Andrew Martin Chopp

Andrew Martin Chopp, Sr. 96, of Kalamazoo, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025, at his home.

He was born on November 11, 1928, in Kalamazoo. He was part of the first generation born in the United States to Fred and Mary Chopp of Croatia.

Andy was born in the height of the depression. As a young boy, he picked apples and asparagus in the fields before school, which instilled a great work ethic within him. Andy graduated from Mattawan Consolidated School in 1947 as a three sport (baseball, basketball and football) varsity standout. In 1950, he joined the United States Army to serve in the Korean War until 1952. After his honorable discharge, he then began working at the former K.V.P (which became Brown CO and then James River) until he retired in 1984.

Due to his love of sports, he began coaching. He coached St. John Bosco's boys basketball and youth baseball teams. He never lost his love and passion for sports and continued playing basketball and softball. He was even on a Senior Softball Team well into his 80's! Aside from sports, Andy enjoyed fishing, hunting, playing ring toss, horse shoes, hunting for Morrel Mushrooms, scratch off lottery tickets and camping with his family. He sold flowers at his home for many years and most importantly, he loved picking up and collecting pop cans for deposit return! This was something that drove his family crazy but he was able to take his beloved wife on an unforgettable trip with his savings.

Andy was the youngest of ten children who have all preceded him in death, Albert, Edward, Robert, Victor, Steve, Stanley, Fred, Cresence and Mary. Also preceding Andy were two of his children, Andrew Chopp Jr. and Christina Chopp.

Andy leaves behind his wife of 70 years, Janet (Giddings) Chopp; along with his children, Ron (Diane) Chopp of Paw Paw, Gary (Becky) Chopp of Galesburg, Brenda (Chopp) Beck of Kalamazoo and Dan (Karol) Chopp of Kalamazoo, as well as 16 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Antwerp Activity Center, 24821 Front Street, Mattawan, MI 49071, beginning at 12:00 p.m. There will be a luncheon to follow.

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