13.03.2026 19:15
After the historian Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı, who had been receiving treatment at Koç University Hospital for a while due to health issues, passed away at the age of 78, Ortaylı's daughter Tuna Ortaylı made a statement in front of the hospital, saying, "My father lived a very loving and fulfilling life. I hope he touched someone in this life and was of some benefit. Thank you all for coming. Thank you."
Historian Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı, who had been receiving treatment at Koç University Hospital for a while due to health issues, passed away at the age of 78. Following his death, Ortaylı's sister Nuriye Ortaylı and daughter Tuna Ortaylı made a statement to reporters in front of the hospital.
"HE TRIED NOT TO MAKE US FEEL IT"
Nuriye Ortaylı, Ortaylı's sister, stated, "He had been struggling with various health issues for a long time. His problems were increasing, but he was someone who loved life and being active. That’s why he tried as much as possible. He always stayed energetic and tried not to make us feel it. Throughout this process, we received a lot of support from everyone working at Koç University Hospital, all departments, his nurse, technician, doctor, and all the staff. Both he and we as a family are very grateful to all of them. He received the best possible care; both medically and humanely. We owe them a great debt of gratitude. We also thank everyone who called, inquired, and supported us."
TUNA ORTAYLI: HE LIVED WITH GREAT LOVE AND TO THE FULLEST
Tuna Ortaylı, Ortaylı's daughter, said, "First of all, we are grateful to everyone who contributed to this process, from the chief physician of Koç University Hospital to the technical teams. My father lived with great love and to the fullest. I hope he touched someone in his life and was of benefit in some way. Thank you all very much for coming. Thank you."
STATEMENT FROM THE HOSPITAL
In a written statement regarding Ortaylı's death, Koç University Hospital stated, "Since 2020, Mr. Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı, who has been under treatment at our hospital for various chronic diseases, was transferred to the intensive care unit some time ago due to the worsening of his medical condition. Despite all necessary medical interventions, Mr. Prof. Dr. İlber Ortaylı unfortunately passed away today at 15:03. We extend our condolences to his family and all his loved ones."