Limerick bachelor John O’Donoghue (62) died from a heart attack as he encountered two men in his home in Toomaline, Doon, Co Limerick, last year.
The offending pair, who are cousins, have 60 previous convictions between them.
The intruders are said to have run from Mr O’Donoghue’s home, leaving him collapsed on the ground dying.
Michael Casey (33), from Bay 9, Clonlong, Southill, Limerick, and David Casey (21), of Carragh Park, Coolock, Dublin 17, both pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary and one count of criminal damage.
Imposing terms on each defendant of four years and six months with the final 12 months suspended.
The nature of John O’Donoghue’s death caused national outrage.
Reacting to the sentencing , a spokesperson for the O’Donoghue family said they hoped the State would appeal the men’s jail terms on leniency grounds.
“The sentence was lenient given the circumstances, and I’m disappointed that the sentences were concurrent rather than consecutive, given the premeditation.”
They added: “It’s a matter for the Director of Public Prosecutions. I would hope she would consider (an appeal).”
Imposing terms on each defendant of four years and six months with the final 12 months suspended, judge Tom O’Donnell said: “The court is deeply conscious of the loss suffered by John O’Donoghue’s family.
The sentence will not change the fact Mr O’Donoghue is no longer with us and it will not alleviate his families pain. The court must deal with the burglary charges, and those alone.”