In Memoriam: Raymond P. Alexander OD ’35

Raymond P. Alexander OD ’35 died Nov. 25, 2020, at age 107. Born on Oct. 28, 1913, Alexander migrated from Canada to the United States at 17 years old, aspiring to become an optometrist.

He practiced optometry in downtown Portland for over 55 years before retiring at 80. Alexander continued to hold his licensure from the Oregon Board of Optometry for 84 years, making him Oregon’s oldest licensed optometrist at the time of his death. Alexander's office proudly displayed his Pacific University degree, an original license certificate and his most current license.

He was a contact lens pioneer in Oregon and his practice had an in-house lens laboratory. His wife, Ann, was his optician, and together the couple built a successful business and a lovely life.

Alexander is survived by his wife, Ann; his children, Patricia Gillies, Raymond J. Alexander and Susan Alexander.