Our Doctors

Dr Robert Lidkea – Optometrist and Clinic Founder 

 

Fun Fact:

In 1952, Dr Robert Lidkea was the YOUNGEST practicing optometrist in Ontario and now in 2021 he is the OLDEST practicing optometrist! You rock Bobby!

 

 

History of his practise:

Dr. Robert Lidkea came to Fort Frances in 1952 to become part of the Fort Frances Clinic, which at that time had 2 M.D’s, 1 Dentist, an Optometrist and a Pharmacy.

Dr. Robert Lidkea graduated as a "Registered Optometrist" in 1952, from the College of Optometrists in Toronto (Gold Metal). In 1957 and 1958 he returned for post graduate studies and earned his "Doctor of Optometry".

In 1965 he served on the committee to commemorate the official opening on the Noden Causeway. Along with most of the committee members, he also formed the 1967 Centennial Committee.

He was President of the Ontario Association of Optometrists from 1975 to 1976. He was accepted as a fellow in the American Academy of Optometrists in 1983 and was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Waterloo in 1987. 

Bob has been a member of the Kiwanis Club of Fort Frances since 1952 and has 60 years of perfect attendance. He became President in 1961 (the youngest President in the history of the Club) and was elected Lt. Governor in 1973-1974. Later he again served as President in 1996 - 1997 and has been the secretary for many years.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He was elected to Town Council for 2 terms (5 years) and served on many local boards. One of the appointments was as the representative on the District Health Council where he became Vice Chairman. The District Health Council asked him to remain on, as a member of the Emergency Health Committee and he worked at district, regional and provincial levels.

Dr. R.E. Lidkea was honoured by his profession by receiving the Ontario Association of Optometrists '2004 Millenium Award for Public Service'. The Millenium Award recognizes a member of the Ontarion Association of Optometrists who has performed extraordinary public service, in either a professional or non-professional capacity. The emphasis is on public service. 

Dr. R.E. Lidkea also received the great honour of being named “Fort Frances’ Citizen Of The Year” in 2007. He is both a stand up person, and doctor.