MONTVALE, N.J. -- Alfred Villavecchia, Sr., former optical retailer and founder of the ophthalmic buying group bearing his family's name, passed away on November 29. He was 82.

The first recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award of the New Jersey Opticians Association and a past president and member of the Guild of Prescription Opticians of New Jersey, Villavecchia originated one of the U.S. industry's first buying groups in 1980.

Alfred Villavecchia, Sr.

Villavecchia's family owned and operated a retail store established in 1900, marking 101 years of business before closing its doors to concentrate solely on the buying group, which now serves 1,100 ECP members. Al Villavecchia, Jr., his sister, Diane and Villavecchia's grandson Adam continue to run the business. "Our family is very grateful for all the support that has been extended by our members and vendors through these difficult times," said Villavecchia.

Villavecchia is survived by his wife, Jean; his children, Diane and her husband, Joe; Al, Jr. and his wife, Lenore, and grandchildren Meghan, Joseph, Adam, Brian and Peter.