(RNN) - Charles Lazarus, the founder of Toys R Us, has died just a week after the company announced it was closing all of its North American stores.
Lazarus was 94. He continued to run the company as CEO until 1994.
Toys R Us told employees last week it was shuttering operations across North America, including Babies R Us stores. It also announced it was closing its U.K. stores.
“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,” the company said in a statement. “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 toy chain was in business for 70 years. About 33,000 employees will lose their jobs.
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