Obituaries
Dominic Carmen Siviglia, 80
November 18, 2022
On the 18th of November 2022, Dominic Carmen Siviglia, known to his friends and family as Nick, began his eternal life. Born July 14, 1942, he was the son of the late Rocco and Josephine Siviglia and brother to Louis, who also preceded him in death. Nick was the loving husband of Judy Siviglia with whom he shared 26 years of marriage. A loving, kindhearted and brilliant man whose life meant much to many, many people.
Born and raised in Harrisburg, PA, Nick attended John Harris High School, class of 1961. He left school before graduation to work and help with the household bills. Education was very important to Nick. He earned a GED and eventually higher degrees, Doctor of Science in Allied health and Doctor of Philosophy in the Science of Optics.
At 14 years of age, he took an after-school job in the office of Robert Morrison, OD. There he began his career. As Dr. Morrison’s protege, he discovered he had a talent and keen interest in the world of contact lenses. Before long he left Dr Morrison to seek training and knowledge in other labs in Chicago and Oklahoma. He took courses in cornea at The Ohio State University and ocular prosthetic courses Baylor College of Medicine in Texas.
He founded Lancaster Contact Lens Lab in 1962, making contact lenses on a lathe in his living room for local ophthalmologists and optometrists. Eventually as his skills and business grew. He started his own private practice in Lancaster on Duke St, then Walnut St and finally in 1975, built his own building on Eden Road. He practiced there until his retirement in July 2021.
He was director of the contact lens department at Milton S Hershey Medical Center (now Penn State Health) from 1974-1979. He was director of the contact lens department of Osteopathic College of Medicine in Philadelphia 1979-1980, he was a private practitioner in the contact lens department of Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia 1980-1999. He acquired multiple industry credentials of which he was very proud including Certified Ophthalmic Technologists and American Board of Opticians and National Contact Lens Examiners certification. Nick was an Honored Fellow of the Contact Lens Society of America, a past member of the Contact Lens Association of Ophthalmologists and a past member of the Contact Lens Manufacturers of America, who honored him with their Award for Creative Design and Process in 2004. He gave freely of his time to these organizations for over 25 years lecturing and teaching continuing education classes here and abroad.
In 1986 Nick was granted a patent for his Ni-Cone Keratoconus and Post Penetrating Keratoplasty contact lens design. In 1988 he received the first patent for Reverse Geometry contact lens design, he called it the NRK. He was published in industry journals and contributed to several textbooks of ophthalmology on specialty contact lens fitting and design. His unique practice gave him the incredible opportunity to design, manufacture and fit contact lenses and ocular prosthetics for so many patients. Nick always said God gave him the talent and desire to tackle the diseased, the disasters and the difficult patients who found their way to his office. He loved his work, and his patients loved him. He was a warm, compassionate provider of much needed care to many folks with very bad eyes and to those with not so bad eyes, too. He had the ability to make each patient feel like they were the only one he had to care for.
A motto of Nick’s was “work hard, play hard” His love for travel and adventure was evident to all who knew him. His Italian heritage was very important to him. He traveled the world, but it was the many trips to Italy that provided him, and anyone traveling with him, so much joy.
As a young man he learned to hunt and respect nature. He enjoyed telling stories about his successful hunting trips to Canada, Alaska and Colorado. His collection of animals was proof the stories were real. An athlete of many sports in high school, he especially football. As an adult he enjoyed competitive tennis in the 1980’s. He took up golf late in life and found he really enjoyed it. Family vacations on Hilton Head Island and ski trips to Colorado hold many fond memories. Nick enjoyed a party—going to them as well as having them. He loved entertaining and was good at it. He loved to dance and enjoy life to its fullest. A man of very strong faith, Nick was an active member of First United Methodist Church, Lancaster.
