Stevie LaRocca (Peterson)

Stevie LaRocca (Peterson)

Stevie passed peacefully at his home in Newark, Delaware on October 23, 2020 in the arms of his wife, Wendy Logan.

He is also survived by his sister, Lyn Marshall of Bear, Delaware and his stepson, Kieran Hawkins of New Castle, Delaware. He was predeceased by his father Henry Peterson and his mother Eleanore Peterson. He had a great love for his family.

At his request, no service will be held.

Born in Wilmington, Delaware in 1955, he grew up in Newark most of his life. He was an extremely gifted and talented musician. His dedication to the blues led him to share the stage with legends like B.B. King and Buddy Guy (two major influences in his music) as well as Koko Taylor, Delbert McClinton, Dr. John, Keb Mo and Kenny Wayne Sheppard. He also toured the U.S. with "old school" greats like Finis Tasby, King Ernest and Lonnie Shields. He was inducted into the Delaware Blues Hall of Fame in 2012.

Stevie released two CDs: His first CD, In Sight, Outta Sight (1995) was licensed by Virgin Records and released in Europe to rave reviews and was invited to Paris, France to play the Chesterfield Cafe on an extended residency, during which time he was featured in the French magazine, Guitar and Bass, His second CD, Living In the New was independently released in 2003.

A fixture on the local music scene for many years, Stevie played lead guitar with Pyramid, Risqué, Stone Groove, the Witchdoctors and others. He brought so much joy to people through his music and his friendship; his infectious smile and great sense of humor lit up the room. His warm and welcoming spirit invited everyone to be a friend. The number of people he touched is innumerable.

Stevie would not want us to focus on our loss but to keep our fondest memories of him in our hearts. We were blessed to share all the years we had with him. No words are big enough to encompass how much he will be missed.

Please see below to make a donation to the American Cancer Society in Stevie's honor.

*Photo courtesy of Jacki Taylor, SilverPixels Photography

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Stevie LaRocca (Peterson), please visit our floral store.