James Peter Rocks

James Peter "Pete" Rocks, a lifelong resident of Colorado Springs, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at home on July 30, 2025. His passing has left his family, countless friends, and longtime business associates deeply shocked and saddened.

Pete was born on January 31, 1954, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and moved to Colorado Springs at a young age, where he spent the rest of his life building his home and raising his family in the place he loved. He grew up alongside his brothers, Mike and Jack, sharing in life's milestones and remaining close as they each raised their families in Colorado Springs.

Pete met the love of his life, Marcia Anderson, in Colorado Springs in April 1973. The two married on August 30, 1975, beginning nearly 50 years of marriage marked by devotion, respect, and an unbreakable bond. Marcia was his safe place, and nothing brought Pete more joy than simply being by her side. Together they built a life centered on family, raising their three children-Steven, Brianna, and Katy-with love, support, and the values that shaped who they are today and will carry forward for generations.

Pete was a local business owner and a well-respected member of the plumbing and construction industry in Colorado Springs. He began working for Jolly, the family plumbing business, in 1973, earning his master plumber license and eventually becoming the owner. Founded in 1955, Jolly has been a part of the community for decades, and Pete proudly carried on its tradition as a family-owned business. He took great pride in knowing his son, Steven, and Jacob Schell, who was like a second son to him, would continue the business, carrying forward the work ethic, integrity, and values he built his career on. Pete was equally proud of his employees, valuing their dedication and treating them as part of his extended family.

Pete's love for the mountains and the outdoors was a defining part of his life. He was a true enthusiast of anything with an engine-motorcycles, ATVs, and cars. He had a fondness for fast cars, especially his Ford Mustang, and in recent years developed a passion for Ford Raptors, purchasing his dream truck just a year before his passing. This spring, he attended a Ford Raptor training trip in Utah with his son-in-law Joey, where together they drove test trucks over rugged terrain, jumps, and steep hills-a true once-in-a-lifetime experience that he absolutely loved.

Pete was also a devoted Denver Broncos fan, a loyalty he carried throughout his life. Whether in the stands or at home with family, he never missed a game and celebrated the highs and weathered the lows with equal dedication.

For the last 20 years, Pete's cabin in St. Elmo, Colorado, was his happy place-a sanctuary of peace and connection. While he enjoyed the quiet solitude of being there alone, the times spent with his children and grandchildren were the moments that brought him the greatest joy.

Being "Papa" was the role Pete cherished most. His eight grandchildren-Ashlyn, Ella, Dawson, Jameson, Gracie, Emmy, Braelynn, and Breece-were the light of his life. He never missed a birthday, holiday, or school event, and made each one feel uniquely loved. Whether it was adventures at the cabin, family vacations, or everyday moments, Pete's happiest times were those shared with them.

Pete's love for family extended to those who joined it through marriage. He welcomed his sons-in-law, Joey DeLorme and Bryan Leone, and his future daughter-in-law, Brittany Hartman, with open arms-not as in-laws, but as true family. His guidance, humor, and steadfast support will be remembered and deeply missed by each of them.

Pete will be remembered by all for his generosity, steady presence, and unwavering belief that everyone deserves a second chance. He had a gift for making people feel accepted and valued. He lived simply, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His passing leaves an immeasurable void, but his family finds comfort knowing he is at peace-resting in the mountains he loved so much.

Pete is survived by his wife, Marcia; his children, Steven (fiancée Brittany) Rocks, Brianna (Joey) DeLorme, and Katy (Bryan) Leone; his grandchildren; his brothers, Mike (Debby) Rocks and Jack (Rachel) Rocks and their families; and his extended family, including Jacob Schell, whom he loved as a son. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gary and Barbara Rocks.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, August 27, at 10:00 a.m. at Springs Funeral Services, 3115 E. Platte Ave., Colorado Springs, CO.

In lieu of flower donations can be made to Historic St. Elmo foundation at https://mtyc.co/k7u3pf