Melisa S. Kropp

Melisa Sue Kropp, 46, of Merrill, passed away with her family by her side, Monday, December 29, 2025, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital after battling cancer for several years.

Melisa was born March 1, 1979, in Merrill, daughter of Michael and Lynda (Kleinschmidt) Kropp. Melisa was baptized on March 24, 1979 and confirmed her faith in Jesus on May 16, 1993. She graduated from Merrill High School with the class of 1997. Melisa had worked at Lincoln Windows and most recently was a customer service agent with Church Mutual Insurance. She had also worked for Krueger Floral in Merrill for several years.

One of Melisa’s biggest passions was traveling. She loved visiting the Smoky Mountains and joked that they were ‘hers’. Her favorite travel companion was her sister, Amanda. She enjoyed being outdoors; camping with the family, fishing with her dad, and searching for the Northern Lights. Her search for a glimpse of the Northern Lights often took her to the Upper Peninsula but also took her as far as Iceland.

Melisa was very artistic and crafty. Her passion was making floral arrangements for weddings and raising flowers in her gardens at home.

Melisa had the biggest heart and a wonderful smile. She was always optimistic and happy. She adored her family and friends and especially enjoyed spoiling her niece, nephew, and Godchildren. Melisa loved her “2 boys”, her dogs Duke and Lenny. They were her best friends and wonderful companions during her cancer journey.

Melisa is survived by her parents, Michael and Lynda Kropp of Merrill; sisters, Amanda Kropp of Merrill and Danielle (Terry) Fuller of Ringle; brother, Mathew (Becky) Kropp of Merrill; niece, Alexis Kropp and nephew, Bentley Kropp both of Merrill; paternal grandfather, LeRoy Kropp of Merrill; several Godchildren; special friend, Dennis Zuelke of Merrill; many cousins, aunts, and uncles; and so many friends she considered her family.

Melisa was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Milton and Vernette (Langhoff) Kleinschmidt; paternal grandmother, Esther Lippert; and several cousins, aunts, and uncles.

The memorial service for Melisa will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, January 9, 2026, at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Merrill. Rev. Neal Behm will officiate. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M., Friday, January 9, 2026, at the church.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations in Melisa’s honor be made to Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church - Merrill, Jessi’s Wish, or Teal 2 Heal who supported her through her cancer journey.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com