Christopher George Azar

Christopher George Azar February 1,1963 - June 23, 2023 Christopher George Azar passed away on Friday, June 23, 2023, at the age of 60, in Bar Harbor, Maine. Chris was the beloved husband of Julie Trausch-Azar (nee Sigmund) and the cherished father of Madelaine Azar (Henry Beggs), Chad Trausch (Stephanie Hoo), and Scott Trausch (Caroline Willis). He was the much-loved son of Emily Sabah-Maren of Gainesville, FL; treasured brother of Leila Neel (Jack) of Gainesville, FL, and Cathy Azar (Jana Leal) of Tucson, AZ. He was preceded in death by his father, George E. Azar. Chris was also a dear son-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and friend. Chris was raised in Brooklyn, NY, and attended Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan. He obtained a B.A. in Biology from Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, and went on to receive his PhD in Molecular Genetics from Washington University in St. Louis. His scientific career included research in both industry and academia, but his years as a science teacher at Gateway STEM High School and Parkway West High School in St. Louis, Missouri brought him the greatest joy. He was a lifelong learner and teacher. Chris’ love for his family, friends, and the New York Yankees was unrivaled. Chris and Julie were inseparable, bound by a mutual love and respect. They built a wonderful life together and raised three children who made him incredibly proud. Chris enjoyed relaxing summers at the family home in Bar Harbor, Maine, and boating at Lake of the Ozarks in the spring and fall. A perfect day for Chris was a hike in Acadia National Park or a boat ride on the lake, a win for the Yankees, and an evening filled with great food and drink, family, and friends. Those who knew Chris will always remember him for his warm-heartedness, intelligence, and endless patience. He always saw the best in people, and he will be dearly missed. Visitation at Ortmann-Stipanovich Funeral Home, 12444 Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Service at 12:00 p.m. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory (mdibl.org) or Friends of Acadia (friendsofacadia.org).

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Christopher George Azar

February 1, 1963 - June 23, 2023