Reverend Steven Sylvester Sower was born on June 26, 1951 in Belding Michigan to Sylvester Sower (deceased) and Viola Sower (deceased). He grew up with his siblings Doris (Dee Dee) who preceded him death, Vicki, Kevan, Kelly, Susan, and Krinn.

He graduated from Orchard View high school where he lettered in swimming and tennis. After graduation he served in the Army for 3 years where he received an E7 ranking. He served at Division Headquarter: Korea, NATO Field Command: Germany, and SEATO Command: Thailand. Following his years of service, he attended and graduated from Anderson University and Seminary with a Bachelors in Family Counseling and Masters of Divinity. While in college he worked as a Resident Adviser, Ice Rink Manager, Associate Director at the YMCA, Lifeguard, Pool Manger of three city pools, and a House Parent/Counselor to troubled youth.

Upon graduation he was called to Pastor at East Muskegon Church of God. During the first years of his calling, he became the president of both Fathers Who Care and Fathers for Equal Rights, and was instrumental in the reforming of the child support laws for the state of Michigan. He worked in the ministry at East Muskegon Church of God tirelessly and faithfully for 47 years. His greatest joy was serving the Lord and bringing others to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. He poured himself out selflessly in service of others and his family. While working in the ministry he held many other part time positions. He was a Children’s Museum Director, Substitute Teacher, and Care Giver. He would frequently fix and maintain the church building as well as homes of parishioners in need. He could fix anything. He also built three houses and owned rental properties. Church ministries were his hobbies, and often told others to find enjoyment in the work of their hands. He never retired from the ministry. He was a faithful husband and father. He was slow to speak, quick to listen, and full of kind hearted compassion and wisdom. He was frugal to himself, but generous to everyone else.

Reverend Steven Sylvester Sower glorified the Lord, finished his race well, and went to be with His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on October 31, 2026 surrounded by his family.

He is survived by Patti VanderStelt-Sower (fiancée), Seth Sower, Steven Jr. (Kate) Sower, Caleb Sower, Rebecca (Michael) Nousain. His grand children include: Steven M. Sower, Marcie Sower, Mylie Sower, David Nousain, Gracie Nousain, and Jonathan Nousain.

A Memorial Service will be held at East Muskegon Church of God on Friday, November 6, 2026 at 3pm. Reception to follow.

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

John 14:1-3