Ida M. Schopp

GARDNER—Ida M. Schopp, 95, of Gardner, passed away peacefully Friday, Aug. 5, 2022 at Heritage Health in Dwight.
Born May 12, 1927 in Lexington, IL, Ida Mae was a daughter of Leo Walter and Dora Susan (Baumgardner) Burke. She was raised and educated in Chenoa, and on Dec. 22, 1945, Ida married Gordon Francis Schopp in Pontiac. Together, Ida and Gordon settled in Gardner in 1955, where they raised their family.
Ida’s employment started at Nationwide Glove Factory in Pontiac, where she earned 45 cents per hour. She later took positions at Ideal Manufacturing in Gardner, where she made baby clothes and then the Coil Factory in Dwight before becoming the Deputy Clerk in Gardner in 1979, where she worked until retiring in 2000.
A dedicated member of the Gardner community, Ida belonged to Church of Hope where she served as a Deacon and Elder, as well as sang in the choir. She was active in the Gardner Beautification Committee, Gardner Legion Auxiliary and the Gardner Lions Club. When her children were young she served as President of the P.T.A. and was also a Scout Leader. Ida was proud to have been the founder of the Gardner Food Pantry at the Church of Hope and remained active until recent years curating the Gardner Archives. Outside of the community she loved so dearly, she was also a member of the Royal Neighbors of America.
Generous and blessed, Ida was constantly crocheting afghans for over 60 years giving nearly every one away. When she saw someone in need, it was always the desire in her heart to meet their need to the best of her ability. Ida truly was a generous and selfless soul.
Some of her favorite pastimes including attending auctions. Ida loved antique dishes, and amongst her vast collection included her countless Jewel Tea dishes. It would also be an understatement to say that Ida loved to garden. Aside from her own meticulous gardens that surrounded her beautiful Victorian home, Ida also created the landscaping and maintained the flowers at Church of Hope for many years. Gardner was proud to have their own Ida Schopp as the Grand Marshall of the Grundy County Corn Festival in 2013, and it was only fitting that her float was adorned with flowers from her own gardens and flower seed packets were handed out, all signed by Ida herself.
One of Ida’s quotes was “Things half done, are never done…”
It is fair to say that Ida Schopp accomplished great things and got a lot done. She did leave this world in a better place because of her acts and deeds. In Matthew 25:23 it is stated: “Well done, good and faithful servant…” Ida Schopp was a faithful and dedicated servant. She helped the poor, served her community well, and strived to preserve the history of others. Gone from our sight, Ida leaves behind a priceless collection of memories and good deeds that will carry on in the hearts of all of those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
Survivors include her children: Gordon Schopp (Lorraine McDonald), of Utah; Evelyn (Dan) Jerbi, of Gardner and Kathy Fredrick, of Minooka; her daughter-in-law, Kay Schopp, of Arizona; 25 wonderful grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, Howard (Emmy) Burke, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Ida was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon on Jan. 18, 2001 and one son, Duane Schopp.
The family will receive friends for a visitation at The Church of Hope, 202 N. Monroe St. in Gardner on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022 between the hours of 5 and 8 p.m. Funeral services will follow Thursday morning, Aug. 11, 2022 at 10 a.m. in the church. Reverend Jan Chandler will officiate.
Burial will be in Braceville Gardner Cemetery, where Ida will be laid to rest with her late husband, Gordon. Her grandsons will act as pallbearers.
Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Ida’s memory to Church of Hope, 202 N. Monroe Street, P.O. Box 248, Gardner, IL 60424.
Family and friends are encouraged to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Ida’s memorial page online through social media.
Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Gardner. www.ReevesFuneral.com.

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