John Petrocy, who notably served as a keyboardist of several local bands, died on Friday, February 2. He was 74.
An online obituary posted on Dignity Memorial's official website confirmed Petrocy's death, sharing that the late educator and musician died at his home.
John Petrocy Dead at 74
Several Facebook users shared the news on the social media platform as they paid tributes to the musician, including Petrocy's pal Randy Linville.
"We started out in bands as competition to each other," he wrote. "His band, the Mafia of Music, by the band, Lyphe. Battle of the Bands was a thing back then. But then, with John Regensburg, Kevin Middaugh, Carolyn Porter Mccabe, and Joni Regensburg, we created a group called Petrocy's People."
Linville continued, "We played current Sergio Mendes and The Fifth Dimension pop songs, and were very popular in the Midwest until 1973 when the band broke up. John was a great entertainer. He had a gift for timing. Timing of the jokes, timing of the music."
Petrocy's friend also expressed his pleasure in having the chance to make music with the keyboardist before sharing his wish to see him "down the road."
Meanwhile, their other friends and colleagues left messages on the Dignity Memorial's website.
"Mr. Petrocy was my elementary school principal over 35 years ago. I still remember him singing Sherry by the four seasons every day when I had to go to the office to take my medication," one said. "He played an amazing Elvis for our Christmas play and I truly have such wonderful memories from school because of the environment he created. He certainly had an impact on us all."
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Another added, "I remember John from high school and he was always liked by everyone. Prayers for family."
No cause of death was disclosed.
Aside from Petrocy's People, the late musician was also a member of other bands like Turnstyle, Encore at Americana, Nuclear Test Project, Mafia of Music and the Avalons.
He is survived by his wife, Donna Mahon Petrocy; their son, Joseph; and their grandchildren.
His bereaved family has arranged funeral services scheduled on Wednesday, February 7, 5 p.m., at the Breitenbach Anderson Funeral Home.
The public can leave a note, story or a photo on the Dignity Memorial's page or send flowers to Petrocy.
