James Kropaczewski

James H. “Kroppy” Kropaczewski Sr., 72 years, a lifelong resident of Monroe, MI went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 3:30 PM in Magnum Care of Monroe. Jim had been in declining health for the past year. Jim was born September 11, 1938 in Monroe, MI the son of the late Valentine and Florence (Mankowski) Kropaczewski. Jim was educated in Monroe and was a 1957 graduate of Monroe High School. On July 5, 1985, Jim married Joanne (Engel) Redmon in Toledo, OH. Jim was employed by the Monroe Auto Equipment Company for 31 years. He was the print shop manager and worked in the marketing department. Jim traveled throughout the United States to set up for automotive trade shows. He retired in 1998. Jim was a very active member of the Monroe First Downers where he helped design and sell products to benefit the organization. He also was a director of their youth football program and was a former board member of the Monroe High School Alumni Association. Jim was a member and past Governor of the Monroe Moose Lodge #884. Jim also enjoyed camping and fishing. Most of all Jim loved and enjoyed being with family. Jim is survived by his beloved wife Joanne, 4 loving children; James H. (Evie) Kropaczewski Jr., Thomas Kropaczewski, Robin Kropaczewski, and Debbie Treadway all of Monroe, his mother in law Neva Engel of Monroe, 3 step children; Gregory (Stephanie) Redmon of Westland, MI, Justin and Jared (Amata) Redmon both of Monroe, 13 cherished grandchildren, 8 treasured great grandchildren, 3 brothers; Gerald (Irma) Kropaczewski of Columbus, GA, Kenneth (Helen) Kropaczewski of Toledo, OH and Lawrence (Sandy) Kropaczewski of Ida, MI, 3 sisters; Patricia Lee of Temperance, MI, Mary Lou Pilarski and Nancy Kubiak both of Toledo, OH. In addition to his parents Jim was preceded in death by 5 brothers and sisters. Jim’s family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 from 1-5 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd. in Monroe where a memorial service celebrating Jim’s life will be held at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to Monroe First Downers or Magnum Care of Monroe’s Employee Council. Jim’s family would like to thank the B Unit Nurses and Aids at Magnum Care for all their kindness and loving care throughout Jim’s illness.