There are many people who simply live life as if only going through the motions of day to day living. Then there are those like Anthony Rooker who fully immerse themselves in every moment, squeezing every last drop of life out of it. He was an avid outdoorsman who was athletic, even rugged to an extent, and someone who could accomplish whatever he put his mind to. Tony was caring towards others and deeply loved those who greatly enriched his life whether in ways great or small. With what would seem to be so many years ahead of him, Tony was abruptly taken from those who loved him - his bright light extinguished much too soon.

Much can be said about the sixties in America. This was the decade

that experienced the explosion of the Barbie doll and the skateboard, the introduction to G.I. Joe, and slot cars that overtook toy trains in popularity. The year 1961 saw the inauguration of the young John F. Kennedy, West Side Story adapted for the silver screen, and Roger Maris hit his 61st home run in the 162nd game of the season, beating Babe Ruth’s 154-game record. It was during this same year that Anthony Rooker’s story began in Martinsville, Indiana, located in the central region of the state. Born on December 17, 1961, Tony was a

large baby - nearly 10 pounds who was welcomed by his parents, William and Judy Rooker. From the moment he was born, Tony and his mother shared that special bond that only a mother and son can, especially since he was her only son. Even from his earliest days, Tony fostered an adventurous spirit and was always interested in the outdoors. He also

developed a lifelong interest in music, playing in the marching band at Ben Davis High School.

After graduating from high school in 1980, Tony continued his education, later earning a degree from Vincennes University, the oldest higher education institution in the state of Indiana. With his degree under his belt, Tony worked at various jobs through the years including for St. Vincent Hospital, for Hugh

Bill in Mooresville, and as a technician at AT&T for 10 years.

Great and exciting changes were in store for Tony when he met and married Lisa Loy. With this union not only did

Tony gain a wife, but three step-sons, Joseph, Nicholas, and Timothy. He had a good relationship with her children that continued after Tony and Lisa were divorced.

There were so many interests that Tony pursued whenever he had free time. His greatest passion was for the outdoors, and he was very athletic and active, too. Tony loved camping, mountain biking, and rock climbing - a rugged sort of man

to his core. He was also very handy with strong skills in carpentry and electrical work, but in reality he could fi x just about anything. It was clear to see that in addition to spending time with the people he loved, Tony greatly enjoyed the companionship of his Jack Russel terrier, Quincie. Later in life, he continued to dabble in music, taking an interest in the guitar.

In so many ways, Anthony Rooker made life better for those around him. He was loyal and loving, generous and thoughtful of others. Those who knew Tony knew that he was fi ercely determined and liked to have things

his own way, yet he was the sort of man who would do anything for

anyone. Tony was smart and was especially good at fi guring out

how to make things work, and he never backed down from a challenge. He was

friendly, outgoing and quite simply, a great guy to know and love.

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A beloved son, devoted brother, and caring step-father, Tony will be deeply missed by those whose lives he touched. His memory will be forever cherished.

Anthony Rooker died on Sunday, October 10, 2010. Tony’s family includes his mother, Judy Staselavage of Florida; father and step-mother, Pastor William and Joyce Rooker of Mooresville; grandmother, Lily Jean Martin of Monrovia;

brother, Charles Randall Rooker; sisters, Reba Renee Rooker, Wilenda Turner, Dawn Blackwell, and Ginger; step sons, Joseph, Nicholas, and Timothy Loy; former spouse, Lisa Loy Rooker of Kokomo. Tony was preceded in death by his step father, Bill Staselavage and grandfather, Clyde “Jack” Martin. Friends and family will gather

on Friday, October 15, 2010, from 3-7 p.m., in the Carlisle & Son Funeral Chapel, Mooresville. The memorial service will begin at 7 p.m. Pastor Mark Wright will offi ciate. Burial will be in West Union Cemetery, Monrovia. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you can leave a favorite memory or photo, sign the online guestbook, or make a memorial contribution to the Nature Conservancy.