Past Chief Kropp was a Life Member of Central Hose Co #4, and a current active member of the Depew Hook & Ladder Co. # 1. Through his dedicated years of service, Past Chief Kropp served in several major roles, including Fire Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, Safety Officer, President, Warden, Trustee, and Company Secretary. Past Chief Kropp commanded the C-Kitchens fire, which is the largest fire to date that the DFD has ever battled. His firefighting experience also assisted him in the field of Code Enforcement, where he served as the Fire Inspector for the Village of Depew for several years.

Prior to his years in the DFD, Dick was a firefighter in the North Java Fire Company for 7 years. Dick was also a founding member and Trustee of the Greater Lancaster Museum of Firefighting. Past Chief Kropp is a veteran of the United States Army, where he started his career in the service of others.

Past Chief Kropp was the epitome of selfless service, dedicating everything he did in life to the service of others. Dick was a role model and mentor, motivating and inspiring countless firefighters still serving our community today. We kindly ask that you please keep the family and friends of Past Chief Kropp in your prayers.

Rest easy, Chief Kropp. We’ll take it from here.