Clarence Eugene (Gene) Brower, 91, Topeka, formerly of Iola, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2015, at a local skilled nursing facility.
Mr. Brower, born July 11, 1923, on a farm in Allen County, was the son of Delmer and Ruby Brower. He graduated from Iola High School in 1942. He served in the 8th Air Force during World Ward II as a top turret gunner and flight engineer on a B17. His aircraft was shot down over German-occupied Holland in 1944. After surviving the crash landing, he was captured and held prisoner for nine months before being liberated by Allied Forces.
Upon returning to the U.S. he began a lifelong career in Topeka as a plumber/pipefitter. He was a member of Union Local 165 for more than 65 years; was an instructor and joint coordinator at their apprentice school for more than 20 years; and served two terms as business agent for the Local before retiring in 1985.
Clarence was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Norma Lee Latta, in 2003. He is survived by their two children, Stan Brower and wife Gail and Nancy (Brower) Hanni; three grandchildren, James Brower and wife Stacia, Denise Schott and husband Brian and Brian Hanni; and brother, Dene Brower, Iola.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Monday at Mount Hope Chapel, 4700 SW 17th St., Topeka. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will receive visitors prior to the service at 9:30 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprentice Training Fund of Kansas, 1330 E. First St., Suite 110, Wichita, KS 67214.
Penwell-Gabel Mid-Town Chapel is assisting with arrangements. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com
Clarence Brower