Judy, will miss Nick and all they enjoyed together from traveling to shopping, playing tennis and golf as well as working together as a team at Lancaster Contact Lens. He will also be deeply missed by his loving and devoted daughter Jenell Smith, her husband Allen, and their children Kyle and Madison of Alexandria, Virginia, as well as Judy’s devoted children Tara Weaver and her partner Darren Beaudet of China, Maine and her son Daniel Weaver, his wife Meredith, and their children Evan Moyer and Josephine Weaver of Colorado Springs, Colorado. They all will miss their Dad and Pop more than words can express. Nick is also survived by his loving sister Martha Griest, as well as nieces, nephews and cousins.
Family and friends are invited to a Life Celebration service at First United Methodist Church, 29 East Walnut St Lancaster Pa on December 2 at 10:00 am. There will be a visitation Thursday from 6-8pm at the church.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Water Street Mission, Lancaster Pa or Twin Pines Camp, Stroudsburg, PA.
Watch the tribute videoLeave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
October 20, 2023
My condolence For You And Your Family Cheryl Simpson
August 30, 2023
Just saw this that Nick had passed, sorry for your loss Judy, We always loved seeing you guys. Bobby and Suzette Eckhart jr.
February 25, 2023
Judy and the family, I really want to express my deepest sympathy over the passing of Nick. I was shocked to hear of his departure. I was a patient of Nick’s for many years. My perscription was a very difficult one to fit utilizing contact lens. However, Nick met the challenge with the most professional approach I have ever had in a doctor. When he would come into the exam room, it was like we were good ole freinds meeting up again. We had fun during the examinations. I will really miss seeing you and Nick dancing at the Lancaster Swing Dance nights. Blessed peace be with you. Donald Lentz
February 25, 2023
I’ve just heard of Dr. Nick’s passing and I wish to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and co-workers. I was newly 15 when I first visited Nick for contact lens. We had an on-going relationship until I moved away from Lancaster 36 years later. Dr. Nick, in a word, represented strength to me. A handsome and formatable man, he was as gentle as he was smart. He knew so much. He cared a lot. During one appointment for an eye check-up, Nick was running customarily late and there was a baby, somewhere in the office complex, crying and crying loudly, taking deep breaths before the next on-slaught of wails. Concerned, I had moved to the front of my chair then finally stood up considering action to further investigate when the crying suddenly stopped. I stood at the door of the examination room in the new silence when, after a pregnant pause, the door across the hall opened up. There stood Judy with a couple, clearly husband and wife who were standing, holding each other. An assistant was at the door and Nick was kneeling next to a baby, not even a toddler yet, with a chubby little body and big ole round head covered in a small fur of blonde hair. The child, with his overly large blue eyes, was looking around the room, pausing, taking in whatever he saw before moving on to the next sight. Dr. Nick had just placed contacts onto this child’s eyes and he was seeing the world around him for the first time. It was a moment of awe and wonder. The beauty of the moment brought tears to my young eyes as I grasped the miracle before me, realizing that Dr. Nick Siviglia was a man who brought sight to those who could not see. Thank you Dr. Nick for your example, for your kindness and for leaving this world better than you found it. David Heisterkamp
January 11, 2023
Prayers and condolences. . Ken Whiting
December 04, 2022
So sorry to hear about Nick, Judy. Thinking about you as you grieve your loss. Nick was a great guy and doctor. He will missed!
December 02, 2022
Nick was such a kind and caring professional and will be greatly missed. I always loved hearing how he enjoyed having his daughter Jenell visit. It was so long ago, I’m not sure of all the details, but he seemed to love doting on her and being a refuge from the stress of a demanding job. I was so impressed and just a tad envious. 🙂 Jenell you were blessed to have him as your father!
December 02, 2022
I met Nick when I was 16 and got my first contact lenses from him. I would see him from time to time and ran into him again at his office on Eden Road in the 1990’s. He was always smiling, pleasant and looked professional in his white lab coat. I watched the tribute and it was beautiful. He obviously lived a full life and devoted a lot of love to his family as well as patients. He will be missed. My condolences to the family.
December 02, 2022
Judy, Thinking of you during this time of grieving. I started going to Nick in 1974 and have very fond memories of all he did for me.
