Dr. Lawrence Singer, a popular coach for McLean Youth Soccer and founder of the DC Smiles Holistic Cosmetic Dentistry practice, died unexpectedly April 10 at the age of 50.

A survivor of childhood cancer, Singer continued to battle medical complications throughout his life.

“He fought hard for most of his life to live another day,” said his wife Tonya in announcing Singer’s death. “Lawrence loved life more than anything. He often would say, ‘Any day you open your eyes is a good day.’”

Born Oct. 31, 1968, Singer earned a bachelor of science in Human Development from Vanderbilt University and a doctor of medical dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He founded DC Smiles in 1995, which included locations in Alexandria and Washington DC.

At the time of his death, Singer held the title of Assistant Clinical Professor of Surgery at the George Washington University Hospital. His work there included treating facial trauma patients, performing reconstruction surgery on cancer patients and helping other medically compromised patients.

As news of Singer’s death spread, tributes poured in on social media.

“Coach. One word. That’s how we know him,” McLean resident Due Tran said of Singer, who was also known as Laz among his friends. “He truly inspired and changed more girls in any one season than many people do in a lifetime. He coached the all-star team but he was our star. He never gave up. Season after season, he was determined to bring home a trophy and we did! It didn’t matter how bad we were losing, Coach hoped his way to win and often did. That’s how Coach Laz lived and that’s how he will always continue to live in each of the athletes that he touched.”

In addition to his practice, Singer was an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, instructing doctoral candidates in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Since 2000, he was the official cosmetic dentist for the Washington Redskins cheerleaders.

“Laz was such a brave man,” said Steven Olmos. “Struggling with his health and dedicated to helping others. Such an intelligent person. The world has lost one of the great ones.”

Survivors include his wife Tonya, son Maximillian, 13, and daughter Chloe, 11.

A visitation and Celebration of Life service was held April 27 at Cunningham Turch Funeral Home in Alexandria.

“Coach Singer will be greatly missed by the players and parents in McLean,” said Louise Waxler. “We thank him for giving so much to our youngsters. May he rest in peace.”