Ian Johnston, a former director of Dollond & Aitchison Opticians, has died aged 57.
He qualified as an optometrist in 1971. Making his mark as a successful practice manager in Wrexham, he was promoted to regional manager and then division director.
In the 1990s he became marketing director for the group before returning to practice in recent years as a partner in central Birmingham.
Colleague Brian Keefe said that although he cultivated the image of a 'bluff northerner', all who worked with him or for him quickly realised his concern for the well being of others and for 'getting things right'.
Johnston is survived by his wife Christine, sons Carl and Richard and daughter Sian. The family said it was his wish that any donations in his memory be made to Fight for Sight.