It is with deep sadness that I note the passing of my dear friend, mentor and role model Uncle Frank Fontana. A St. Louis-based, internationally recognized optometric icon, Frank was an unstoppable force of nature who helped shape the profession, but will be best remembered by his many friends for his incredible humanity. Frank had many “nieces” and “nephews,” and I was proud to be among them. He was the only person I’ve ever met who carried photos of his friends’ kids in his wallet. The title “Uncle” wasn’t honorary. Frank earned it.

Optometry was Frank’s life, and his love for the profession was infectious. He graduated from ICO in 1949 after serving in the US Army during WWII. Many of us were lucky enough to hear Frank’s stories from the war, which he would happily share, usually over dinner. Frank opened his practice in 1950 and never stopped doing what he loved. He was a true contact lens pioneer, helping to popularize contact lenses by teaching colleagues across the country about the advancing technology. He was also among the very first key opinion leaders and industry consultants in optometry, and his hard work and dedication paved a path of respect for those of us who followed.

Uncle Frank was a prolific and sought-after lecturer and author. One of my great memories was sharing the podium with him at the old Vision Expo Midwest some years ago during what I suspect was his last lecture. Always involved in the profession, Frank was a founding member and second chair of the AOA Contact Lens Section and a tireless AOA volunteer. I had the honor of being sworn in by Frank when I became chair of the CLCS in 2005. Review of Optometry was another passion we shared. Frank served as an editor since 1999 and was an important part of the Review family. He received the first Review of Optometry Life Achievement award. I’ve also written pieces about Frank in Optometric Physician more than I’ve written about anyone else.

As life ran its unpredictable course, Frank and I became increasingly intertwined. I got to share many incredible moments and memories with him, his beloved wife Doris and my buddy Frankie Jr., who was always at his dad’s side. While Shannon and I are devastated by his loss, there is some solace in knowing that Uncle Frank left us doing what he loved most. He was in Las Vegas, attending Vision Expo West, holding court, surrounded by people who loved him.

Arrangements for a memorial service and a celebration of his life will be announced.

Arthur B. Epstein, OD, FAAO Chief Medical Editor artepstein@optometricphysician.com