Diann Elaine Kropp

Diann Elaine Kropp, age 78, of St. Helen, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at The Villa in West Branch. She was born on March 23, 1948, in Greenville, Michigan, and lived a life marked by kindness, thoughtfulness, and love for her family and community.

Diann graduated from Lapeer High School in 1966 and carried the values of hard work and dedication with her throughout her life. She began her career working as a tax assessor in the Upper Peninsula and also enjoyed selling real estate. Later, she spent 18 years driving school bus for the West Branch Rose City School District, where she was a familiar and trusted presence to many children and families. After retiring from the school district, she continued to stay active by helping with the family roofing business, Bob's Roofing.

Diann enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and found happiness in spending time with her family. She loved bowling, playing cards, dice, and cornhole, and she especially enjoyed walking and camping. These pastimes reflected her warm spirit and her appreciation for time spent with those she cared about most. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of togetherness to those around her.

Above all else, Diann was devoted to her children and took great pride in her family. She is survived by her children, William (Theresa) Kropp, Michelle (Joe) Verrett, Roxann Armstrong, Jason (Bernice) Kropp, and Jeremy Kropp. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Travis, Desiree, Aliva, Shalayne, Taylor, Kalea, Whitney, Keaton, JJ, Audreonna, Steven, James, and Nichole, along with 23 great-grandchildren who brought her much joy. She is also survived by her sister, Sandra Ripperdan, and many nieces and nephews who will remember her with love and affection.

Diann is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Kropp, her parents, William and Phyllis Truax, brother, Gene Patterson, and sister, Judy Sweet.

Those who knew Diann will remember her as a kind, thoughtful, and loving woman whose life was centered on family, hard work, and quiet strength. She touched the lives of many through her steady devotion, her generous heart, and the care she showed to others. Her memory will remain a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Edwards Township Cemetery in West Branch, MI.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com