Mike Daley.

SAFETY HARBOR, Fla.—Longtime optical industry veteran R. Michael (Mike) Daley passed away on Nov. 1 at the age of 73. Daley began his optical career as an instructor with Ferris State University in 1975, and soon joined Essilor in 1976 as a sales consultant for MultiOptics Corporation, which later became Varilux Corporation. Over the following 13 years, his responsibilities increased to include marketing, technical services, laboratory operations, and sales and ultimately resulted in his promotion to president of Varilux Corporation in 1989.

In 1996, Daley was appointed president and COO of Essilor’s United States Lens Division, which became known as Essilor Lenses following the merger of the Varilux and Silor commercial distribution networks. After 32 years with Essilor, he retired in 2008.

Throughout his career, Daley was recognized by his peers and served on numerous industry posts including National Academy of Opticianry (NAO) Hall of Fame; Prevent Blindness America, board of directors; Ferris State University Honorary Doctorate (2006); OLA Hall of Fame and The OLA Directors Choice Award (2006). In 2014, he was named CEO of The Vision Council, where he served through 2016. His tenure at The Vision Council included the roles of chairman of the board of directors, liaison to the Lab Division and CEO.

In addition to these positions, Daley served as a board member at Prevent Blindness, the American Optometric Association Foundation and the Illinois College of Optometry board of trustees over his time in the industry. He also served as director of the Foundation for Eye Health Awareness for one year. In 2016, Daley was honored with the ASCO Industry Leadership Award.

“We are saddened to learn that one of our own legends has passed. If brands are built on the talent and passion of their people, Mike was an architect,” said Paul Du Saillant, deputy CEO EssilorLuxottica. “What he helped to build in his 32 years at Essilor, most remarkable his work to make Varilux the most distinguished brand with the optical community, will leave a mark for years to come. We’re proud to have his son Mike carry on his legacy in our EssilorLuxottica family today.”

Ashley Mills, CEO, The Vision Council, told VMAIL, “Those fortunate enough to have known Mike personally, and those who had the privilege to work with him professionally, will agree that the positive impact he had on the industry and The Vision Council is impossible to express. We are so deeply sad to hear of his passing. Our thoughts are with the incredible Daley family that he was so proud of.”

Daley is survived by his wife Cathy, sons Michael and Timothy, daughters in law Katie and Lindsey, and grandchildren Elisabeth, Edward, Henry and Evan. Service information was not available as of press time. Please check back with VMAIL for any updates, which will be made once they become available.