Yupa Lazzaro Obituary

Yupa Lazzaro, 69, of Manitou Springs, Colorado was a successful entrepreneur for over 30 years. She is survived by her daughter, Sue, and her grandson, Nikki, who reside in Colorado Springs. Yupa was born in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. As a young girl, she suffered through the Japanese occupation of her country during World War II. At great personal risk, Yupa smuggled food and medicine to British prisoners-of-war who were forced to build one of the railway bridges over the Kwai River. Her fortitude and courage in those days became a hallmark of her character. Yupa eventually emigrated to the United States after marrying Harold Lazzaro, an Army Master Sergeant stationed in Thailand. When Harold retired, they settled in Manitou Springs and started several business ventures. After Harold passed away in 1991, Yupa continued her business career. She owned Siam Enterprises, an import firm, and operated her principal store, Corners of the World, on Manitou Avenue for over 30 years. To Yupa, America was a place where a lady, born into unfavorable circumstance 12,000 miles from our shores, could emigrate, earn citizenship, work with skill and determination, and become a successful business owner. Her passing is a great loss to America, Manitou Springs, her family and friends, and to anyone who cherishes the benefits derived from fulfillment of the American dream. Honoring Yupa's wishes, her body will be cremated through arrangements with Spartan Cremation Services in Colorado Springs. Her ashes will then be consigned at her husband's gravesite in Fort Logan National Cemetery.