Gilles Trachez (1969-2012)

We are deeply saddened to announce the death of our friend and colleague Gilles Trachez. A senior technician in electro-mechanics, and at CERN since 1992, Gilles was a unique example of vibrant energy, with a broad smile and a hearty laugh even when facing utmost difficulties.

Gilles put vigour, flexibility and creativity at the service of the development of the superconducting magnets for the LHC, and in practice all main LHC magnets contain a part of his work. He followed critical contracts for the supply of magnet shells and laminations, and we have fond memories of the visits to a supplier in the Basque region of Spain, ending, after long working days, in happy evenings spent in the local ‘sidreria’. Similarly, we recall long nights spent designing and assembling a polymerization oven to provide an urgent solution for the insulation of the LHC dipole cold bores. Gilles always had a smile on his face, and never hesitated to help a colleague.

In the same spirit, he battled against a long illness with courage and perseverance, until he passed away on Saturday, 8 September 2012. Gilles remains in our memories as a person of exceptional energy, strength and love for life. His passing is a terrible loss. Gilles will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and all who were close to him.

His colleagues and friends from TE-MSC group.

We deeply regret to announce the death of Gilles Trachez on 8 September 2012. Gilles Trachez, who was born on 15 November 1969, worked in the TE Department and had been at CERN since 1 November 1991. The Director-General has sent a message of condolence to his family on behalf of the CERN personnel.

Social Affairs
Human Resources Department