In Memoriam - Prof. Dr. Fritz Eggimann (1936 – 2019)

Prof. Dr. Fritz Eggimann was born in Zurich in 1936. He studied at and received his doctorate from the Department of Electrical Engineering at ETH Zurich. His doctoral thesis was awarded the ETH Medal.

On 16 March 1988, the Swiss Federal Council elected Fritz Eggimann as Empa's new Chairman of the Executive Board and full Professor of Information Technology at ETH Zurich. Then he took the task of implementing the newly defined strategy–namely to transform Empa from a materials testing institute into a modern research institution.

During his mandate at Empa, Fritz Eggimann also served as Treasurer of RILEM. In this role, he brought his management expertise to the organization and he took great care in keeping the finances of RILEM in order. His strategic advices were of great value for the organization. Furthermore, he acted as a mentor in the background for many individual members in giving them advice related to the planning of their personal career. In recognition of his support to Rilem, Fritz Eggimann became a RILEM Fellow in 1998 and an Honorary Member in 2002. He was deeply honoured by these recognitions as they reflected his devotion for RILEM.

Fritz Eggimann was always looking forward to attend the regular RILEM meetings. He enjoyed meeting colleagues and friends from around the world and to discuss with them strategic issues. At the same time he was open to get to know new things and to dive into the local culture. I was introduced into RILEM by Fritz Eggimann in 2001 when I took over the position as Treasurer from him. He supported me in this new role in the most effective way. Even in later years, he was always available if his wisdom and leadership was needed in order to master difficult challenges.

In late September 2019, Fritz Eggimann passed away after a heart surgery. Everybody who had the privilege to work with him will remember Fritz as an honorable, optimistic and supportive personality. He truly represented the values of RILEM. We deeply regret the loss of such a fine personality. Our thoughts are with his family.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday October 10th, 2019 at 15.00 in his hometown (Untersiggenthal).

Peter Richner

President of RILEM (2009-2012)