Stephen D. Brower, 43, of Decatur, Ind., and formerly of Akron, Ind., passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013, at his home.

He was born June 25, 1969, to Daniel Brower and Barbara Manns. He was a 1987 graduate of Tippecanoe Valley High School and completed diesel mechanic school in Lima, Ohio.

Following his mechanics school he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1989 where he served in Kuwait during Desert Storm. After 8 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 Blue Grass music. He was a Harley Davidson enthusiast and had most recently been riding within the last year. Stephen participated as a member of the Patriot Guard Riders in the ride that escorted the Vietnam Veterans Wall to Marion, Ind.

He is survived by a daughter: Aileen Brower, Fayettville, N.C.; a son: Levi Brower, Rochester, Ind.; his mother: Barbara Brower, Akron; his father: Daniel A. (Wanda) Brower, Rochester; a granddaughter: Elizabeth Brower; two brothers: Roger (Pam) Brower, Akron; and Daniel R. (Sarah) Brower, Rockwell, Texas; a step-sister: Christy (Chris) Vanata, Rochester; two step-brothers: Greg Mow and Gary (Becky) Mow, both of Rochester; and several nieces and nephews.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, is handling the arrangements.