Michael W. Ropka, 79 of Gettysburg, PA, peacefully passed away with his daughter by his side on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at his home.
Born August 14, 1946, in Baltimore, MD, he was the son of the late Albert & Evelyn (Ironmonger) Ropka. He was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Frances Virginia (Chilcoat) Ropka, who died February 23, 2026.
Michael was a veteran of the U.S. Navy serving during the Vietnam War. He served as a Customer Service Representative with the United Postal Service in the Baltimore area for 31 years before his retirement. During his retirement, he worked as a limousine driver for two companies for a total of 13 years.
Michael was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Gettysburg, the National Street Rods Association, and the Liberty Street Rods. He was very proud of his red 1930 Ford Street Rod, which had won over 200 Best in Show trophies at the many car shows he attended during the 19 years he owned the classic car.
Michael is survived by his daughter, Laura M. Staub of Gettysburg, three grandchildren, Connor & Parker Staub and Journey Ropka, five siblings, Carl Ropka (Shirley) of Parkville, MD, Bill Shrievev (Shirley) of Middle River, MD, John Ropka (Karen) of Perry Hall, MD, Albert Ropka, Jr. (Karen) of Randallstown, MD and Betty Ann Ropka of Pimlico, MD, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son, Steven Ropka, and a sister, Linda Woody.
A Memorial Service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 30 Chambersburg St., Gettysburg, PA, on Saturday, June 6, 2025, at noon with Rev. Scott Zimmerer officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment with full military honors provided by the Adams County Allied Veterans will take place at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens at 10:00 AM on June 6, 2026.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Christ Lutheran Church Preschool Scholarship Fund, 30 Chambersburg Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325. The Monahan Funeral Home in Gettysburg is assisting the family with the arrangements. Online tributes and condolences can be made at monahanfuneralhome.com