Anthony Thomas Laye

Anthony (Tony) Thomas Laye, 63, of Cherry Valley, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday, April 12, 2025. Born on August 27, 1961, in Beloit, Wisconsin, he was the beloved son of JoAnne O’Hare Laye.   Anthony married the love of his life, Lori A. Schumaker on March 17, 1984, in Belvidere, IL. He is loved and will be missed by his beloved wife of 41 years, Lori Laye; loving children, Kenneth (Jenifer) Moore, Thomas (Alyssa) Laye, Beckie (Tyson) Dickerson; grandchildren, Celia Moore, Jude Laye, Remi Laye, Henry Dickerson, Quinn Dickerson; brother, Dennis (Sarah) Laye; cherished Pug, Bandit.

Tony was known for his remarkable sense of humor, willingly sacrificing himself as a butt of a joke for a good laugh. An avid fisherman and amateur magician, it was not uncommon to have Tony disappear in a crowded group of thousands of people and reappear without notice.

His career was marked by dedication and resilience, having worked for Estwing Manufacturing for 39 years, 35 of which was operating a drop forge, a challenging job that many avoided or quit after just a few months.  Prior to working at Estwing, Tony served our country in the United States Army, serving overseas in Germany for two years.

A passionate motocross enthusiast and motorcycle rider, Tony cherished his trips to the Sturgis bike rally with his wife, Lori, where he earned the nickname Two Fumes due to constantly riding his bike’s gas tank to reserve. Tony’s interest in motorcycles began at a very young age, racing motocross for many years at Byron Motorsports Park, where it was not uncommon for fence posts to jump right in front of him.

Beyond his love for motocross, Tony was an avid runner and cyclist.  As a member of the Rockford Road Runners, he competed in countless local running races and duathlons, including running the Chicago Marathon with one of his sons in 2011.

Tony's devotion to his wife, Lori Laye, was evident throughout their 41 years of marriage. She supported and joined him as his running partner; a riding buddy; fan; parent; and co-contractor, which often lead to days of deafening silence between the two.  Tony loved their motorcycle rides and day trips to any local winery or brewery and would frequently be seen talking with the brewmaster, somehow arranging for a private tour and tasting.  

Tony exemplified what it meant to be a father.  He was incredibly proud of all of his children’s accomplishments and supported them in all of their chosen endeavors, becoming a private Uber service in the process. He taught them to not take life too seriously and cherish their loved ones, a lesson he attributed to his Aunt and Uncle, Eileen and Richard Croissant.

Tony also loved being a grandfather to his five grandchildren.   Each one had their own special bond and memories of him.  Snuggling, camping trips, soccer games, exchanging crazy socks for birthdays and Christmas, to being a target of the unintentional roasts of a toddler.

Tony's legacy of love, humor, and passion for life will forever be cherished by his family and friends.  

Tony’s Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, May 18th, 12:30 pm- 2:30 pm, at the Verdi Club in Rockford. In honor of Tony, please feel free to wear crazy socks. 

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.belviderefh.com.