Noted choreographer killed by car in Buffalo Grove; ‘He brought together children and adults who shared a love for dance’

A Buffalo Grove man, who was a choreographer and operated a local dance studio, was struck and killed by a car this week, local authorities said.

The Lake County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Roman Mazur, 87. Mazur was hit by a car at around 8 a.m. Monday at the intersection of Larraway Drive and Buffalo Grove Road, the coroner’s office said.

Mazur was pronounced dead at the scene, officials said.

Artistic irdector Roman Mazur, left, dances with a student in a 2001 file photo. Students from the Faubourg Ballet School were rehearsing for a performance of “White Christmas Tale”, a dance which combined Russian and American Christmas traditions. The play was written by Mazur, who was the artistic director for the performance. (Chicago Tribune photo by John Dziekan)

According to social media posts and a GoFundMe page, Mazur was a noted choreographer and operator of the Mazur Dance Studio.

He founded a dance ensemble in his native Ukraine before emigrating to the U.S., according to the GoFundMe post created by a family member. He opened a dance studio in Chicago, and later in Cleveland.

“Roman is remembered as a visionary choreographer and a producer, known for his unique approach to dance, composition, and costume design,” according to the post by his niece, Julia Khrakovsky. “Every move, every breath, and every dance was filled with purpose and passion. He brought together children and adults who shared a love for dance, creating a welcoming space for all to express themselves.”

According to the niece, Mazur was returning from a morning jog when he was hit by the vehicle.

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