Dr. Lazar Obituary

Dr. Lazar was the most incredible surgeon! I will never forget him. He performed two back surgeries on me. I am still benefitting from his skilled hand today. One thing I noticed the very first time I met him, was his fashionable style and his SHOES! I loved his shoes! But his SMILE was the best!

I was truly blessed to have had Dr. Lazar, perform two back surgeries on me. He was always a gentleman, and professional, and (quite a looker) He always treated me with respect and a smile on his face. My heart was broken when I learned of his passing, I was scheduled to see him that same week for a check up. I will always remember him with a grateful heart. My sincere condolences to his family.

Back has been better the last three years.Always worried it might go bad but not as much anymore. Dr Lazar had some great hands.

Now my son in law is in his last year in residency in Denver than off to Seattle for a year of fellowship. He of all things is a spine surgeon. He just lost a former teammate in Afghanistan last week who was special forces stationed at Ft Carson who were together on two tours of Iraq son in law being the medic. Some lives just end before their time.

It's been 20 years since my scoliosis correction surgery (T3-L1 fusion). I haven't had any pain or problems at all. Surgeons who have seen the work Dr. Lazar did always comment on what a great job he did. My scar is also barely visible. My mom and I were really happy with the care Dr Lazar gave me. Besides being a fantastic surgeon, he was a very kind man, very special. I think of him often and then pray for his wife and children.

Rich and I were in high school English class together. He lost his dad during that time, and I have thought of him and his family throughout the years. I am so sorry to hear of his passing.

I remember him from high school, he really loved hockey and wanted to be a professional hockey player back then...

He did my back in 2009 and now in 2016 it is hurting again and without him I don't know who to go to. He was a fantastic man and a GREAT surgeon.

Dr. Lazar was honest and straight forward with his patients. Five minutes prior to my surgery he had to speak to me about the possible outcome. After he explained it I told him that I was in his hands and that he was in the hands of the Almighty. That was January 2001. I have finally started to have pain in my back but only caused from work. I missed speaking with him by two weeks, they had to cancel my appointment due to his accident. Richard, you did a fantastic job on me and I am very thankful. Thank you for a job well done and may the wind always be at your back

Over a year ago Dr Lazar did my second surgery so I wouldn't lose the ability to walk. Now he should be here so I can brag on what great work he did. We were laughing before the surgery and because it was him, I had no worries. There is not a day I don't think of him and I am thankful for the time I did know him. Dr. Lazar you will be missed by so many and you were loved by so many. I agree you were one of a kind...so very special.
Jeannie Wolff Colorado Springs, Co

I have never nor will I find a Surgeon like Doctor Lazar. He is greatly missed.

It has been over a year since this tragic incident. It has been 2 years since he did the surgery on my back. I just want to say, he was such a good surgeon that i have not been able to find a doctor that is good enough to take his place. It is so sad that we are all without a terrific surgeon, a good friend, a wonderful husband and father. He is so missed and there will never be another like him.

Oh my goodness, I am so very sad. Dr. Lazar did my back surgery in 06 and just recently started having back pain. I got on line to find his number only to learn about this tragic event ... I am deeply saddened by this. He was the ONLY ONE WHO I TRUSTED !!! My heart goes out to his wife and kids. I am so sad, he was an amazing surgen , he saved me from total loss of my legs and a great deal of pain. You will be deeply missed. You were an amazing Doc. and we are all greatful to you and your love for helping your clients. Love and prayers to your family
Ruth ( Grand County )

I was Dr. Lazar's patient since 1998. The back surgery he performed on me saved me from great pain and suffering, and I am thankful as long as I live. He was the greatest surgeon and the most caring doctor I have ever met. Thank you so very much, Dr. Lazar, for everything.

I was informed a few weeks ago. I had fallen out of touch for too many years and recently learned about his practice in Springs.
So Rich.. you never got back to my on my question. Does Niagara have falls?
So long pal.

Two years ago Dr. Lazar accomplished the amazing surgery on my back. I miss being able to tell Dr. Lazar annually what a difference he made in my life. So here I am Doc, job well done! We miss you!

I just heard of the tragic passing. With love, Barbara Krause

I was Dr. Lazar's last surgery patient before his skiing trip. I am so thankful to know him and will always miss his skill, humor, and the joy that followed him everywhere.

