Lance "Joe Rockerfella" Kidwell

Lance passed away on July 2, 2025 after a brief and heartbreakingly aggressive battle with stage 4 stomach cancer. He was diagnosed in early June, and despite the shock and speed of his illness, he faced it with extraordinary strength, grace, and heart - right up until his very last breath. Lance was born on July 14th, 1980 at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank California, and from the very beginning, his life was full of energy, music, and a deep, abiding kindness. He was known for his larger-than-life personality, his love of music, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. A natural performer, he earned the nickname “Joe Rockerfella” during his time playing in a band, where his passion and presence lit up every stage he stepped on. His sense of humor and unique way of seeing the world showed up early in life. As a child, his dad once found him sitting on the floor after pulling the wings off a fly. Concerned, Mike asked Lance what he was doing. He replied, completely sincere: “The fly was bothering me, but I didn’t want to hurt him. So I pulled his wings off so we could just hang out on the floor together.” That mix of mischief and compassion stuck with him for life - and those who knew him wouldn’t be surprised one bit. Lance is survived by his loving family: his mother, Karen Saldana; his father, Mike Kidwell and his wife Jeannette; his brothers Robert Kidwell (and wife Erica N), Steven Kidwell (and wife Erica L), Chris Kidwell, and Josh Trujillo (and wife Morgan); his nieces and nephews Ethan, Jaylene, David, and Beau; and his beloved cat, Gibson Martini - who was never far from his side. A viewing will be held on Friday, July 18 from 12:00 - 3:00 pm at Utter Mc Kinley Mortuary. Rather than a traditional service, the family will be holding a Celebration of Life in his honor - because that’s what Lance would have wanted: music, laughter, and stories shared by those who knew and loved him. In true Lance fashion, it will be a jam session. Everyone is encouraged to bring an instrument and join in the music. The celebration will be held Saturday, July 12th from 5:00 - 9:00 pm. Please see the family for additional information. Lance’s warmth, courage, and one-of-a-kind spark will be deeply missed by everyone fortunate enough to have known him - and his memory will live on in every story, every song, and every heart he touched.

Tributes

Lance "Joe Rockerfella" Kidwell

July 14, 1980 - July 2, 2025