Just days after the announcement that Toys R Us would be closing down its US operations, along with significant regions across the planet, the founder of the company Charles Lazarus has passed away.
There have been many sad moments for Toys”R”Us in recent weeks, and none more heartbreaking than today’s news about the passing of our beloved founder, Charles Lazarus. Our thoughts and prayers are with Charles’ family and loved ones.
— ToysRUs (@ToysRUs) March 22, 2018
Charles Lazarus, who founded Toys “R” Us 70 years ago, died Thursday, a week after the company announced it will be forced to shut down its U.S. operations.
Lazarus, 94, no longer held a stake in the chain. He started the company in 1948 when he was 25, anticipating that the post-war baby boom would create demand for baby supplies and toys. He remained CEO until 1994.
“He was the father of the toy business,” said Michael Goldstein, who succeed him as CEO. “He knew the toys and loved the toys and loved the kids who would shop in the stores. His face lit up when he watched kids playing with toys.”
His death was confirmed by the company.