I will be forever grateful to Dr. Lazar for his fine surgery that prevented me from being disabled. My sympathies go out to his family, friends and fellow patients.

I just found out yesterday about Dr. Lazar's passing and was greatly upset. He was my surgeon since 2006 and will be missed. My condolences to the family!

Lazzie was one of a kind and I feel truly blessed that I was able to share time with him through hockey. Lazzie's giftedness was incredible - exceptional academic, talented athlete, devoted friend and one of the funniest, good-natured people I ever met. My sympathies to Richard's family and his many friends.

I was Dr. Lazar's patient for many years. He was loved by me and I trusted him with my care. He was a fine surgeon and man. It was a shock to receive this call from my mom letting me know of his accident. I will miss your smile, expertise and your great mannerism. God Speed
Robin Talbott

I was a Valentine Day 2011 surgery patient and hopefully a future ski buddy of Dr. Lazar. I have also been getting better since the surgery thanks to Dr. Lazar's caring skill. I will miss this remarkable man! My deepest sympathies and prayers go to the Lazar family and to all who loved him.
Sincerely,
Joe Schultes

The "Lazar Beam"...best hockey player to come out of Phoenix in the 70's...great smile...huge heart!

I will miss you my defense partner

I can not tell you just how much this man has made an impression on me. Dr. Lazar pretty much saved me as I was almost paralized. After my surgery, and finally being able to feel my hands again, I have been getting better everyday. He was an amazing man and I will never forget him. My thoughts and prayers go to all of his family. What an incredible man! He will be missed.

Sincerely,
Pam Higgins

Dr. Lazar was an caring, wonderful individual. He performed a fusion on my neck after a car accident, and has been beneficial in my care fore the last 10 years. I know he loved his family more than anything, his surgical practice a close second. I personally will miss him greatly, as will all his patients but mostly his beloved family. Thenk you for sharing him with those in need of his surgical expertise. I, as well as SO many others will miss his talents and his special smile.
Hugs,
Laurie Langley

My husband and I arrived at the mountain the day after the accident happened. It was a terrible, terrible tragedy for all involved. Our deepest sympathies and prayers go to the Lazar family and to all who loved him.

Jenn, Glen, Gordy, and Drew, I am truly sad to hear of Rich's passing. I haven't seen Rich in a while, but every time I had the pleasure of running into him, he always had that great smile and was always eager to share in the moment. Stay strong in this tough time. You all are in my prayers.

Dr. Lazar was the greatest and my heart goes out to his family. I would like to say he was the best surgeon and doctor anyone could have. He did two back surgeries on me and I have to say, I needed these surgeries for 10 yrs prior to seeing Dr. Lazar. I knew the first moment I spoke to him he was the one I could trust and know it would be done right. He was a God send and I will never forget him and what he did for me.

Having had the privilege of Dr. Lazar’s medical attention as well as close association with some of his family members, his passing leaves an incredible void.
Our sincerest and most heart felt sympathies
John and Peggy Weidner

My brother Dennis played hockey with Richard in high school, I haven't seen richard since then,I remember him coming over to our house and he had this wonderful great laugh. Richard was also very good to his mother ruth. yes he will be greatly missed.our prayers go out to his mom ruth and his wife and sons... nancy sorenson and mother elizabeth segal of phoenix,az

I worked as a volunteer at Penrose Main in the Surgery Waiting area. Dr. Lazar was often there checking in after a surgery with family and friends of his patients. I never knew a more compassionate and professional doctor. He aways had the time to thank me for my service and ask me how my day was going. What a kind and generous man! He will be greatly missed!

I am at a loss on how to express the sadness that continues to come over me when I think about Rich not sharing his zest for life with the world. I hear his wonderful laugh and see his beautiful smile in my mind.

May his name be a blessed memory.

I send my heartfelt sympathies to Ruth, Jen and the boys.

Claudia Oreck-Teplitsky

Our prayers go out to Dr. Lazar's family. He was a wonderful surgeon and person. His surgical capability eliminated several years of constant back pain. He will be greatly missed.

Dr. Lazar performed surgery on both myself and my husband within 5 years. Dr. Lazar was a wonderful person and an excellent Dr. We had recommended Dr. Lazar to our family and friends for their issues. They would laugh because we would comment how Dr. Lazar's name was on our speed dial on our phones. Now the heavens above need him to fix their angels broken wings. We will miss him and condolences to his family.

