Charles Lazarus Dead - Toys 'R' Us Founder Dies at 94

Toys “R” Us founder Charles Lazarus has sadly passed away at the age of 94, the company confirmed on Thursday (March 22).

The news comes just one week after the company announced that it will be shutting down its U.S. operations.

Charles started the company in 1948 when he was just 25 years old in anticipation of the baby boom, and remained the CEO until 1994.

“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. He visited us in New Jersey just last year, and we will forever be grateful for his positive energy, passion for the customer and love for children everywhere,” the company said in a statement.

Our thoughts are with Charles‘s family and friends at this difficult time.