Michael Jerome Lillyquist

June 21, 1943 - January 7, 2018

Michael passed away peacefully on Sunday morning at his home in Ajo, Arizona, of complications from cancer. He was 74.

He was born in Rochester, New York and was preceded in death by his parents, Arlene (LaRue) Lillyquist-Fox and Jerome David Lillyquist of Palmyra, New York; his eldest son, Michael David Lillyquist of Canandaigua, New York, who sadly passed away last October; and his beloved aunt, June Lillyquist of Jamestown, New York.

Michael was a Graduate of Palmyra-Macedon Central School, where in the late 50s, he was lead guitarist and arranger for the rock and roll band, The Silvertones, one of the earliest rock bands in the region. After high school, he studied at Bowling Green State University and the University of Arizona, where he received a PhD in psychology.

He taught at the University of Wisconsin - Platteville and was the author of several well-received books, including a criminology textbook and a book on sunlight and health, which resulted in several national radio interviews and an appearance on NBC's Today Show. He left the University of Wisconsin to pursue writing full-time in the warmer climes of Tucson, Arizona, Cloverdale, California and Ajo, Arizona.

He is survived by his son, Timothy Jerome Lillyquist (Kellie)of Bayfield, Colorado; two grandchildren, Celina and Jessie Lillyquist of Canandaigua, New York; his brother, Timothy David Lillyquist of Cloverdale, California; his step-brother, Ned Fox (Janet) of Westfield, New York; and his step-sister, Gail (Fox) Black and her husband (and Mike's life-long friend), Bob Black of Fairport, New York.

It was Mike's wish to be cremated, with his cremated remains scattered at several of his favorite places in California, Arizona and New York State. Those wishing to, may donate in his name to National Public Radio. There are no public services planned.