NORTHAMPTON - Stephen F. Rand, 46, passed away quietly on Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011, at his home in Northampton.

Steve was born in Boston on April 14, 1965, the first son of Sandra (Brickhill) Rand of Marlborough, Conn., and the late Alan R. Rand. In 1983, after graduating from RHAM High School in Hebron, Conn., Steve moved to New York City to attend the School of Visual Arts. After two years of pursuing his interest in the visual arts, his love and enthusiasm for music drew him to Northampton, where he founded two highly influential rock groups, The Loneliest Christmas Tree and The Caroline Know.

Steve moved back to New York City in the '90s and called Brooklyn his home for many years. In 2000, he resurfaced with a new band, Stephen Rand and His Magic Ponies, and a new album titled "The Blushing Bachelor." Steve returned to Northampton in 2005 and reformed his seminal rock band, The Caroline Know, and performed a number of shows in Massachusetts and New York throughout his remaining years.

Steve was also well known by many for having a quick and snappy wit, an engaging personality and a deep love for friends, family and animals.

He is survived by his mother; brother Terry and his wife, Karianne; and his beloved niece, Kira, who came into this world 2½ years ago, shining a big, bright light of love on his heart.

A Celebration of his Life will take place Friday, Aug. 26, at the Aurora-McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Road, Colchester, Conn. Friends may call starting at 1 p.m. before a celebration service at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, family and friends are suggested to make a contribution to the college fund for Kira. Contributions should be made to: Kira Rand, c/o Liberty Bank, 29 Wm. F. Palmer Road, Moodus, CT 06469.

For online condolences, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com.