I was so sorry to hear of Dr. Lazar's passing. I am sure he will be greatly missed by his family and associates. May he rest in peace Barbara Fonk

I had the privalage of working for Dr. lazar at CSOG. He was a wonderful and very kind hearted man and will be greatly missed.

Dr.Lazar performed several surgeries on my back in the past 11 years and I will always be grateful to him for helping me to walk again. He was an excellent surgeon and a better person. He will be greatly missed. My prayers go out to his family and office staff.

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Dr. Lazar performed my scoliosis surgery back in 2001. I'm very sad to hear about his passing. He was a wonderful doctor and did an excellent job on my back surgery. He was so kind to both me and my mom. He will be missed and remembered.

I will miss dr lazar greatly,I worked for him as well was a friend. My sympathy goes out to his family. I will miss his smile and his kindness!

I Haven't Seen Or Spoke To Richard since High School ( West ) But Reading About The Type Of Person He Was Does Not
Surprise Me I was Not apart Of the " In Crowd " But He Made You feel Accepted Just By The Way He Addressed You.
" God Bless His Soul "

Dr. Lazar was my surgeon 6 years ago. I'll always remember his friendly manner and his kindness which also translated to his staff. My sympathies to the family during this time of loss.

We are so sorry for the loss of a great surgeon and dear man. I worked with Dr. Lazar at Penrose Hospital since he came to the Springs and had the most respect and admiration for him. Not only was he a great doctor but a wonderful man to his patients and to the nurses. A pleasure to work with. He will be dearly missed. Renee Kehr

I am still wearing a neck brace as I write, and it is hard to believe that the wonderful, compassionate and gifted surgeon who performed the surgery I so urgently needed 6 weeks ago is not with us any more. My husband and I chose Dr. Lazar not only for his amazing accomplishments, but for his love of life which matched my own. He was not afraid to know me as his patient. I will never forget his comforting words which gave me hope that I would get my life back and we will miss him. We are thinking of his co-workers, friends and family and we share in your loss.

Dr. Lazar was my surgeon three years ago and I always remember his friendly manner, willingness to instruct, and genuine ability to make one feel like they were the only patient he had in midst of a full schedule. Blessings to his family and take good care.

Dr. Lazar recently had done my back surgery. He was the best surgeon, and the most kind, gentle DR. I have ever seen. I had a fallow up appt with him next week. I don't think there is anyone who could do a better job. I am sorry for your loss.

All our sympathy and prayers to you and your family.
-- The Berkhoff Family

Dr. Lazar gave back my creer when I thought it was over due to a back injury. He gave me hope and then performed his magic. I will be forever grateful for his skill and his caring way. Thanks Dr. Lazar.

Rich, Kevin McCabe, Jeff Hanger and I were constantly together during their years at West High in Phoenix. We played hockey every night of the week, sat around gabbing until all hours, attended Roadrunner hockey games, and terrorized each other's families. It is a time I will always treasure, and my memories are enhanced in knowing that Rich was so successful in his family and career. He will be missed but never forgotten.

A very kind, gentle soul....we are so saddened..Kelly and Dan Montano

Rich was a great friend, as you can see he touch everyone that he came in touch with, he was very funny I’m talking funny, we had some great laughs from High School to late night Mexico trips to New York to just a few years ago Fly fishing Lee’s Ferry with Larry Lee, Ben Oreck, Jeff Owens, as we plan are next Trip, Rich will be remembered an missed tremendously (metal down Rich).
Ruth, Jenn & the Boys I’m so sorry for your loss it was much to soon he will be missed, Rest in Peace Rich.

Sending Blessings, Bob & Theresa Wisniewski

I came to know Dr. Lazar in 1999 when he did surgery on me that took me from crawling on my hands and knees to walking again. He was truly a blessing to me, thank-you Dr. Lazar, you will be missed, but never forgotton! My sincere condolences to his wife, sons, family and friends!

Richard was the year ahead of me in high school. He was larger than life...he played hockey (a really cool thing in the desert) and he was smart enough to be in the AP classes. He didn't know me but it was hard for anyone else to not be aware of him. I lost my dad a couple of years after he lost his and he's come to mind throughout the intervening years. He left his mark. My condolences to his family. I am very sad for your loss.

Our condolences & prayers go out to his family and his office staff. He was a great doc and a good friend who had the best bedside manner one could expect from a doctor. We certainly will miss him. God Bless him, his family, and May He Rest in Peace.

