Rocha, Steven Michael's Obituary
Steven Michael Rocha, aged 65, of Tampa, Florida, passed away on August 7, 2025.
He was born on September 13, 1959, in Tampa, Florida, to Tony and Lugarda Rocha. He attended Corpus Christi Catholic School, Tampa Catholic, and King High School.
Steve was a man of extraordinary character and commitment. After serving his country with honor in the U.S. Navy — where he traveled the world on a destroyer and made lifelong memories — he dedicated his life to ensuring the safety and well-being of others as a firefighter with the Tampa Fire Department for 25 years. He was a member of the USAR team, Task Force 3, serving on multiple deployments to disaster zones and a proud member of the Tampa Fire Rescue Honor Guard. His bravery and dedication were evident in every call he answered, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and community.
Family was at the heart of Steve’s life. He was a proud and loving father who instilled values of integrity, legacy, and kindness. His greatest joy, however, came from his role as a grandfather to his beloved Raleigh and Rory. Whether sharing stories of his adventures, being at the ballpark, or simply spending time together in laughter, his grandchildren were his pride and joy.
Steve had a special affection for Costa Rica, often reminiscing about its beauty and tranquility. This cherished place held a piece of his heart, and it was where he found peace and reflection in the pura vida lifestyle.
He leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and dedication that will forever be remembered by those who knew him. Steve’s spirit will continue to inspire his family and friends, and the warmth of his love will endure in their hearts.
He is survived by his son, Daniel, and daughter-in-law, Alexa, his two grandchildren, Raleigh and Rory; his older brother, Dale Rocha, wife Becky; and his younger brother, Robert Rocha, wife Maureen.
A visitation will be held at Sunset Memory Gardens on Sunday, August 17, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with services to follow. A celebration of his life will be held at the Tampa Firefighter Museum from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
He will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as his memory lives on in the stories he shared and the lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Tampa Firefighter Museum, honoring Steve’s commitment to service. https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ZCJ52G7GBYSK4/checkout/4EKJVTVRO6VA3YARIWGZGKSD?src=webqr
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