Carl M. Dropka

Carl Dropka

Carl M. Dropka, age 63, lifelong resident of the Village of North Riverside suddenly passed August 16, 2018. He leaves behind his loving wife of 39 years, Milissa Dropka, nee Mentzer, devoted son, Michael (fiancé Christiana Gentry) Dropka, his mother Dorothy Dropka, mother-in-law, Mildred Mentzer and brother-in-law, Cary Mentzer, uncle of Raymond Mentzer and of course Daisy and Lada. Carl was fiercely proud of his 34 year employment in the North Riverside Fire Department, starting first as a paid-on-call, then one of the first hires in the new full-time Fire Department. He rose through the ranks first as Lieutenant and then Deputy Chief. Carl then retired in July of 2011 as a Lieutenant. Although never in the armed services, Carl loved his country and was truly knowledgeable in all military history with an enormous emphasis on the Civil War. Carl was a man of few words and held his emotions close to his heart. He was extremely proud of his son Michael, his home and its meticulous lawn and the valued friendships of Dominic and Gert Salvino and many other close friends, including the Rusty Buttons. He was preceded in death by his father, Chester Dropka, father-in-law Curt Mentzer and many other aunts and uncles. We, his loving family thank you all in advance for your prayers, love, care, support and understanding during this difficult time. Visitation Monday, August 20, 2018 from 3 P.M. to 9 P.M. and Tuesday, August 21, 2018 from 9 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. at Hitzeman Funeral Home, Ltd., 9445 W. 31st Street, Brookfield, IL  60513. Funeral 9:30 A.M. to Mater Christi Church, 2431 S. 10th Avenue, North Riverside, IL 60546. Mass 10 A.M. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Memorials in Carl’s name are appreciated to The Battle of Franklin Trust, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, TN 37064 or The Friends of Gettysburg Foundation, PO Box 4629, Gettysburg, PA 17325. Information 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com

Print Obituary & Condolences Print Obituary & Condolences

Offer Condolence for the family of Carl M. Dropka

Messages of Condolence

  1. George & Sharon Novak condolence:

    Missy & Family,

    We extend our Deepest Sympathy to you on Carl’s passing. Hold onto the Memories!!

    Sending Love & Prayers!

    George & Sharon Novsk


  2. John Walsh condolence:

    Friend ever since the beginning of high school, teammate, board game pal, baseball park buddy, and a man who would not take the easy way out, one of a kind. A part of us went with you, but a part of you will always stay with us.
    Love and condolences to Missy, Michael, and Dorothy.


  3. Jeff Blei condolence:

    Dear Missy, Michael and Dorothy,
    My heartfelt condolences. We all lost a special guy this week. Witty, fun to be with, great sense of humor, a true friend and teammate. We had a special time together that will never be forgotten, only missed. They say time and great memories heal. May the three of you overcome the loss of Carl and be blessed with his presence from within.Carl was a man of honor, friendship and family.


  4. Peter and Janka Foret condolence:

    Dear Michael,
    Our condolences and deep sympathy.

    Janka and Peter Foret


  5. Janice Greenenwald condolence:

    Missy and family-I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family


  6. George Letavay condolence:

    Dear Missy, Michael and Dorothy,

    Our deepest sympathy to you on Carl’s passing. I had the pleasure of getting to know Carl in high school! He will be remembered by me as a wonderful, brave, kind and honorable man. The world will be a lesser place with his absence!


  7. Teresa Esposito condolence:

    Dear Missy and Michael,

    Beyond sorry for this loss. As a resident of NR who has needed
    our Fire Dept a few times was ALWAYS relieved when Carl was one of the Fireman showing up for the call. ALWAYS a Professional but, Caring….which is so greatly needed. May your Treasured Memories carry you both…Always, Teresa Espsoito


  8. Tadd and Sandy Gasaway condolence:

    Dear Missy and Michael,

    Please accept our deepest sympathy in the loss of your husband and father. Keep his memories in your heart and he wwill be with u forever


  9. Luis and Isabel Diaz condolence:

    Missy and Michael,

    Praying that God gives you the strength needed for these tough times. May you find peace in all of the love that everyone has for you. So sorry for your loss.


  10. Tina Dravecky condolence:

    Dear Missy,

    Wishing you and the family peace comfort and courage to face the time ahead with loving memories to forever hold in your heart.

    Wrapping you in love and prayer


  11. Moises Vargas condolence:

    Remembering a Great Man
    La Casa del Habano Staff.
    Tijuana Mexico.


Please share your thoughts ...