John William Ropa

1939 - 2023

John William Ropa

Feb. 23, 1939 – Nov. 22, 2023

MIDDLETON - The family and friends of John William Ropa announce his passing on Wednesday, the 22nd of November 2023. John was born to Edna Menge and Leslie Ropa on Feb. 23, 1939. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Arete Kargas Ropa, his son Daniel John, and his brother Robert.

John was married to Arete Ropa on Jan. 26, 1963, in a Greek Orthodox ceremony in Des Plaines, Ill. A graduate of Main East High School, John completed his undergraduate schooling at DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind., and earned an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago. John also served as a member of the Illinois National Guard from 1963-1969.

John was the father to three sons, Daniel, David and Douglas, father-in-law to Heidi Ropa, and grandparent to three grandchildren, Samuel, Benjamin and Darshana. He was also affectionately known as "Clyde" to dozens of nieces, nephews and friends of the family.

An employee of Abbott Laboratories for more than 30 years, John worked in the International Trade Division in the area of materials management. One of his most impactful accomplishments was the establishment of an international free trade zone in northern Illinois.

An avid writer, John was extremely proud of his novel, "The Non-Product Consolidation Operation," a satiric take on the foibles and ineptitude often found in corporate life. He always had an extra copy on hand in the event he met someone who had not yet read his book. His family suspects some of the people he met lied, and told him they had already read it.

An avid gardener, John loved walking his land, growing fruits, veggies and flowers, and attempting to graft fruit tree branches onto the branches of other trees. John hoped that someday, somewhere, a ripe pear would be found growing on the branch of an apple tree. In his final year, the simple act of watching marigolds flourish and bloom was enough to bring great joy.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the celebration of life on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please support the organization of your choice and write a letter to tell the family why that organization touches your heart. There are so many opportunities to give in this world; we should encourage each other to give often.

The family extends its sincere thanks to the several communities, staff and residents who cared for John in the final years of his life. We are grateful for Middleton Glen, Agrace HospiceCare and Brookdale West. The family recognizes Regina Wilkins, in particular, whose unwavering love, strength and courage brought John so much comfort and joy in his final years.

John was generous in many ways. Most importantly, John liked to give laughter and smiles. He often remarked that if he could make one person laugh each day, it was a good day. It is easy to be sad, it takes effort to make others laugh. Please continue to bring joy and laughter to the hearts of those around you.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761