My deepest sympathy to all of Rich's family and friends.

His abundant love for all of you could be measured by the laughter and joy he shared while telling your stories

May his memory be for a blessing

Ruth,Jen,Gordy,Glen,Drew,
Rich's untimely departure leaves us with lasting sorrow, one can only hope the memory of his spirit and laughter last a little longer.
I would like to think he is already charting all the primo spots and spectacular routes in the great wonderland on the other side.
We shared a lot of good times over the years and his AZ tribe will miss him beyond measure

"Richie" was a great guy; I've thought of him so fondly over the years. My deepest sympathies to his loved ones. If I've missed him after not seeing him for 30 years, I can only imagine the grief from those closest to him. I am so sorry for your loss.

My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Lazars family and friends. He was one of the best doctors that i have ever had. He really listened and cared about his patients. Thank you Dr. Lazar!! You are sadly missed by us all.. God Bless-

So soryy for this loss, Richard was always such a positive man. All my best to his family. Sarah McCampbell

Dr. Lazar fixed my back when I was only 16, that was 11 years ago and he still knew who I was, what my case looked like and how much work we had done together to this day. I'm so grateful for all that he did for me and my health. He was a caring, kind, funny man and it is sad to see him go. My thoughts are with you Jen and family. Know that he did good things for many people.

Richard was larger than life....knew him through mutual friends since grade school. I was so impressed with the love of life Richard had...and that awesome smile that would light up a room. My deepest sympathies to the family & dear friends he leaves behind....It always hurts to lose a loved one, but maybe there is "some" joy knowing that he was doing something he loved when he passed. To Richard's wife & kids: Please know that although it's been years since I've seen Richard, he made an indelible imprint on my heart...THAT is the type of man he was...you meet him & you never forget how wonderful he was. R.I.P Richard...

Our prayers are with Dr. Lazar's family and friends. He was a great doctor and I pray that his love of life and the love he showed his patients will be passed on by all that knew him. Let his goodness live on through all of us. May his family find comfort in God' love.

Dr. Lazar will be missed by many. I was a patient of his and whenever I mention his name, almost always people know him or know of him. He was easy to talk to as a doctor and always listened. He had a bright smile that was comforting. He was known as "the best". My condolences to his family, to Beth and Ryan and the staff at the Spine Center.

As a patient of Dr Lazers, I felt very comfortable with his handling of my case. Dr Lazar will be missed by the entire community. what a great example he made for all of us.
I was currently pending surgery in April with Dr Lazar again.

I had the priviledge of playing hockey with "Lazie" at the University of Illinois. I was a freshman and Rich was a senior and captain of the team. He was a big presence and great leader back then - something he obviously never lost over the years. It's been 3 decades but I've never met an individual with more passion for life since. Anyone that new him then was not surprised by his professional success, family commitment and efforts to give back. My heart goes out to Jennifer, their 3 sons and family. Rich was definitely 1 in a million and will be deeply missed by many.

He is at peace and we are left to mourn his passing. God Bless you "Lefty" and ALL you gave to your fellow man.
Arms of Love surround you and your boys Jen.

Thoughts and Prayers to your wife and sons, to other family members and close friends, to the office staff and all your patients. You helped me to walk again and relieved my husband from pain. We are forever thankful to have had you as our doctor. We already miss you and will always remember what a very special soul God allowed into our lives.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Jennifer and family and also with my Aunt Ruth. May God comfort you in this time of sorrow. Mark and Robyn Mortensen

My prayers to the family of Dr. Lazar. Dr. Lazar gave me my life back and I will forever be grateful. What a wonderful man and a great loss to those who knew him and were healed by him.

My heartfelt condolences to Dr. Lazar's family, friends and colleagues. What a tragic loss for our community as well. He treated his patients with the care of a friend. I am walking today because of his gifted surgical abilities. He created great memories for so many people. He will live on in all of us that he touched with his personality and talent.

Such sad news to hear of Dr. Lazar's passing. He was an amazing doctor and he genuinely cared for his patients. My husband has a better quality of life because of him. Our prayers are with his family, friends and co-workers. Rest in peace. The Reis family

As I underwent spine surgery 4 years ago, I was 'terrified" to say the least. Dr Lazar subsided any fears I may have had with his love for his patients and the excellent care he provided. He was so much more than a surgeon...you could sense that being in his presence. I am eternally grateful for God allowing our paths to cross and for entrusting him with my medical needs. How very tragic and such an incredible loss for all who knew and loved this great man. To the family, may the blessings of God continually surround you now and forever...Ryan, be encouraged!!!

