Justin Rops

JUSTIN TROY ROPS was born on September 22, 1997 to Steven (who shares the same birthday as Justin) and Letitia “Tish” (Kalla) Rops in Emporia, Kansas. He was baptized on December 24, 1997 at First Presbyterian Church in Turner County, South Dakota. On that same evening he played the baby Jesus in the church’s Nativity reenactment, though he cried the entire time. Justin grew up in Pipestone and lived his whole life in the community. As a kid he enjoyed participating in 4H, showing many different kinds of animals. He also played basketball, football, and baseball with the PAS Arrows. He graduated from Pipestone High School in 2016. Justin held various jobs, but the job that had the greatest impact on his life was working with students with behavioral difficulties as a paraprofessional at Pipestone ELC. Recently, Justin began going to school online, taking classes at Western Governor's to earn his degree as a Special Education Teacher. Justin passed away at his home on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at the age of 25.

Justin was a member of First Lutheran Church in Pipestone. He enjoyed golfing, listening to music, and participating in fantasy sports. His family also took many special trips to different “big” sporting events. Justin had a million dollar smile. He was an incredibly calm and kind person, caring for others without question. He never judged others, just simply treated them with love. He was patient and humble and had a great love for animals.

Justin is lovingly remembered by his dad, Steve (Heidi) of Ruthton, Minnesota and mom, Tish Kalla of Pipestone; two brothers, Charlie of Rochester, Minnesota and Will of Moorhead, Minnesota; girlfriend, Laura Rudie of Pipestone; his maternal grandma, Peggy Kalla of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; his paternal grandma, Judy Rops of Lennox, South Dakota; and many other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandpa, Arlin Rops and maternal grandpa, Joe Kalla.