Linda Lucille Rops

August 25, 1947 - September 2, 2024

Celebration of Life

• Date: September 14, 2024
• Time: 3:00 p.m.
• Note: 4704 Spruce Street Northwood, IA

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Linda Lucille (Eilders) Rops, a strong, loving, and vibrant woman, passed away on September 2, 2024. Born on August 25, 1947, in Waterloo, Iowa, Linda was the beloved wife of Lee Rops, with whom she shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised three children: Mike, Dennis (Mary Ellen), and Sara. Linda was born and raised in Waterloo, Iowa, where she met Lee when she was just 14 years old. They were high school sweethearts, and on March 25, 1966, they began a life together that would take them to various places across the country, including Cincinnati, Ohio; Kalamazoo, Michigan; and Temperance, Michigan. Eventually, they returned to Iowa, living in Ames and West Des Moines before moving to Fort Myers, Florida, where they owned and operated a successful computer business. After retiring, Linda and Lee embraced the RV lifestyle, spending their summers in Northwood, Iowa, and their winters in Destin, Florida. In recent years, they settled in Northwood, Iowa, where they resided on the same property as their son Dennis and his family. Linda was known for her strong opinions, sharp wit, and a heart full of love for her family. She cherished her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother, finding immense joy in the lives of her seven grandchildren—Ashley (Ray) Thompson, Alex (Holly) Rops, Michael Rops, Bethany (David) Smith, Dennis (Ashley) Curry, Nick (Leanna) Rops, and Jontrell (Taylor) Curry. Her ten great-grandchildren—Alexis (Zach), Gabe, Ray, Hailey, Caitlyn, Lucas, Charlotte, Abby, Kingston, and Jett—were her pride and joy. Linda was eagerly anticipating the arrival of her first great-great-granddaughter, Savanna, due on October 30, 2024, and had recently welcomed her newest great-grandson, Jett, who is only a few weeks old. Linda was not only a beloved grandmother to her biological grandchildren but also to many other children who lovingly called her “Grandma.” All of Mary Ellen’s nieces and nephews were fond of Linda and considered her their grandmother as well. Because Lee and Linda lived in their RV, they were affectionately known as “Grandma and Grandpa in the bus.” Linda and Lee shared a decades-long friendship with Mel and Linda Valentine, whom they considered family. The families were so close that their children referred to each other’s parents as aunt and uncle. Linda was also the godmother to Mel and Linda Valentine’s youngest daughter Amanda, as well as her and Lee’s nieces Linda Throckmorton, Susan Martin, and Nancy Murphy, daughters of Lee’s sister Karen. She took this role very seriously throughout their lives. Although Mel preceded Linda in death, Linda Valentine remains a close and cherished friend, residing in Waterloo, Iowa. A devoted dog lover, Linda considered each of her pets a “baby” and cared for them deeply. Her true passion, however, was sewing. Linda was an accomplished quilter, lovingly crafting quilts for every family member, especially for each new baby born into the family. Her love of the color purple was evident in the garments she wore, the cups she drank from, and the décor in her home. Linda also had a fondness for the “Jerry Springer Show,” often joking about getting her “Jerry beads.” Her grandkids would sneak in to watch the show with her, thinking they were getting away with something, much to Linda’s amusement. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Evelyn, and her dear friend Mel Valentine. She is survived by her husband Lee, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her close friend Linda Valentine. Linda also leaves behind her brothers, Terry and Tim, along with several nieces and nephews. In keeping with Linda’s wishes, the family will celebrate her life with a wine and cheese party, rather than a traditional memorial service. This celebration will take place at 3 p.m. on September 14, 2024, at 4704 Spruce Ave in Northwood, Iowa. Linda, an avid wine lover, would have wanted nothing more than for her family and friends to raise a glass in her memory. Flowers and plants, as well as any contributions, may be sent to the same address, where they will be greatly appreciated by the family. Linda will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, laughter, and purple quilts will live on in the hearts of her family forever. Schroeder-Hoff Funeral Home of Northwood is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.schroederfuneralhomes.com