October 31, 2024 – West Bend, Wi – It’s been a challenging couple of years for Dr. Michael Bardenwerper, owner of Advanced Focus Eyecare in West Bend, Wi. In September 2022, Bardenwerper’s storefront was heavily damaged as part of the Braising Pan strip mall fire.
Fast forward to October 2023 and Bardenwerper opened a newly expanded store on N. Main Street. Then in September of this year, Bardenwerper loses a friend and mentor as Dr. Jerry Olson, owner of West Bend Optical died at the age of 75.
“I’ve known Doc since graduating optometry school in 2012,” said Bardenwerper. “Shortly after his death his wife Sandy called and said she couldn’t move on and grieve until Doc’s birds had a nest. She mentioned how they considered me family and asked if I’d like to take over.”
Both parties knew Doc’s records had to be maintained for 10 years, and with that Advanced Focus Eyecare announced the merger this week with West Bend Optical.
“I told Sandy, we’re not gonna let you down and I will honor Doc’s work,” Bardenwerper said.
”To honor his memory and continue his legacy, West Bend Optical has merged with Advanced Focus Eyecare in West Bend. Together we grow our family of professionals and blend two amazing groups of patients.
“We welcome Dr. Paul Kappell and Optometric Assistant Michelle from West Bend Optical to our team. They bring with them years of experience and a commitment to patient care that aligns perfectly with our values.
“We understand this is a time of transition, and we are committed to providing a seamless experience for all our patients as well as those that newly join us as part of our merger.”
Below is an article that ran earlier this week announcing the merger.
October 30, 2024 – West Bend, Wi – In a true spirit of faith, comfort and caring comes news of the merging of two well known optical businesses in West Bend, Wi.
”To honor his memory and continue his legacy, West Bend Optical has merged with Advanced Focus Eyecare in West Bend. Together we grow our family of professionals and blend two amazing groups of patients.
“We welcome Dr. Paul Kappell and Optometric Assistant Michelle from West Bend Optical to our team. They bring with them years of experience and a commitment to patient care that aligns perfectly with our values.
“We understand this is a time of transition, and we are committed to providing a seamless experience for all our patients as well as those that newly join us as part of our merger.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.”
Dear friends and patients of West Bend Optical,
As you probably have heard, Dr. Jerry Olson passed away on September 22. With a heavy heart, I have decided not to continue working.
A good friend and colleague, Dr. Michael Bardenwerper will be moving West Bend Optical to his location at Advanced Focus Eye Care to continue Dr. Olson’s legacy. Michelle, our optometric assistant, will also be at the new location. After November 1st, appointments will be seen at Dr. Bardenwerper’s location at Advanced Focus Eyecare (just up from Regner Park).
Dr. Bardenwerper started practicing in our office in 2013. Dr. Olson was a huge influence for him to start his own practice.Dr. Olson always said that our patients are our friends and our family, and I know that Dr. Bardenwerper feels the same way.
Thank you for your years of loyalty to Dr. Olson and myself. We know you will be in great hands moving forward.
Sincerely,
Sandy Olson
Advanced Focus Eyecare
1116 N Main Street
West Bend WI 53090
262-247-2343
