Paul Carl Gropper, Jr.

Paul Carl Gropper, Jr., 64, of Baxter, passed away Friday, October 8, 2021. A Memorial Services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on Thursday, October 14, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather one hour prior to services on Thursday and Wednesday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Nelson – Doran Funeral Home in Brainerd.

Paul was born September 11, 1957, in Perham, the son of Paul, Sr. and Phyllis “Jo” (Cavalier) Gropper. When Paul was in high school, the family needed his help and stepped away from his education to assist his dad with the Bertha Herald. Printing quickly became a passion. He and some friends he met at Bang Printing created Lakes Printing in 1988. He retired from there in 2016. 

Paul’s work ethic and passion for helping others was evident in the numerous service organizations he participated in:  Sertoma, Mid-MN Builder’s Association, Pillager Lions, Chamber, BNI, and Kiwanis. Confidence Learning Center carried a special place in Paul’s heart, and he continually offered it his support.

 Paul started his family later in life – proud to marry his Indian Princess, Melissa “Liza” Jordan. They were blessed with three children and Paul made sure they were properly exposed to Western movies, ALL sports, The Price is Right, and Burger King when mom wasn’t cooking.

Paul will be remembered for his smile – one that was even bigger when he was around his family. Nothing was more important to him than making sure they spent holidays together. He was the glue that kept everyone connected. His heart was big, and he did nothing but share it…and all the sports facts he had at the top of his head.

He will be dearly missed by his wife, of 17 years, Liza; children, Emma, a.ka. Eridian, Mackenzie, and Jason; mom, Phyllis Torgerson; siblings, Kenny (Sherry), Jodi Gropper, Sonja Hofer, Kelli (Wayne) Bolf; nieces and nephews, Josh, Ryan, Amanda, Dale, Andrew, Travis, Samantha, Mathew, and Christopher; many great nieces and nephews; honorary family, Carleen and Leonard Koering's family; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his dad, Paul, Sr. and nephew, Jason Eugene.

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