Michelle Laroque Was the Mother of Steve Harwell’s Only Known Child

Despite her former partner's success, Michelle Laroque has led a life out of the public eye. However, in 2001, she and Steve Harwell made headlines after suffering a great tragedy: losing their child.

Michelle Laroque's former partner, Steve Harwell, made a name for himself as a musician and as the frontman of the legendary rock band Smash Mouth. Following his success, the public was interested in other areas of his life, including his love life.

However, little is known about Michelle Laroque, as during her relationship with the rock star and following their breakup, she steered clear of the limelight. But sadly, in 2001, the world was let in on a sorrowful time in the former couple's life.

Michelle Laroque and Her Former Partner Lost Their Son to Cancer

In 2001, Michelle and Steve's son, Presley Scott Harwell, was not even one year old when he died of acute lymphocytic leukemia. According to reports, Michelle's ex was on tour when his son fell critically ill at Sunrise Children's Hospital in Las Vegas.

Presley eventually passed away due to complications from his cancer diagnosis. The rock star's band had to cancel some of their scheduled appearances and shows, and a representative of the band shared:

"They're taking it one day at a time."

Michelle Laroque's Ex Had a Restraining Order Filed against Him

Michelle has mostly stayed away from the spotlight over the years. As a result, little is known about her relationship with Steve — who founded The Presley Scott Research Foundation for Leukemia, a now inactive research foundation in honor of their late son the year he died — and when they broke up.

However, a few years ago, her ex proved he was ready to move on after proposing to his girlfriend, Esther Campbell. But things took a turn for the worse shortly after, as in 2019, Esther sought a restraining order against Steve after he exhibited "threatening behavior."

According to Esther, Michelle's ex's drinking had gotten out of hand, leading him to become verbally and mentally abusive. She alleged that Steve had stolen and destroyed her phone and left her car windows open in the rain after stealing her car keys.

Reports confirmed in 2020 that the courts had granted Esther a temporary restraining order, which required Steve to stop contacting her and stay 200 yards away.

Michelle Laroque's Former Partner Died in His Home

In legal documents, Esther claimed that in early 2020, Steve's drinking had gotten better after his visit to a rehabilitation center. However, the singer reportedly relapsed, and matters worsened.

After a "chaotic" live performance and suffering "numerous symptoms directly linked with his current medical situation," Michelle's ex's representatives confirmed that he was retiring from music. They shared:

"Steve has been dealing with long-term medical issues over the last eight years [...]. As of today, Steve will be retiring from Smash Mouth to focus on his physical and mental health."

Michelle's former partner's health further deteriorated, and on September 3, 2023, Steve Harwell's manager, Robert Hayes, confirmed that the rock star's years of alcohol abuse had seen him suffer liver failure. "Steve is resting at home and being cared for by his fiancé [Esther Campbell] and hospice care," Robert revealed.

However, on September 4, 2023, Robert confirmed that Steve had died from liver failure at his home in Boise, Idaho. At the time of his death, he was surrounded by family and friends and reportedly "passed peacefully and comfortably."