Carl M. 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