Lightstat’s Ron Eigenbrod dies of heart attack

New York City -- Ron Eigenbrod, founder & CEO of Lightstat Inc., Pleasant Valley, Conn., died suddenly at his New Hartford home on Christmas Eve of a heart attack. He was 59.



A New England native and graduate of the University of Connecticut, Eigenbrod founded Lightstat in 1983, with a simple setback thermostat for commercial applications. The company has grown steadily ever since, and now manufactures energy-saving thermostats for both residential and commercial applications, as well as automatic lighting control systems for commercial applications. Its customers include many of the nation’s retail chains.



A passionate conservationist and an active member of the New Hartford Land Trust, Eigenbrod spent much of his spare time outdoors, hiking, skiing, and working on his farm. He was a familiar and friendly presence at energy- and retail-industry events.



“He will be remembered as a bold and lively soul unencumbered by conventions or the elements, his kinetic and daring spirit always full of life. His absence will be felt, and his jovial personality will be missed,” stated the obituary that appeared in the Hartford Courant



Eigenbrod leaves his wife, Ginger (Panikoff) Eigenbrod, of New Hartford; his sister Roxanne Eigenbrod Zak and her husband Michael; his two nieces Adrienne and Marianna, and brother David McCarthy; and many other family members and friends.



Donations in Eigenbrod’s memory can be made to the New Hartford Land Trust or Animal Friends of Conn.