Willie Stroppe - RIP

[toddz69]

Wilie Stroppe passed away Friday evening after a battle with cancer. He was 72. Willie was a frequent attender of the Fabulous Fords Forever Shows at Knotts Berry Farm for many years. My first memories of him were him driving his mother around in a golf cart at the show.

In later years, Willie became more comfortable with his role as an elder statesman in the Bronco community and started attending events around the country, often in the company of his longtime best friend, Joel Silverstein. Thanks to the generosity of Stroppe uber-collector Wayne Schmeeckle, Willie was able to attend many events in recent years, even as he battled medical issues.

Willie was a kind, humble guy who enjoyed sharing his life experiences and stories with Bronco enthusiasts around the country - and he made many friends as a result.

He will definitely be missed!

Todd Z.

 

[Yeller]

Sad day, my condolences to his family and friends.

 

[okie4570]

Fortunate to meet him a few summers ago at Carlisle. RIP and condolences to the family.

 

[ared77]

RIP indeed.

 

[fordfan]

 

[f2502011]

June 2024 has been a tough month as we’ve lost two Bronco racing legends. Parnelli on the 4th and now Willie on the 21st. May they both race in peace.

 

[4WHLFUN]

Wow, first Parnelli and now Willie! had no idea he was ill. Had the pleasure to meet him and listen to the stories at Stroppe 50th in Carlisle. What a gentlemen and ambassador to the bronco and desert racing. He will be missed.

 

[Broncobowsher]

I just met him this past December at the Sanderson Ford event. I have a picture of him with the Duffs.

 

[Scoop]

Very sad. Another one gone.

 

[Jeff10]

Man... sorry to hear about Willie. These days 72 is pretty young to be moving on.

RIP, Willie.

 

[tasker]

We honored him with a moment of silence at the MEB Round Up...God speed Willie

 

[BronCowie]

A great loss to the Bronco community. Rest In Peace Brother!!!