Your Local Optometrists in the Metro East Area in Illinois
Looking for an optometrist that puts you at ease? It’s time you turn to the local practice in your area for quality vision care from trained professionals that know how to provide a relaxing experience for men, women, and children of all ages. At Lebanon Optometric Center and Breese Family Vision Center, we take pride in offering our clients the best in vision care from a team that’s truly dedicated to helping you see better! Please read more about our experienced team of optometrists, our dedicated staff, and our convenient locations that help busy families fit eye appointments for everyone into their schedule! Read more below and contact our staff to talk about your needs and get started by scheduling your initial vision exam!
Our Story
The story of Lebanon Optometric Center truly is a family affair. Dr. Robert Klinsky and Dr. Charissa Thorpe established Lebanon Optometric Center in 1982 and began serving the needs of people in the Lebanon, IL area. The practice grew, expanding into nearby Breese and establishing Breese Family Vision Center in 1987. In 2012, we received a new addition to our team of optometrists, Dr. Claire Thorpe Klinsky – daughter of Dr. Thorpe and Dr. Klinsky – joined the practice after graduating from UMSL College of Optometry. Dr. Justin Groennert, a 2020 UMSL College of Optometry graduate and cousin to the Thorpe and Klinsky family, joined the practices shortly after graduation and brings even more expertise to our patients! After the addition of Dr. Groennert, Dr. Klinsky did retire in 2021 after 39 years.
At Lebanon Optometric Center, we take pride in offering local people two convenient locations and three optometrists for all their ocular needs!
Robert J. Klinsky, OD
Robert Klinsky graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and immediately began teaching. After a few years leading a classroom, he went back to school and attended the Illinois College of Optometry, graduating in 1981. Upon graduation, Dr. Klinsky established Lebanon Optometric Center with Dr. Charissa Thorpe in 1982. They would marry in 1984 and have two daughters, Claire and Whitney. The couple has gone on to establish two successful optometric practices in the metro-east area. Dr. Klinsky remains an active member of the American Optometric Association, the Illinois Optometric Association, the Breese Chamber of Commerce, and the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Klinsky retired in June of 2021 and is enjoying spending time in his woodworking shop.
Charissa L. Thorpe, OD
Charissa Thorpe graduated from Millikin University in 1977 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology. In 1981, she received her Doctor of Optometry degree. Shortly after, she began practicing with Dr. Robert Klinsky at Lebanon Optometric Center. She married Dr. Klinsky in 1984, and in 1987, she and Robert were able to expand their practice to include a second location, Breese Family Vision Center. When she is not taking care of your family’s vision, she is spending time with her two grandchildren and staying active in her local church. Dr. Thorpe is also a member of the American Optometric Association, the Illinois Optometric Association, the Breese Chamber of Commerce, and the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce. She and Robert have two daughters, Claire and Whitney.
Claire M. Thorpe Klinsky, OD
Claire Thorpe Klinsky is the daughter for Dr. Klinsky and Dr. Thorpe – eye care truly runs in the family! She graduated from Millikin University in 2009 and went on to graduate from University of Missouri – St. Louis College of Optometry in 2012. She currently maintains membership with the American Optometric Association and the Illinois Optometric Association. When not at the office, Claire and her husband Cody enjoy traveling, attending sporting events – especially St. Louis Blues games – golfing, and spending time with their fur-baby, Macy.
Justin F. Groennert, OD
Justin Groennert grew up in Trenton. He attended Quincy University for his undergraduate studies and graduated in 2016 with Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Chemistry while playing college baseball. He earned his doctorate from the University of Missouri – St. Louis College of Optometry in 2020, receiving an award for outstanding achievement in contact lenses from the UMSL faculty. Not only is Justin an accomplished Doctor of Optometry, but he is also the cousin of Robert Klinsky and Charissa Thorpe. He is currently a member of the American Optometric Association and the Illinois Optometric Association. In his free time, he enjoys watching St. Louis sports and spending time outdoors golfing, hunting, and fishing.
Our Affiliations
