Frank L. Orlop

Ballston Lake - Frank L. Orlop, known affectionately as Frank to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, in Gloversville, NY, at the age of 67.
Born on October 19, 1957, in Albany, NY, he was the son of the late Ronald and Elizabeth (nee: Poppey) Orlop.
Frank was a proud graduate of Shaker High School, where he laid the foundation for a lifetime of learning and hands-on work. His early years were spent on the family farm, Orlop Farms, where he worked alongside his father, a produce farmer. It was there that Frank developed his gift for mechanics; repairing tractors, solving problems, and finding practical solutions with ease.
Throughout his life, Frank was known for his independence, expertise, and tireless work ethic. He built a career in Field Service Management, holding contracts across New England, including a significant tenure with IBM in Poughkeepsie. Most recently, he worked as a Field Service Technician for Orange E.V., where he continued to demonstrate his remarkable skill and dedication.
Frank met the love of his life, Karen, in 1995, and the two were married the following year. In 1998, they welcomed their daughter, Kara, and soon after made their home in Ballston Lake. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories over the past 29 years.
Frank's interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. Known for his mechanical know-how, Frank was the person everyone in the neighborhood called when something broke. Whether it was a lawnmower, car, or kitchen appliance, he somehow always had the right part on hand - and if he didn't, he'd find a way to make it work. His ability to fix just about anything, and his willingness to help anyone who asked, made him a cornerstone of his community and a friend to all. He loved teaching Kara and her friends how to change oil or replace brakes, sharing his knowledge with patience, humor, and pride.
Frank's involvement in his daughter's life was profound. Together, they converted the barn on their property into a two-stall stable, welding gates, building fences, and constructing the stalls side by side. He taught Kara how to weld, use tools, and take pride in hard work. Beyond the projects, he was her biggest cheerleader at horse shows and a constant source of encouragement in every endeavor. His steady presence, patience, and love shaped Kara's confidence and independence, qualities he nurtured through every shared project and moment spent together.
A familiar face at local co-ops and farmers markets, especially the Troy Farmers Market, Frank loved exploring local produce, connecting with people, and turning each trip into a small adventure. Frank also loved to travel, especially throughout New England. His work as a field service technician took him across the region, and he came to know every back road and hidden gem it had to offer. Martha's Vineyard held a special place in his heart, it was not only his favorite destination but also where he and Karen spent their honeymoon. No matter where he went, Frank had an unmatched knack for finding the best local restaurants, the small, tucked-away places where the food was incredible and the locals gathered. His adventurous spirit and love of exploration made every trip memorable.
Frank was also known for his quick wit and endless supply of jokes. Whether it was a clever one-liner or a story with a long, winding punchline, he always had something ready to make people laugh. He took joy in sharing his humor with everyone - family, friends, coworkers, or anyone he met along the way. His jokes became a part of his charm, a reflection of his lighthearted spirit and ability to bring people together through laughter.
Frank is survived by his loving wife, Karen (nee Czapski); his daughter, Kara Czapski-Orlop; and his siblings, Val Orlop of Hoosick Falls, NY, John (Beth) Orlop of Delanson, NY, and Ronnie Lee Orlop of Lake Tahoe, NY.
At this time, no services are scheduled.