Obituary of Joseph M. Brower

Joseph M. Brower, Sr., of Glen Mills, PA, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2021. He was 92. Born September 12, 1928 in Bryn Mawr, PA, he was the son of the late Joseph Brower and Margaret Wells Brower. Joe was a graduate of Lower Merion High School and Pennsylvania State University. Following service in the Navy, he graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. He established his practice in Lima, PA, where he served the community for many decades. During his time in the Navy, he met Barbara Lloyd Zipf of Ft. Lauderdale, his wife of almost 66 years. They were married and lived in Florida, relocating to the Delaware Valley following his discharge. Joe was a man of many passions. He was a devoted family man, and particularly enjoyed summer family time in OCNJ. An avid sports fan, his years as a Penn State cheerleader were the foundation for his lifetime love of Nittany Lion football. He was an accomplished organist, dedicated Civil War buff, and irrepressible joke teller. Jovial and quick-witted, his patients were met with a simple message on leaving his office: “Smile.” He served Middletown Presbyterian Church for many years as an Elder. He was involved with the Presbyterian Men's Social Union, including a term as President. Rose Tree Media School District benefitted from his services as school dentist as well as PTA officer. He was treasurer for the USS Saufley (DD-465) alumni organization. In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his brother Robert Brower, and sisters Margaret Barr and Mary Brower. Joe is survived by his beloved wife Barbara; sons John Brower (Joan) of Havertown, PA, and Joseph Brower II (Denise) of Menden, MA; daughter Suzanne Brower of West Chester, PA; brother Thomas Brower (Anne) of Claremont, CA; grandchildren Adam Brower (Amy), Eric Brower, Amanda Esquilin (Brian), Michelle Brower, Joseph Brower III, and Samantha Brower; great-grandchildren Zachary Brower, Molly Brower, Logan Esquilin, Drake Esquilin, and Zoey Esquilin, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joe’s name, may be made to: Paralyzed Veterans of America, 5000 Wissahickon Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19144.