Leonard G. Kropp

Died May 1, 2024

GILLS PIER – Leonard George Kropp, (100 and a half), of Gills Pier, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in Traverse City at the Munson Hospice House. He was born on October 17, 1923, in Good Harbor, Michigan, to Wilbur and Evelyn (Dechow) Kropp.

Leonard led a remarkable life defined by service, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

A proud graduate of Leland High School in 1943, Leonard embarked on a career in well drilling that would span decades. His journey in this field began during high school, where he assisted his Grandpa William and Uncle Adolph Kropp. Leonard’s ingenuity and work ethic were evident early on, as he even built the first electric scoreboard for the gym at Leland. He was also excused from classes a few times to repair the school’s pump.

Upon graduation, Leonard enlisted in the US Army and served his country with valor and distinction during World War II. He was among the first American soldiers to land on the Bataan Peninsula after the Death March. He displayed exceptional bravery by rendering aid to a wounded officer under fire, carrying him 1 ½ miles back to the field hospital. This act of valor earned him the Bronze Star and a promotion to sergeant.

Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Leonard returned home to Good Harbor and married Evelyn E. Houdek at St. Paul’s Church on October 6, 1951. He established his own well drilling business in 1947, a venture he dedicated himself to until his retirement in 2005. Leonard’s expertise in well drilling was unparalleled, and he was renowned for his ability to recall details about wells across Leelanau and Grand Traverse counties.

A lifelong member of the Michigan Well Drillers Association, Leonard received the Distinguished Service Award in 1993. After retiring, Leonard and Evelyn relocated to Gills Pier, where Leonard found joy in assisting his son-in-law Steve on the farm. He lent his skills to various tasks and projects, always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors and friends.

In addition to his professional achievements, Leonard cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was affectionately known to them as GrandpaBuster. Healwayshadbiscuits in his truck for the grand dogs who were always glad to see him.

Army hero, husband, dad, grandpa, business owner… a fine example of the greatest generation.

Leonard is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Evelyn; his daughters Sherry (Thomas) Swanson, and Kathy (Steven) Kalchik; his son, Dale (Carole) Kropp; his sister Arlene Dean; grandchildren Robert (Sarah) Swanson, Sara Swanson, Michael (Marissa) Kalchik, Brian Kalchik, and Jennifer (David) Byers; great-grandchildren Michael Kalchik Jr, Matthew Eugene Kalchik, and Emily Kalchik; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Eugene Kropp in the Korean War, sister and brother-in-law Audrey (Charles) Gebow and brother in-law Robert Dean. Memorial contributions may be made in Leonard’s honor to either the Leelanau County Veterans Memorial c/o Leelanau County Treasurer 8527 E. Government Ctr. Dr, Suite #104 Suttons Bay, MI 49682 or to Munson Hospice House, 1150 Medical Campus Driver, Traverse City, MI 49684.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at the Leelanau Township Cemetery on Saturday, June 8th at 3:00 pm. A luncheon will be held immediately following at the St Wenceslaus Church in Gills Pier.

Please join us in celebrating Leonard’s remarkable life and sharing condolences and memories with the family at www. martinson.info.

Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.