Although I only knew Dr. Lazar for a short period of time, he impacted my life and I will be forever greatful. Not one, but two back surgeries he performed on me bringing healing, not only to myself, but it's seemed like everywhere I went someone knew him and his gift as a surgeon. They would say things like, "please tell Dr. Lazar I said I'm doing great!"

Dr Lazar, you had style! you were debonair! you were a gift from God! Thank you Doctor Lazar, for your passion, your gift as a surgeon, and most of all your warm personality and smile. Thank you for treating me; I will never forget you!

God Bless the family, and friends, I pray strength and peace to you all. Sincerely, Valerie Hernandez (former patient) and family,

Deepest sympathies to Dr.Lazar's family and his extended family at CSOG. He was a caring and compassionate man and always gave his fullest attention to his patients. I will miss him terribly as he saved my life twice which is a debt I can never re-pay. The world needs more people like him and he will never be replaced and will be forever missed.

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

My prayers and heartfelt sympathy to Dr. Lazars family, Jen and boys im so sorry. Rich was an amazing man,surgeon, and friend. His unexpected passing leaves a big hole in many lives. Life will never be the same. God bless you Dr. Lazar.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Dr. Lazar will be greatly missed. He was the best spine surgeon, kind, very profession, caring. Condolences to his family and staff.
A very sad day.

L.Santy

Richard was a dear friend from High School in Phoenix, AZ. He was loved and admired by all his many friends. We had wonderful times together growing into adults. He will live forever in our hearts. We send our love and prayers to Jennifer and the boys.

Our sincere condolences to Jennifer and the boys. Words are useless tools at a time like this and only memories serve to help heal. Rose and I have fabulous memories of the early 70's when all our son's (Larry Chavez is our son) friends(Bennett, Rich, Didio, Lee, Owens, etc.) would come to our house on Granada Road especially during the holidays. Rose and I remember the wonderful youthful laughter that eminated from our dining room table as the boys told stories. Rich was a wonderful addition to our extended family. Our best to your family.

I heard about Dr. Lazar's passing from my Mom (Thora Miolla) who did his transcription. What a terribel loss to the community and to CSOG. My deepest Condolences to his family and know that he is at rest now with the angels looking down on us all.

Cheri Burchfield-Bass (Thora's Daughter)

It was a privilege and honor to know and work with Dr. Lazar. In the OR he was always very professional and kind. He was a very talented surgeon and his demeanor was a constant quiet, calmness. Anyone who had the pleasure of meeting him came away with a true respect for Dr. Lazar. While out in the community, my husband and I had the pleasure of being introduced by Dr. Lazar to his family and it was clear - family is very important. There are many heavy hearts within the OR family.

Our prayers to the family of Dr. Lazar. We will miss him dearly.

We nurses at Penrose want to offer our condolences to the Lazar family. We appreciated and respected Dr. Lazar so much. He will be missed.
Linda Golden

Words cannot express how much Rich will be missed. He was dearly loved and highly respected by patients and medical staff alike. Our deepest condolences go out to his family.

My sincere condolences to Dr. Lazar's family and colleagues at CSOG. He was an incredible surgeon and wonderful man. He will be greatly missed.
Mike Maloney

Dr. Lazar was the best! I put my life in his hands and he changed my life forever. Everyday for the rest of my life he will remain in my thoughts and prayers. What a tragic loss. My sincere condolences to his family, PA Ryan and Nurse Beth. It will never be the same without him! God bless.

Dr. Lazar was a gifted surgeon and wonderful man. He was so kind and caring. He will be greatly missed.

He was the nicest surgeon to work with. He never got angry. He was always calm and kind to everyone. He was an amazing surgeon and wonderful person. He will be greatly missed. Marilynn Tabor R.N. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Our Prayers are with the family, and the family at CSOG. He was an amazing person and wonderful man. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

Our Prayes are with the family. He was an Amazing man and wonderful person. He will be greatly missed.

Our sincere condolences to the Lazar family , patients and friends who all share in this tragic loss. Dr Lazar will be greatly missed by many