Melvin was born on August 28, 1929 in New York City and although he lived most of his adult life in Ossining, NY until moving to Lasell Village in Newton, MA when he retired, he would always see himself as a son of the Bronx. He practiced optometry for over 50 years in Tarrytown, NY and specialized in visual training, helping thousands of patients including many celebrities and their children. He was a pioneer in the use of yoke prisms, writing articles and speaking on the topic. In later years, his practice became well known for working with people with autism and grew to include patients from all over the world. He eventually would write two books on the subject.
In addition to his optometric career, Melvin had a passion for the arts, both as an admirer and creator. He filled his home, and those of his family, with his work. He started with clay, moved on to wood, and famously created one marble sculpture.
Melvin was preceded in death by his wife Ellen (Paise) and son Jeffrey.
He is survived by his daughter Marla Kannel and her husband Bill and their children Joe and his wife Alyssa, Alex and his fiancé Aubrey, & Ben and his partner Molly; Stuart Kaplan and his wife Angie and their children Morgan, Chase, Orion, & Zane; and David Kaplan and his husband Todd and their son Drew.
Funeral and Shiva will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Lasell Village Employee Sunshine Fund (checks only, make payable to Lasell Village and write in memory of Mel Kaplan) or to a democratic candidate of your choice.
