IL SR1884

William J. "Bill" Laskey of Crystal Lake passed away on June 8, 2018, and the Illinois Senate expresses condolences to his family and friends.

Laskey was born October 3, 1922, worked as a professional jazz saxophonist while in high school, and served as a radio operator in India during World War II.

He earned degrees in clarinet performance and music education from Chicago Conservatory of Music, Roosevelt University, and University of Illinois, then taught band at Rossville and Crystal Lake Central High School until retiring in 1980.

Under his leadership, the Crystal Lake marching band program expanded significantly in the 1970s, with the Heraldry Guard winning numerous competitions; the Crystal Lake Strikers drumline later established the William Laskey scholarship for percussion students.

After retirement, Laskey pursued photography, golf, travel, and earned his pilot license at age 79; he continued conducting musicals at Woodstock Opera House and recording jazz saxophone CDs.