The tight-knit Sifflet family is grappling with an overwhelming loss following the unexpected passing of 51-year-old Jahn Sifflet, a core member of the award-winning Xuvo Carnival band, who died suddenly on Sunday. Remembered by loved ones as a kind, steady, and humble leader who dedicated himself to lifting up those around him, Jahn leaves behind a legacy of service, collaboration, and quiet strength that touched both his family and the wider Carnival community.
As the eldest of four Sifflet siblings who built and run Xuvo together, Jahn served as the backbone of both the family and the band. Beyond his role leading the group’s road management team, he was the go-to problem solver for every challenge, whether the issue arose in their personal lives or their shared creative business. His sister Maier Sifflet — Xuvo’s creative director — shared that Jahn’s calm, measured approach kept the family grounded through years of growth, even as the four siblings brought distinct personalities and perspectives to their work.
The Xuvo Carnival band itself grew directly out of the Sifflet family’s long-standing shared love for cultural celebration and collaborative work. Founded by the four siblings in 2019, the band reached a major career milestone earlier this year when it took home the coveted title of Band of the Year at the annual Carnival celebrations. Beyond his work with the band, Jahn built a respected career as a lawyer, and he carried the same dedication and pride into his legal work that he brought to the family’s creative projects.
Maier reflected that the profound public outpouring of support following Jahn’s passing is a testament to the warm, lasting impression he left on everyone he met. For the Sifflet family, who built their bond around daily check-ins, shared jokes, and constant connection through their family group chat, the gap left by Jahn’s absence feels enormous. “We feel empty,” Maier shared, acknowledging the depth of the family’s grief.
Even as they mourn, the family has committed to staying united, honoring the steady leadership Jahn provided throughout his life. Maier noted that Jahn would want the family to stay strong and carry on the work they built together. The family is currently planning a special public tribute to celebrate Jahn’s life and legacy, one that reflects his personality and the things he loved most. A portrait of Jahn has already been placed on public display at La Place Carenage, near the local courthouse, for community members to pay their respects.
Maier said the family has found small comfort in the widespread love and support they have received from relatives, friends, and Jahn’s girlfriend, a reminder of how many lives he touched. “He was loved … by everyone,” she said. “He has been an amazing son, brother, grandchild, friend and just truly an amazing human being.” Though the hole left by his passing will not easily be filled, the Sifflet family and the entire Xuvo community hold fast to the memories of a man who gave his all to every person and project he cared about. In closing, Maier reaffirmed what the whole family knows to be true: “Truly, We have lost a good one.”