WESTLAKE, Ohio (WJW) – A friendly smile and wave will no longer be present at the corner of Hilliard Boulevard and Dover Center Road.

Joe Lazar, 83, passed away on Oct. 3, 2025, several weeks after he was hit by a car in the crosswalk where he had served since 2019.

“Kids loved him. He treated everybody well,” said Westlake Police Captain Jerry Vogel. “He was always friendly with a wave to passing motorists and really just wanted to give back.”

Vogel described Lazar as a selfless person who loved to serve others and keep kids safe — a man so humble, his photo wasn’t readily available.

But Vogel said Westlake residents knew Lazar well.

“Showing up every single day, whether it’s raining or sunny or snowing — all winter — he would be out there every day,” Vogel said.

On Sept. 11, Lazar

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