Alvina O. Stropp passed away peacefully after a short illness at James River Care Center in Springfield on Tuesday, April 20, 2010. Al as she was known to her friends and family was born October 13, 1916, to William and Agnes Oberste in Hartman, Ark.
She grew up in the Clarksville, Arkansas area and graduated as the Valedictorian of her High School Class. The family moved to Malden, Mo., in the depression days of the 30’s. Alvina started her career there as a hair stylist. There she met the man and love of her life, Ralph Stropp and they married on March 30, 1945, right after World War II. She along with partner Ann Hendricks owned and operated Ann’s Beauty Shop for 52 years until her retirement in 1987. She moved to Springfield to be closer to her son, Mike. She lived at The Montclair Retirement Community until 2006 when she moved to Lakewood Assisted Living because of her declining health.
Al loved people and loved great conversation. She loved her church and was a devout Catholic.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Will and Agnes Oberste; her dear husband, Ralph in 1977; and brothers, Paul, Carl, Ralph, Marcellus and Jerome; plus sisters, Margaret and Philomene Oberste.
She is survived by her son, Michael and wife Jan of Springfield; her sister, Loretta Petry of Ste. Genevieve, Mo.; one niece, Judy Heidledge and family of Columbia, Mo.; three nephews, Dr. Tom Petry and family of St. Louis, Dr. Steve Oberste and family of Atlanta, and Joe P. Connelly of Dallas, Texas.
Al was a woman of great Courage, tremendous Faith, outstanding moral character and the tenacity of a Lion. She loved the game of golf and believe it taught a lot of lessons about life. She instilled it in those around her everyday. Her infectious smile and winning personality will be missed by those who knew and loved her. A very special thanks to the staff in The Montclair, Lakewood Assisted Living and James River Care for making her feel at home. A very special thanks also to Dr. James. T. Rogers MD., who made her feel special as a patient.
Visitation will be from 6 to 7 p.m. on Thursday evening, April 22, in Greenlawn East Funeral Home. Burial will be at 1 p.m., Friday, April 23, at a graveside service in Malden, Mo.