ST. LOUIS— Ed Iwinski, optical industry veteran of over 43 years, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 12, in his home near Chicago. He was 73 years old.

Iwinski began his work in the eyecare industry in 1965 as an apprentice optician, and he went on to hold a variety of roles at several companies including Cole National, LensCrafters, Eye Masters of Canada, National Vision and Uhlemann Optical. Most recently, Iwinski held an integral position on Opti-Port’s member recruitment team where he successfully worked to expand Opti-Port’s membership and develop member-supplier relationships.

“Ed was one of those people that just made you smile. Not only was he an optical industry veteran that made significant contributions to the organizations he was a part of, but he also made so many friends along the way,” said Opti-Port president Jim Edwards. “He was just one of the good guys and he will truly be missed by all that knew and loved him.”

Opti-Port is putting together a memory scrapbook of any notes, cards, or thoughts that friends would like to share of their interaction or time with Ed that will be delivered to his family. If you would like to contribute to this scrapbook, please send your thoughts to Opti-Port via email to Jennifer.jackson@optiport.com.

Iwinski is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Karen, his three sons, James, Jeffrey, and Jason, and 11 grandchildren.