Andrew "Andy" L. Gropp Obituary (1971 - 2021)

Andrew "Andy" L. Gropp, 49 of Normal, passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 in Normal. Andy's celebration of life service will be held on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 11am at Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home, Bloomington with Pastor Jason Collins officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded. Visitation will be held from 10-11am on Tuesday at the funeral home. The visitation and service will be limited to 50 people and masks will be required for all who attend. Memorials may be made to the family in care of Michele Gropp. Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements. Andy was born on October 13, 1971 to DeAnn Gropp in Bloomington, Illinois. He married Michele Black on April 25, 1992 in Bloomington. He is survived by his Mother, DeAnn (Dennis) Sherman, Delavan, Wisconsin; his loving wife of 28 years; their children, Kayla (Sam) Poli and Tanya Black both of Bloomington; 4 grandchildren, Damian, Mikhail, Silas, Vasili and one grandchild on the way. He is also survived by his 2 step-brothers, Chris Sherman and Chad (Tina) Sherman both of Whitewater, Wisconsin. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Eddadine and Enos Gropp, and cousin Rudy Hawkins. Andy was a graduate of Bloomington High School. He served in the US Marine Corp for 5 years as a Helicopter Structure Mechanic. While serving in the military he was deployed to serve in Desert Storm and he earned his National Defense Service Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal (w/2 Bronze Stars); Sea Service Deployment Ribbon; Meritorious Mast; Certificate of Appreciation; Kuwait Liberation Medal; and Navy Unit Commendation. During his term of service he and his Unit (MCAS Tustin HMH 462 "The Screw Crew") had the honor of being a part of the Nixon burial detail. Following his distinquished military career he worked as a supervisor for Securitas who provided security for ISU and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Bloomington. When Andy wasn't working he enjoyed camping, boating and just spending time with his family. He was a loving son, husband, father, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed by all his family and friends. Online condolences may be made to www.calvertmemorial.com