Mary Jane Dropp

Mary Dropp, 75, died on November 14, 2023, after a long battle with dementia.  She was residing in Kansas City, Missouri at the time of her death.  She spent most of her life in Milwaukee, Wisconsin until the progression of her dementia and the illness of her husband, Gene, required a move to be closer to family members.

Mary was born in Chicago, Illinois to Arthur and Loraine Gorham on January 8,1948.  When Mary was 13, the family moved to Wauwatosa, Wisconsin where she attended Milwaukee Lutheran High School. Mary fostered her love of books working part-time in Marshall Field’s bookstore.  After graduation, Mary began a career in the insurance industry joining Employers Mutual Company. It was there that she met her husband, Gene. Mary loyally worked for this company and retired after working for them for over 40 years.

Mary enjoyed reading and loved all animals but especially her pet dogs.  She could often be found curled up on the couch reading a book with her loyal dog by her side.  Christmas was always “right around the corner” for Mary.  Her warm hospitality, generous spirit, and creative eye were displayed each Christmas through her meticulously coordinated decorations, delightful spread of tasty treats, and her thoughtful gifts.  Mary appreciated the beauty of God’s creation by tending to her flower gardens.  She patronized the arts frequently visiting shows at Milwaukee Art Museum and The Art Institute of Chicago.

While living in Milwaukee, Mary was an active member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church typically meeting her mother for Sunday services.  A woman of faith, Mary supported the advancement of the Gospel both through her local church and overseas in support of several missionaries. 

Mary and Gene were loving and devoted to each other throughout their marriage.  Despite the challenges of their disabling illnesses late in life, they were always together, even after Mary’s transition into assisted living and memory care.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Amy (Joshua) Willadsen of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and Aubrey (Michael) Hall of Kansas City, Missouri, granddaughter, Anastasia Willadsen, brother, William (Marilyn) Gorham of Hudson, Wisconsin, and sister, Sarah Gorham of Plymouth, Massachusetts.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Eugene “Gene” Dropp.  

“The strife is o’er the battle done; Now is the victor’s triumph won; Now be the song of praise begun.  Alleluia!”

A visitation will be held from 10:30-11:00am on Monday, November 20^th with a service to follow, both at Speaks Suburban Chapel, Independence, MO. Service will be viewable on Speaks website. An inurnment and reception will also be held in Milwaukee, WI at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com.