Dr. Richard "Rich" Lazar, 52, local spine surgeon, died late Friday, April 1, 2011, from injuries sustained while skiing in Canada. Dr. Lazar was a partner in Colorado Springs Orthopedic Group since moving to Colorado Springs in 1998. Rich is survived by his wife of 27 years Jennifer Simon and his three sons: Gordon, Glenn, Drew Lazar. He is also survived by his mother Ruth Mortensen Lazar, Phoenix; Sister-in-law Lauren Simon, Chicago; Brother-in-law Bruce (Pam) Simon, Colorado Springs and Nephew Max Simon, Denver; Niece Abby Simon, Boulder; Brother Zachery Lazar and Sister Stacey Watson. Rich had a Masters Degree in Bio-Mechanical Engineering from Northwestern University. He attended the University of Chicago for Medical School and went on to Harvard University for his orthopedic surgery residency and completed spine fellowships at Boston Children's Hospital and Thomas Jefferson Hospital, Philadelphia. Rich was an avid sportsman and athlete. He played junior hockey in Canada and captained the University of Illinois-Chicago Hockey team. Rich's passion for skiing, golf and outdoor adventures was second only to his love of family. He was a generous contributor to many charities, organizations and causes. He lived life to the fullest and will be greatly missed by all. There will be a Memorial Service at the Shove Chapel on the Colorado College Campus at 11:30-Friday/April 8, 2011. The family requests donations to Colorado Trail Foundation or MAZON in lieu of flowers.
I remember Rich - we had English class together. He lost his dad during that time and I've often thought of him and his family over the years. I'm so sorry to hear about his passing!
I remember Richard from our days at Clarendon and West. He was one of the few guys in the AP classes. We enjoyed his sense of humor and insightful commentary on literature and other subjects. He will be missed.
He was a very gifted man and a valued friend from my childhood. I spent a lot of time with he and Kevin McCabe at the ice rink. Those were good memories. He loved hockey. He was amazing to watch on the ice.
I'm just learning of his passing. I hoped to see him at our 40th reunion. My prayers are with his family, colleagues, patients, and fellow friends. The Lord be with you all. Amen.
Janet Fuller
Dr. Richard Lazar
Melissa Ruby (Dugan)
I remember Rich - we had English class together. He lost his dad during that time and I've often thought of him and his family over the years. I'm so sorry to hear about his passing!
Tina Engel
I remember Richard from our days at Clarendon and West. He was one of the few guys in the AP classes. We enjoyed his sense of humor and insightful commentary on literature and other subjects. He will be missed.He was a very gifted man and a valued friend from my childhood. I spent a lot of time with he and Kevin McCabe at the ice rink. Those were good memories. He loved hockey. He was amazing to watch on the ice.
I'm just learning of his passing. I hoped to see him at our 40th reunion. My prayers are with his family, colleagues, patients, and fellow friends. The Lord be with you all. Amen.