Nicholas J. Passias

Nicholas James Passias, born April 7, 1933, passed away while in the company of his loving wife Joan on June 17, 2011. Nick was born in Newcastle, PA and graduated from Newcastle Senior High and Youngstown State University. He married Joan Abraham on May 28 1953, and the couple lived in San Francisco, CA from 1954-1956 while Nick served in the Army at the Presidio. The couple had two sons, James (1954) and George (1957) before moving to Chicago to attend the Illinois School of Optometry, from which he graduated in 1963. Nick practiced optometry in the Columbus area until 1992. During his career, he founded 20/20 vision centers, and helped thousands of people see the world clearly. When not working, he loved golf, and spent a lifetime trying to break 100. He shot a hole-in-one twice, and was a proud member and frequent face at Oakhurst Country Club in Grove City. He also served as President of the Optimist Club, was a member of The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, and loved spending time with his family and his dogs. Survived by his wife of 57 years, Joan; sons James (Anna) and George; brother John (Shirley); grandchildren Emily (Bryan), Nicholas, Andrea (Jason), Elizabeth,and Mitchell. Great grandchildren Riley, Quinn, Sawyer, Gavin, and Ava, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceded in death by his parents, Despina and James Passias. Nick was a kind and gentle man who always had a smile and hug for his friends and family. Family will receive guests on Wednesday, June 22, from 2-4 p.m. at the Schoedinger-Norris Chapel, 3920 Broadway, Grove City, where a funeral service will begin at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.