Stephen Allen Branstrator

Stephen "Steve" Allen Branstrator, 75, of rural Ossian passed away on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at his home. He was born on June 7, 1946 in Fort Wayne, a son of the late Robert H. and Betty (Hatfield) Branstrator, Sr. Steve was a 1964 graduate of Elmhurst High school and went on to receive an associate’s degree in business from International Business College. He courageously served his country as a U.S. Marine during the Vietnam War, later serving four years as Commander for VFW Post 1421 and one year as District Commander for the VFW’s 4th District. He worked at International Harvester for 19 years, State Development Center in maintenance for 21 years, and Menards for four years before he finally retired. He was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, Thiele Road and American Legion Post 111. Steve enjoyed spending quality time with his grandchildren, gardening, long walks with his wife, and tinkering in his barn. He was married to his loving wife, Charlene (Dettmer) Branstrator, for more than 48 years. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two children, Darla Howard and Matthew Branstrator; grandchildren, Joseph (Robyn) Howard, Justin (Cassandra) Branstrator, Kyle Branstrator, and Caleb Howard; great granddaughter, Adrienne; and a great grandson, due in September 2022; siblings, Robert Branstrator Jr., Beverly Dawson, Randy (Connie) Branstrator, Jeff (Ellen) Branstrator, Jill Austin, and Laurie Miller. Besides his parents, he was preceded in passing by a daughter, Melissa Anne. Funeral services will occur on Thursday, June 2, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 16933 Thiele Road, Fort Wayne, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation will also be held Wednesday, June 1, 2022 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Funeral Home, 120 West Mill Street, Ossian. Burial and military honors will take place at St. Mark Lutheran Church Cemetery immediately following the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Stephen's memory may be made to St. Mark Lutheran Church special projects or flower fund. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elzey-patterson-rodak.com.