After successful emergency brain surgery, Wiedemer shows signs of improvement.
The lighting industry was collectively shocked and saddened last week when word spread that Avon Lake, Ohio-based Hinkley Lighting’s CEO Rick Wiedemer – who had been set to receive the Supplier of the Year Award at Lighting One’s Gala Awards night – had suffered a serious fall in Cleveland prior to Lightovation: The Dallas International Lighting Market and was undergoing emergency cranial surgery.
Wiedemer – who is on Lightovation’s board of governors and a major supporter of the Market Choice Awards held at June Market – has rarely, if ever, missed a market and his presence was greatly missed by his customers, reps, fellow manufacturers and peers, as well as employees and family.
According to a statement released by Hinkley Lighting today, Wiedemer remains in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, but is slowly recovering and is showing signs of improvement.
“Everyone knows our dad’s a fighter – his tenacity has grown our business and advanced its success. We know his determination will serve him well on his road to recovery,” says Jess Wiedemer, President of Hinkley. “We are in awe of the amazing medical team caring for him. I know I speak for my entire family when I say that my brother and I are truly thankful for their expertise and help.”
The Wiedemer family and extended Hinkley family is also deeply appreciative of the support and encouragement for Rick from the lighting industry and beyond.
“The outpouring of support for our dad from across the industry has been astonishing,” adds Eric Wiedemer, Vice President and General Counsel of Hinkley. “We’ll be providing updates on my dad as he hits milestones in his recovery.”
Rick Wiedemer will celebrate his 50th anniversary with Hinkley Lighting in July. He heads the fourth generation of his family running the company and will be inducted into the American Lighting Association (ALA) Hall of Fame in September at the organization’s conference in Arizona.
Rick so glad you are on the road to recovery. I missed you at Lighting one and seeing you at market. All my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Wishing Rick Godspeed on a fast recovery.
I’m sure he will be back stronger than ever.
Regards, Anthony
Dear Rick,
You are on our minds . We are wishing you a speedy recovery.
All my best
Judy Ziccardi
Rick – glad to hear you are on the road to recovery!
So sorry to hear! Wished for a speedy recovery Rick!
I just learned of Rick’s passing. I am shocked and deeply saddened. He was one of the most inspirational leaders in our industry. My heart goes out to his family, which includes everyone at Hinkley. I, and the staff of Kilohana Lighting, share in the great sorrow for the loss of such a dynamic role model, not only for the lighting industry, but life in general.