Robert Charles Kropp

Robert Charles Kropp

Robert "Bob" C. Kropp, 85, of Tamaqua, passed away unexpectedly of a sudden illness on Sunday, March 19 at St. Luke's Hospital - Carbon Campus. He was the husband of the late Doris U. Kropp, who passed on August 19, 2020. They had shared 55 years of marriage at the time of her passing. Born in Coaldale on April 8, 1937, he was the son of the late Russell and Ruth (Lewis) Kropp. Bob was a 1955 graduate of Tamaqua High School. He later attended Drexel University for mechanical engineering. He began work at Atlas Powder Company in Tamaqua. He spent time working in the Valley Forge area before returning to Tamaqua where he became plant manager of pyrotechnics operations for Atlas. Bob continued his work as manager, overseeing the purchase of Atlas by ICI Americas. After 42 years of service, Bob retired and served as a consultant for Thoren Industries in Hazleton. Bob was a devout member of Saint John's United Church of Christ and was keenly involved in his church community. He served as an Elder Emeritus of the Consistory, participated with the Investment Committee, and fulfilled many other weekly duties. Bob was a member and past president of the Tamaqua Rotary Club, assistant secretary of the Tamaqua Water Authority, and a member of the Tamaqua Lodge No.238 of the Free and Accepted Masons. Family was of the utmost importance to Bob, and he put the needs of his family above anything else. He adored his grandchildren and loved to attend their performances, athletic events, and other activities. Bob was an avid supporter of the Tamaqua Raider Band as both a father and grandfather and he appreciated all kinds of music. Bob loved taking yearly trips to Ocean City, NJ with the whole family. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening, fly fishing, golfing, walking his dog, and attending Penn State football games with friends and family. Bob was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by two daughters, Kristine K. Betz of Mantzville and Doctor Kathryn E. Kropp (wife of Michael McGinley) of Andreas; grandchildren, Molly Betz of Allentown, Hannah Betz of Carlisle, and Peter McGinley of Andreas; brother, David Kropp and his wife Leslie of Pittsburgh; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog and constant companion, Mango. In addition to his wife and parents, Bob was predeceased by brother Russell P. Kropp and sister Kathryn E. Kropp. Bob was adored by his family and everyone he met. He was extremely proud of the strong family he built. He will be sorely missed. Services will be held at 11 a.m on Saturday, April 8, 2023, in St. John United Church of Christ, 150 Pine Street, Tamaqua with The Rev. Kevin Duffy-Guy officiating. Interment in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Tamaqua will follow the services. Call9-11 a.m. on Saturday, April 8, in the church. Memorials in Bob's name may be made to St. John United Church of Christ Memorial Fund, 150 Pine Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252. Online condolences may be made at www.zgfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are being handled by the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua.