WESTLAKE, Ohio — October 19, 2025 — On a gray, rain-speckled Sunday afternoon, the corner of Dover Center and Hilliard Boulevard — usually alive with schoolday chatter and the bright whistle of a crossing guard — fell into solemn stillness. Dozens of Westlake residents gathered to honor Joe Lazar, a longtime school crossing guard who was tragically struck and killed by a vehicle while performing his duties.
At precisely 2:15 p.m., uniformed officers of the Westlake Police Department joined students, parents, and community members in a moment of silence at Lazar’s post. A small black booth marked “School Guard” stood as a symbol of his daily watchfulness, now transformed into a memorial adorned with flowers, American flags, and handwritten notes.
A banner hanging above the intersection read “In Memory of Joseph Lazar,” featuring his photo and the insignia of the Westlake Police Department, where he had served as a school crossing guard.
Following brief remarks by police officers and community leaders, a procession of patrol cars, their lights reflecting off the wet pavement, departed westbound along Hilliard Boulevard. The motorcade continued north on Bradley and west on Detroit Road, escorting Lazar symbolically to Busch Funeral Home in Avon for his memorial visitation. The public was encouraged to line the route — and many did, waving flags or standing quietly in respect.
The sound of bagpipes, carried by the damp October air, closed the ceremony as the community paid final tribute to the man who had guided generations of children safely across the street.
Lazar’s family and friends have requested that memorial contributions be made to the Western Cuyahoga FOP Lodge #25, which supports local law enforcement and their families. Donations can be made online at https://unionly.io/o/foplodge25/lodge-25-donations.
Though his post now stands empty, the legacy of Joe Lazar’s care, humor, and quiet heroism will continue to stand guard over Westlake’s children for years to come.