Benjamin Wenlong Lay

On March 21, 2016, Benjamin “Benny” Wenlong Lay, son of Ann Ellingson and Thomas Lay, passed away at the age of two in Chicago, IL. Benny was born on December 15, 2013 in Hinsdale, IL.  From his first days in this world Benny’s bright spirit and sweet soul were evident. He loved nature and being outside, finding peace and calm from watching the leaves blow in the wind and clouds pass through the sky. He spent many happy days exploring the soil, trees, and rocks and loved trips to the beach to play in the surf and sand. As he grew, he also developed a passion for animals. He especially loved farm animals, regularly visiting the chickens, horses, and pigs at Wagner Farms, and the backyard birds and squirrels whose antics he delighted in as they came to his birdfeeder and dashed about the yard. He adored his cats Starbuck and Paula and dog Quincy, and his cadre of stuffed animal friends included Peter Rabbit, Fox in Sox, and Paddington Bear.  Benny also had a love of learning, remarkable intelligence, and vast curiosity that were present each and every day. He was so fond of books and lovingly read his favorites until the pages were worn and smudged with love. Some of these included "Goodnight Goodnight Construction Site", "Teeth Are not for Biting", "Happy Birthday Little Pookie", and the interactive photo books "Cat" and "Dog". A born problem-solver, he loved trucks, tools, and building things, and was a regular “supervisor” of neighborhood construction, landscaping, and garbage crews. His diggers, fire trucks, dump trucks, and big rigs were cherished in his playroom.  Music brought Benny great happiness. He had a variety of instruments and musical toys and so enjoyed listening to his friends Rosie and Maddy play piano and violin. Around the house, he loved having his mom sing to him and play music, especially his favorite artist, Kacey Musgraves, and singing along to his very favorite song, “Late to the Party”.  Above all, Benny had an incredible ability to connect with others and made many friends of all ages during his life. His sweet smile and twinkling eyes couldn’t help but bring joy to others. One of the things that was most unique about Benny was his nurturing spirit. He especially loved babies and took kind and gentle care of his dolls.  Benny touched the lives of so many, and those who had the privilege of knowing him will carry him always in their hearts.

A celebration of life will be held at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 806 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL on Wednesday, March 23 at 10:30am. A reception/shiva will follow in Oldershaw Social Hall. Church parking lot is located behind the church, accessed by Madison Street.  Memorial donations will be gathered at the service and will given in Benny’s name to Lake County Forest Preserves, a collection of parks he loved dearly. The family would like to thank the hospital and spiritual care staff at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for their care and support.

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