TOMAH- Steven James Sowle, age 78, of Tomah, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday, May 24, 2024, at the Serenity House. He was born January 18, 1946, to Harvey “Buster” and Carol (Brown) Sowle. Throughout his childhood, Steve acted as big brother to not only Brian, but to his cousins and close neighborhood kids with his guidance and gentle, teachable moments. He loved playing football and basketball and he loved being a Tomah Indian. Steve was incredibly proud of his small-town roots and the many roles he had within the Tomah community.
After high school, Steve’s educational path continued at UW-River Falls, after which he proudly served in the National Guard. When he came back to Tomah, he and his uncle, William Brown, managed The Tomah Greenhouse, a family endeavor started by his grandmother, Louise (Storkel) Brown. Running the greenhouse and delivering the flowers brought Steve immense joy. He was known to even dress up in costumes around the holidays and that brought an extra smile to people’s faces when the delivery van pulled up.
Steve’s professional life was as diverse as it was impactful. For 27 years, he served as a volunteer firefighter, demonstrating courage and selflessness. The fire department was a second family and he gained many lasting friendships. Steve found joy working at Hilliker’s Tree Farm, where even in retirement, he continued to offer his help during their busiest season. He enjoyed welcoming the shoppers, providing knowledge of trees, and running the bailer.
In 2009, he retired from his cherished role as a rural mail carrier, a job he often referred to as “the best job I ever had,” thanks to the many personal connections he made along his route. His route was more than a journey through the countryside; it was a series of friendships, each mailbox a chapter in his story.
At home, Steve was a “girl dad” and enjoyed every minute, even polishing tiny fingernails and combing ponytails. He enjoyed backyard pool parties and BBQ’s, music rocking from his juke box, building his model trains, and sharing countless stories of times passed. Steve was a true do-it-yourselfer. He would always say, “Let’s try it and find out.” He just had a zest for life.
Steve was a devoted husband to Annette with whom he shared a love and strong partnership with. He loved camping and traveling with Annette in their motorhome, experiences that introduced them to many wonderful people. Steve was incredibly proud of his private pilot license and enjoyed flying any chance he could get. He liked taking people on rides to give them a new experience. Yet, above all, it was his family that brought him the most happiness. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he was there for them in any way he could be, whether at sporting events, family functions, or just to check in.
Steve’s legacy is one of a generous and kind spirit, a man who gave freely of himself to his family, his friends, and his community. He will be missed, but his memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Annette (Vitcenda); his daughter, Emily (Steve) Ewers and their children, Madeline, Ruby, Rachel, and Henry; and his daughter, Erica (Travis) Champlin and their children, Laney, Blake and Bodey; his brother, Brian (Bryan) Sowle of Ajijic, Mexico; and his niece, Anna (Derek) Humphrey of Riverside, California. He is further survived by many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandmother, Louise Brown, and his uncle, William Brown.
Steve’s family would like to thank the staff at the Serenity House, and his in-home caretakers, Terri and Deena, for the wonderful care they provided for him in his final days.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at the Bible Evangelical Free Church in Tomah. Pastor Tim Erickson will officiate. Family and friends are invited for visitation on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will be held at the Oak Grove Cemetery on Friday at 2:00 p.m. The Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Torkelson Funeral Home