December 02, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss, Judy! My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Jacquie “Bratton”
December 01, 2022
Judy & family, we were so sorry to hear of Nick’s passing. We have been patients of Nick for many years and his knowledge of contact lenses was amazing! Nick was a very caring person and will be greatly missed by many. We watched the tribute video and enjoyed seeing Nick and his family’s travels throughout the world! Judy, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Patty & Dennis Rupp.
December 01, 2022
Nick fitted my first contact lenses in 1966, 56 years of life flew by, and I became one of his oldest patients. We had an unforgettable friendship over the years.
December 01, 2022
My Condolences Judy and family. Nick will surely be missed.
December 01, 2022
Dear Judy and Families,
My sincere sympathy in the passing of Nick. I remember him well as a kind and fun-loving person.
My thoughts are with you and your family. Love, Ilse Ludewig
November 30, 2022
My deepest sympathy to Judy and Nicks family. He was my hero!!! I first saw Nick for contacts when I was 12 yrs old. I was his patient for 52 years…. he saw me thru many eye issues and every time got me seeing the best as possible. Nick was always very kind, friendly, caring and genuine. He will be missed! Cherie Donovan
November 28, 2022
My sincerest condolences to Judy and to all of Nick’s family. Have known him as a patient since I was 19. He was such a kind and competent man. He helped me with my keratoconus for almost 50 years. He will certainly be missed.
November 28, 2022
It was a pleasure to know Nick. He always was warm and welcoming. My sincerest condolences to his wife, Judy, and to all of his family. I am so sorry for your loss
November 28, 2022
Nick fitted me with my first contact lenses in 1970. For 44 years, he continued my care until I had cataract surgery and no longer needed lenses. Nick was always friendly, professional, and charming. It was a delightful experience to travel to Lancaster to receive treatment from Nick. My deepest condolences to Judy and their children. Nick was one of a kind.
November 28, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of Nick’s death. I was a patient of Nick & Judy for 18 years. I am truly grateful for their dedication to helping me see better. My condolences to his family.
November 28, 2022
I was 15 years old when Dr. Ripple referred me to Nick back in 1973. I have had eye problems my whole life, and I basically only have one good eye. Nick took excellent care of my vision, and he was such a kind and caring person. I am now 65 years old – so I really did grow up with him! Judy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Nick will be greatly missed.
November 26, 2022
I was referred to Nick when I was a college student in the 1970’s for help with my uncomfortable hard contact lens. He has been a godsend to me over the years, transitioning me to soft lenses and taking very good care of my vision all these years. I always enjoyed my visits to the office. It was like visiting family. Judy, I am so sorry. I know the heartbreak you must be experiencing. I will never forget the kind, caring letter I got from you and Nick upon the passing of my beloved Joe. For what it’s worth, I found the grief support from Pathways Grief and Bereavement Center to be quite helpful. My thoughts are with you and your family. Remember, grieving takes just as long as it takes.
November 26, 2022
To Judy and your family, I am very sorry for your broken hearts. Dr. Nick was a blessing to me for many years and sometimes prayed with me when things were difficult. He had a loving heart, a godly wisdom, and the gift of helping others. I so appreciated his expertise and I believe that his care has greatly impacted my vision for the good. I was sad when he retired, but I was glad that he had time with his family.
November 25, 2022
To the wonderful family of Nick Siviglia, I am truly sorry for your loss and will keep your family in prayer. I have never been so impacted by a professional like I was with Nick. I cried after my first visit with him because I had never received such a loving, compassionate and thorough care before until I walked into his office. He would chide me over the condition of my lenses and warn me that I should not be involved in any “fisty cuffs.” I know he was a person of faith because my appointments with him always felt like God was touching me through him. I am just a patient but feel the profound loss of such a great man and I know that it must be even harder for family. He did not waste his life and he touched others. I am certain that God will welcome him with these words, “Welcome home faithful servant!” May we all live lives that spill the love of Christ to others! You will be deeply missed Nick. Your Haitian patient- Daniel Cabrol
November 23, 2022
Judy, both you and Nick were wonderful Stephen Ministers, and helped several people in our FUMC congregation. Nick was always so very friendly and giving. My prayers and love go out to you and your families. Fondly, Martha Adams
November 23, 2022
Judy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Nick was the most knowledgable, kind and caring professional I have ever had the privledge of working with. He was always happy and upbeat and I remember he always called me “better Bouder”. I am truly sad this wonderful person is no longer with you. I have been so blessed to have known him and also knowing you. May God bring you peace at this sad time. Nancy Bouder
November 23, 2022
I always felt safe and well taken care of with Nick’s expertise, guidance, and reassurance. I was a patient for almost 50 years, and I will forever be thankful for having the care of Nick and the staff of Lancaster Contact Lens Lab.
