Anthony Lauren Bilges passed away on May 5, 2026, at the age of 63, in the comfort of his home in Minnetonka, Minnesota. He will be remembered as a creative, humorous, and deeply expressive person whose personality and storytelling ability left a lasting impression on those around him.
Anthony graduated from Minneapolis Technical College with a certificate in Cabinetry. He carried a lifelong appreciation for craftsmanship and creativity, often expressing himself through artistic work, music, poetry, and writing. His quick wit and natural storytelling made him someone who could easily bring laughter into any room.
He found joy in life’s simple comforts, often enjoying living off the land, coffee with two sugars, Coca-Cola, ice cream, and listening to classic rock music, especially AC/DC and The Rolling Stones. Music played an important role in his life, and he also enjoyed playing guitar, creating art, watching the news, and listening to the police scanner. More than anything, he valued conversations, shared memories, and time spent connecting with others.
Anthony will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He had a rare ability to make people laugh, think, and feel at ease, and his creativity and personality will continue to live on through the memories shared by family and friends.
He is survived by his siblings Deborah Bilges, Jewel Bilges, Michele Bilges, and Jo Robbins; many nieces and nephews; and his stepfather, Terry Dalager. He was preceded in death by his father, Lauren Bilges; his mother, Carole Dalager (Lorentzen); his daughter, Nicole Schmidt; and his sister, Justine Bilges.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, May 27, at the Section Three Mausoleum at Washburn-McReavy Hillside Cemetery, 2600 19th Ave NE, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Anthony Lauren Bilges will be remembered for his creativity, humor, music, and the way he found meaning in everyday life. His laughter, voice, and artistic spirit remain alive in the memories of those who knew him best.
