Jan-Felix Müller

June 25, 1998 – October 22, 2024

I dedicate this space to the memory of Jan-Felix Müller. Jan-Felix was a brilliant Ph.D. student in philosophy at Florida State University: PhilPeople profile

Jan-Felix was truly an angel who graced this world with his presence. I find it hard to imagine meeting someone as bright, cheerful, and curious as him again.

In my early days here in Tallahassee, struggling with even the simplest English, J-F patiently listened to my broken words. It is no small thing for someone to listen closely when we feel as if we have lost our ability to express ourselves. It was as if, without the language to express myself, I had lost part of my identity, and felt like a helpless infant. Yet, with his sparkling eyes and attentive presence, he gave me the strength to feel seen and understood. He was the first person with whom I connected despite the absence of a shared native language. From this, I found strength in my fragile existence.

Later, when I was going through the pain of failing my first attempt at applying to graduate school, Jan-Felix and our friends formed a reading group that became a lifeline for me. A reading group was not just about reading some philosophical papers—it was about believing in myself again. His generosity gave me the courage to share my thoughts in halting English, a small but meaningful beginning that eventually brought me to where I am today—a PhD student in philosophy at Purdue University. I will always be grateful for those moments.

At first, J-F’s direct way of speaking sometimes caught me off guard, as someone coming from Korea, where communication is often more indirect. But I soon realized that his directness came from a place of deep care and interest in others. His words carried warmth, a desire to know others more deeply and love them more fully. Looking back, I now deeply understand that his way of speaking reflected an expansive and profound love for those around him. His presence always carried an unspoken invitation to know others more fully, and I feel incredibly grateful for the love he shared.

I only wish I could have expressed that my gratitude better in return. I regret that some of my clumsy and unpolished words may have hurt him, and it breaks my heart that we no longer have the chance to share these thoughts and feelings together.

His sudden passing leaves a painful void in all our lives. But for those of us who knew him, his love continues to resonate, like a light that lingers even after its source has gone—deep, abiding, and unforgettable.

Rest in peace, dear Jan-Felix. You will always live in our hearts.

Woomin Park
10/29/2024