Page 22 - Lighting Magazine July 2018

in MEMoriaM
Eric Lebersfeld of Capitol Lighting in Florida and New Jer- sey says, “A be er man I have not met. A more generous soul would be hard to nd. The consummate entertainer, the brilliant creator, the most gracious host, the thoughtful and visionary businessman, loving father to his biological family and his light- ing family, Ira will be missed by all. Just like a pebble thrown into a pond creates ripples extending to the shore, Ira’s presence was more akin to the waves caused by someone doing a joyous cannonball. He was a powerhouse of goodwill and good busi- ness. His energy lives on in all who were fortunate to learn from, work with, laugh with, or get served nova from him.”
Ira’s son, Todd, says he is touched by the vast amount of con- dolences expressed to his family.
“What joy to see such an outpouring of love, respect, and warm memories for our dad from the industry and a lifetime of friends from all over the world. He loved to help people and truly changed many people’s lives by being a mentor and a friend. Ira’s true gi was having time for everyone he met and to make them feel important. He loved being the patriarch of both our family and Quoizel.
“My dad was an amazing man — a forward and creative think- er who was so con dent and fearless about pu ing his ideas to work,” he re ects. “The lighting industry has lost a great leader and icon; a pioneer who wanted to advance the importance of lighting to the American consumer. He will be sorely missed, but forever remembered.” 
Adds Rick Wiedemer of Hinkley Lighting, “As a member of
the Lighting Hall of Fame, Ira was widely recognized as an innovator in our industry and the patriarchal leader of his company. Ira was a mentor to many and always a friendly competitor; good for a bit of advice, a resounding laugh, or to loan us a depleted item from our bar. I cherish the personal relationship I had with him for many years.”
Eric Jacobson, President of the American Lighting Association (ALA), comments, “When you talk about the lighting industry and the people who built it, Ira Philips is always mentioned. He was a pillar and an icon. His name is synonymous with the lighting industry. “The impact that Ira Philips made on the lighting industry is remarkable. Through his vivacious personality and personal sales ability and grit, Ira helped put the lighting industry on the map. He was always forward- thinking and helped ALA in every endeavor over the years including the launch of ALA’s BiNational Advertising and PR program. As a member of the ALA Lighting Hall of Fame, Ira is in elite company,” Jacobson remarks. “He had a deep love and a ection for the people in his life, and was truly happy sharing his opinions and helping others along the way. The lighting industry will never forget his legacy of service and commitment, and his smile and energy will be missed.”
20 enLIGHTenment Magazine | july 2018 www.enlightenmentmag.com