David James Kropp

David James Kropp passed away peacefully with his daughter Kirsten and his loving family by his side on Sunday February 01, 2026. Born on March 23, 1946 in Troy, NY, he was the son of Cora Irene Schumann and Rollin Edward Kropp of Poestenkill, NY. Dave graduated from Averill Park High School and Syracuse University. With a degree in landscape architect and design, his career blended artistry and nature while balancing ecological sensitivity. He worked at firms in Washington DC, Fort Lauderdale FL, Atlanta GA, and Cohoes, NY. His professional journey took him around the globe designing golf courses, resorts, and private estates. Upon his return to the Capital District, Dave made the Historic District of Downtown Troy his home. He enjoyed volunteering, whether as an usher at the Troy Music Hall or contributing to beautification efforts of the Downtown Troy BID. One of Dave’s proudest projects was the design and revitalization of Barker Park, using salvaged window keystones of the former City Hall as a feature design element. In 2016 he was recognized by the Troy BID with the Sammy Spirit Award, given to individuals demonstrating exceptional community spirit and neighbors helping neighbors. In his younger years he participated in long distance charity bicycle rides in Florida to raise money for AIDS research. He enjoyed attending Pride celebrations around the country, acknowledging everyone should feel equally seen, valued, and celebrated. Dave was incredibly proud of being a father to his daughter, Kirsten Kropp. He never missed an Indian Princess camp out, choir concert, theatre performance, birthday party, or school event. He was the most supportive and active dad. In his final years, he navigated the challenges of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, which resulted in a move to the suburbs to live with his daughter Kirsten and daughter-in-law Theresa. His days were spent keeping a close eye on Kirsten and Theresa’s progress in the garden and enjoying homecooked meals. He was affectionately referred to as Poppy to his best canine friends Watson and Oliver, with whom he shared bits of pastries and pizza crust. He looked forward to breakfast outings in Downtown Troy with good friends Peter and Marie, as well as family game nights and holiday gatherings with Theresa’s extended family. Dave will be deeply missed as a father, brother, Poppy, and friend. He will be remembered for his quiet, thoughtful nature and dry sense of humor. He was predeceased in death by his parents, brother Robert Kropp and his wife Margaret, and beloved dogs Tackeon, Bailey, and Sadie. He is survived by his daughter Kirsten, his steadfast caretaker, and her wife Theresa Thibodeau, his sister Dale and her husband Kevin Kronau, and many nieces and nephews. Kirsten would like to thank Ian A. Sherman, DNP of St. Peter’s Neurology for the incredible care and support he offered Dave. In the spring, once the ground thaws and trees and flowers are in bloom, a small private memorial will be held. If you would like to honor Dave’s memory, please plant some flowers or a tree.

David James Kropp

March 23, 1946 - February 1, 2026