Anthony R. Lawless

Anthony "Tony" R. Lawless, age 91, of Peoria, passed away at 3:44 AM on Friday, August 8, 2025 at Apostolic Christian Skylines.

Born February 18, 1934, in Peoria, to James and Kathryn (Philipp) Lawless. On February 13, 1960 he married Carolyn A. Frasco and together they cherished 57 years until her passing on April 17, 2017.

Surviving are their three children; Kevin (Angie) of St. Charles, MO., Laurie (Randy) Robley of Peoria, and Tim (Jane) of Crystal Lake, six grandchildren; Eric (Nicole) Roberts, Shannon (Dustin) Nichols, Michelle (Jeremy) Hayes, Kelli (Jordan) Anderson, Stephen (Abbey) Lawless and Molly Lawless; seven great-grandchildren; and one brother James (Mary) Lawless of Washington. His parents and sisters, Mary Carrigan and Teresa Mahoney preceded him in death.

Tony grew up on the south side of Peoria attending St. Pat's Grade School. He graduated from Spalding Institute in 1952. After high school he began his apprenticeship with Plumber's Local # 63 where he proudly worked until his retirement in 1994. He served in the US Navy from 1956 to 1957, serving in the Seabee's Construction Force helping rebuild the island of Guam after WWII.

As a resident of Bartonville, IL since 1964, Tony was actively involved in the community. He was a member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church since 1970 serving as an usher, the men's club, and numerous other organized church activities. In addition, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Tony was very easy going and always willing and able to help friends and family in need. He was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinal, Green Bay Packer, and Bradley Braves fan and enjoyed sharing his love of sports with everyone in his presence. He enjoyed gardening, golf, bike riding and attending many of his grandchildren's school and sporting activities.

As the patriarch of the family, he leaves behind a great legacy. He touched everyone of us with his work ethic, storytelling and great sense of humor with his infectious "chuckle".

We are forever grateful for the passionate care he received from the staff at Serenity Assisted Living, Apostolilc Christian Skylines, and Vitas Hospice.

Visitation will be held at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Bartonville on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 from 9:00-10:30 am, followed by mass. Father Charles Klamut will officiate, and entombment will follow in Resurrection Mausoleum in Peoria.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials in Anthony's memory may be made to St. Jude’s Midwest Affiliate in honor of his granddaughter Michelle Hayes.

Friends and family are encouraged to log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos, and share Tony's memorial page via social media. Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)