedication, expertise, and warm personality, he became a deeply valued colleague. From 2006 to 2012, he served as Head of the Department of Human Movement Sciences, years during which the department flourished and developed its own identity. In 2011, Matthijs was appointed Professor of Human Movement Sciences - a well-deserved recognition of his leading scientific and societal contributions. Years later, at his own request, the title of his chair was changed into ‘Physical Activity and Metabolic Health’, as it more accurately reflected the focus of his work. Throughout his scientific career, Matthijs was involved in numerous groundbreaking discoveries that significantly influenced his field of research. His name will therefore remain associated with it.
What made Matthijs truly special was his genuine interest in people. He was always present, listened attentively, and with a question, a smile, or a touch of humour, made you feel that you mattered. His door was always open. His energy, sense of perspective, perseverance, and commitment made him an inspiring colleague and a wonderful person to work with. For many of us, Matthijs was much more than a colleague or supervisor. He brought people together, inspired confidence, and left a lasting impression. He lived a healthy lifestyle, was critical and sometimes stubborn, never avoided a confrontation, but always approached it with respect. After careful consideration, he was also willing and able to reflect on himself. That final quality was a valuable trait that brought him to where was today.
Matthijs himself was athletic and active, fitting the field to which he dedicated himself with such enthusiasm. In addition to his many contacts within the academic world, he had close connections with the professional sports community, with a particular interest in cycling. Many professional cyclists crossed paths with Matthijs at some point during their careers. Matthijs was also committed to sport because of his knowledge of his own health and that of those close to him. He understood better than anyone how a healthy lifestyle could positively influence it. It is remarkable how, throughout this time, he dealt with this uncertainty and its possible implications.
We are deeply grateful for everything Matthijs meant to our field, our department, our research institute, and each of us personally. Our thoughts are with Martine, his children and grandchildren, his friends, and everyone who loved him. We wish them much strength in dealing with this great loss.
Dear Matthijs, thank you for your warmth, your humour, your dedication, and your genuine care for others. We will miss you.
On behalf of all colleagues of the Department of Nutrition and Movement Sciences and all colleagues of the NUTRIM Research Institute
Professor Jogchum Plat and Professor Daisy Jonkers
