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MICHAEL LAZARES Obituary

Michael Dixon Lazares Beloved husband and father Michael D. Lazares, 70, passed away on March 21st, 2016 in Arizona after a long battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Heleen, mother LaDonna, children Michelle (Greg), Monica (Mick), and Michael (Shannon), grandsons Devan and Dillon, brothers Danny (Theresa) and Nick, sisters Lonnie (Andrew) and Lynette (Dale), along with many more family members and friends. He is preceded by his father Louie. Michael served two tours in Vietnam as a combat helicopter pilot. He earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, the Purple Heart, and 17 Air Metals. His 28 year career led him to be one of the first CW-5's in the military He spent 30 years in law enforcement, including serving in the Tacoma Police Department where he retired as a detective in the homicide unit. In later life Michael became a published author. He wrote six books on his military and police careers, with all the proceeds being donated to various charities. After retirement, Michael and Heleen moved to Arizona where he continued to write, ride his Harley Davidson, drive his Corvette, walk Moosie, and play golf with his wonderful group of friends. A Military Funeral Honors ceremony will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Fisher House Foundation. He will be loved and missed everyday!

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Mar. 27, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for MICHAEL LAZARES

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Tom Perkins

December 8, 2022

My very late and deep condolences to Heleen and family. I just finished, "...Hello Vietnam". How many times I found myself laughing late at night next to my wife trying to sleep. Oh, but I think we would have got along swimmingly. Two years apart, both in the Army at the same time. Even harder, lived in Tucson from '99 to 2012. Oh, to be able to buy him a beer, maybe two...What a class act. Trying to find his books made me think he might have passed. Does anyone know where his books can be purchased? Gosh. I'm surprised at my emotions.

April 3, 2016

I was so sorry to read that Michael had passed. I have great memories of seeing he and Heleen and kids at Grandma Lazarus' house back in the 70's. I was married to his cousin Greg Strommer and remember they were such a beautiful couple. There children were just adorable. I would think about the whole family quite often with fond memories. Tell Taffy hello for me please and my condolences to your whole family. Sending much love. Jane Graham-Seaton.

Dennis Bailey

April 2, 2016

As you know, I've known Mike since childhood and fondly remember our good times together. I'll miss him. My sincere condolences to Heleen and family.

April 2, 2016

As you know, Mike and I were friend from early childhood, and had some great times together. I will remember them and miss him. My sincere condolences to Heleen and family.

Patty (Wright) Grange

April 2, 2016

We will all miss Michael. He was a loving family man and one of the good guys.
For me, so many fun memories will be 'forever in my heart'. I am thankful I had the chance to spend time with Michael and Heleen recently.
My heartfelt sympathy and God's blessings to Heleen and their family as well as LaDonna and her family.

Randy & Linda Kilian

April 2, 2016

Randy and I send prayers to the Lazares family. Mike is shining above!

Pat O'Malley

March 28, 2016

Our lives are much less fun without Mike.
He will be missed greatly and it may take a few years but I will see him again over a beer sharing stories and laughing our heads off. Deepest regrets to his family and especially Heleen.

Steve Sarandos

March 27, 2016

I am very sorry to hear of Mikes passing. Condolences to the Lazares family...

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