Judy, you and Nick were a perfect team. You both always put the patients first. Your practice was a blessing to patients. The staff always kind, patient, and truly professionslonal on all levels.
He will be missed by so many people. My prayers to your family at this time.
November 22, 2022
I first met Nick when he was with Dr Ripple on Duke Street. I started wearing glasses when I was 5 years old and my vision was getting worse. He suggested contacts and I wore them for over 40 years. To me, he was a saint. Judy, I’m so sorry . May all the memories bring you joy and comfort. Nick was the best!
November 22, 2022
I knew Nick from Stephen Ministry and the balcony for church serices. Nick was a god man. Judy, I’m sorry for you loss. David Spracher.
November 21, 2022
We were friends with Nick for over 45 years and we have many fun memories. Nick was a great organizer and for several years he was in charge of the Carnevale for the Lancaster, Italian, cultural society. What a great parties we had! Nick and Judy even entertained us with a wonderful Italian dance in honor of his heritage. We will all miss him a lot, and we feel fortunate to have known him. john and Dolores Gareis
November 21, 2022
Judy, I came to Nick 1976 for my contacts. Without a doubt he was the best medical professional I’ve had in my 70 years. No doctor ever knew me, cared about me or treated me better. In the past 40 plus years I’ve met many fellow contact wearers and every one had something good to say about Nick. He will be missed.
November 21, 2022
We only knew Nick 8 or 10 years through Sunday Classes, but his infectious smile and mild manner always drew us in. I am also in awe of those who have titles and programs I can’t pronouce… Nick, you will be missed by many, and we pray the Lord will touch those many with His Grace, and show His Love through many comforting memories, and moments of peace. Dave and Judy Hollinger
November 21, 2022
Thinking of you Judy. May your beautiful memories give you comfort during this difficult time. Nick was so friendly always asking about Thom. Love and prayers your way….❤️🙏. Mary Whitlatch.
November 21, 2022
Dear Judy,
Please accept our deepest sympathy as you mourn Nick’s passing. We always enjoyed your company in Sunday school and look back fondly on our time at FUMC because of folks like both of you.
Prayers for peace,
Karen and Dave Stadden
November 21, 2022
Dear Judy and family: I was saddened to hear of Nick’s passing. Nick took excellent care me, he improved my vision with hard contact lens. Our relationship and friendship began 54 years ago when his office was on Walnut Street. You have my deepest sympathy. George George
November 21, 2022
Bless you soldier of Christ!
November 20, 2022
So sorry for your loss! He was a wonderful eye DR and person and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you Judy! Cindy Bertz
November 20, 2022
I will truly miss Nick. I’ve known him since I was 18. He was a fine and generous individual in addition to being the best in his professional field. When I was first out of college and not making much money at all Nick, on several occasions, treated me at no charge, being as he was a dear friend of the family. He had the capacity to make people feel special, because, in his case, that is what special people look to do. God bless you, Nick.
November 20, 2022
Sorry to hear of Nick’s passing. As a patient of his, his knowledge and expertise were greatly appreciated. With sympathy.
November 20, 2022
My condolences Judy to you and your family. I have fond memories of Nick. He touched so many professionally and personally. My prayers go out to you.
November 20, 2022
RIP Nick,
I was a patient and he was everything you say he was. He will be greatly missed.
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- Thursday, December 01, 2022
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- First United Methodist Church,
- 29 East Walnut St
- Lancaster, PA 17602
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- Friday, December 02, 2022
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- Lancaster, PA 17602
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