Jan. 15, 2007

VILLANOVA, Pa. - Father Bernard Lazor, O.S.A., who served as the men's basketball and football team chaplain for more than a quarter century, died peacefully Sunday morning. He was 82.

Lazor, a native of Mahanoy City, Pa, and 1948 Villanova graduate, served as an associate professor of religious studies at his alma mater from 1971-2006. In addition to his teaching, he was appointed team chaplain for the football team in 1976 and two years later added the same responsibilities in men's basketball. From his vantage point near the end of the Villanova bench, Lazor was a familiar figure to generations of fans on both the gridiron and basketball court. He was a part of the Wildcats' 1985 NCAA basketball championship as well as 1997's undefeated regular season in football.

"Father Lazor did a wonderful job with our football program over the years as the team's chaplain," stated Villanova head football coach Andy Talley. "He was a great inspiration and a great source of motivation for both our staff and players. We will miss him greatly."

"The Villanova basketball family has suffered a great loss with Father Lazor's passing," stated Villanova head men's basketball coach Jay Wright. "Father's passion and love for Villanova and its players and coaches inspired us all. His strong will was a source of strength for our program."

A viewing will be held on Thursday, Jan. 18 at the St. Thomas of Villanova Chapel at 6:00 p.m. A funeral mass will follow at 8:00 p.m.