Stephen D. Brower, 43, of Decatur, and formerly of Akron, passed away unexpectedly Feb. 27, 2013, in his residence. He was born June 25, 1969, in Rochester, to Daniel and Barbara Manns Brower. He was a 1987 graduate of Tippecanoe Valley High School and completed diesel mechanic school in Lima, Ohio. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1989, where he served in Kuwait during Desert Storm. After eight years of service he received his honorable discharge. Due to his military service he became disabled and was a member of the Disabled American Veterans Association. He enjoyed playing the banjo and bluegrass music. He was a Harley Davidson enthusiast and had most recently been riding within the last year. He participated as a member of the Patriot Guard Riders in the ride that escorted the Vietnam Veterans Wall to Marion. Surviving are a daughter, Aileen Brower, Fayettville, N.C.; a son, Levi Brower, Rochester; his mother, Barbara Brower, Akron; his father, Daniel A. (and spouse Wanda) Brower, Rochester; a granddaughter, Elizabeth Brower; two brothers, Roger (and spouse Pam) Brower, Akron, and Daniel R. (and spouse Sarah) Brower, Rockwell, Texas; a stepsister, Christy (and spouse Chris) Vanata, Rochester; two stepbrothers, Greg Mow and Gary (and spouse Becky) Mow, all of Rochester; and several nieces and nephews. Celebration of his life will be at a later date. The final remembrance place will be in Akron Cemetery. Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, is in charge of arrangements. ***** Memorials are open to the donor’s choice. Condolence may be sent via www.hartzlerfuneralservices.com
