Kirt F. Bopp

Kirt F. Bopp, 75, passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, in an accident while cleaning his windows at home—a task so characteristic of the care and pride he took in everything he touched.  A 36-year resident of Longboat Key, Kirt was well-known especially for his devotion to his wife, Mary Ann, to his Portobello condo community Portobello, and to his church, Christ Church of Longboat Key.

Kirt was born July 3, 1950, in Kirkwood, Missouri, the eldest son of Howard and Patricia (Fox) Bopp. He graduated from Eureka High School, then earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business from Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield, MO.  Upon graduation, Kirt went to work for Bopp Sales, his father’s agricultural equipment supply business. With great success, he oversaw installations and covered regional sales in Missouri and Illinois.

Kirt also worked for his father’s Christmas tree company, a business Howard began as a teenager to help his parents support their large family during the Depression.  This “tree lot” business grew and thrived for 85 years.  Kirt was responsible for live greens decorating for 150 businesses.  Christmas decorating became a passion for Kirt as he watched the company grow.

On March 24, 1984, Kirt married Mary Ann Brundage of Eureka at Kirkwood Presbyterian Church, Kirkwood MO.  Both were in their thirties, and their new family included Mary Ann’s daughters Christine and Michelle. In 1989, Kirt and Mary Ann purchased a Portobello condo (already familiar because Kirt’s parents were among the original residents).  Four years later, with Mary Ann’s job transfer from the second largest U.S. Post Office in St Louis County to the Longboat Key Post Office, the Bopps became permanent residents of Longboat Key.  Kirt worked locally as an insurance salesman, then as a car salesman. In order to spend more time with Mary Ann, Kirt retired at the age of 62. In retirement, the Bopps enjoyed yearly European travel, were passionate about fitness, and were devoted to serving neighbor and church.

Kirt will be remembered for his bright eyes, his ready welcome with a winning smile and a firm handshake, his sense of humor, his servant’s heart, his energetic and cheerful way of serving behind-the-scenes, and his warm hand-written notes. Many friends will recall fishing adventures with Kirt. The Bopps joined Christ Church of Longboat Key in its second year, where Kirt served as lead greeter, usher, and of course, chief Christmas decorator every year. A humble man of faith, he also was ever-present in worship, fellowship events, men’s breakfasts and Bible study.  Kirt was affectionately known as the “Mayor of Portobello” based on his dedication to the care, beauty, and friendliness of Portobello, volunteering for its care and development. In his last week, Kirt planted pots by the pool to welcome those arriving for Season.

Most of all, he will be remembered for his devotion to Mary Ann, the love of his life.  From their daily walks to their weekly Friday night pizza dates to the precious notes they wrote to one another, they were as “in love” in their 41st year of marriage as they were in their first.  Throughout Longboat Key, Kirt and Mary Ann were recognized as “that handsome couple” who walked daily, hand-in-hand, along Gulf of Mexico Drive, In 2019 The Observer featured a story about them, their commitment to fitness, and their enjoyment of one another.

Preceded in death by his beloved parents, Kirt is survived by his wife; daughters Christine (David) Creamer and Michelle (Jim) Coyner; granddaughters Danielle Creamer and Jordan Creamer; great-grandchildren Blake Stelzer, Remi Flackie, Elijah Young, and newborn Jeremy Davis, Jr.; sisters Jill (Matt) Beaven and Joy (Steve) Ridenour; brother Guy (Karen) Bopp; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Informal gatherings to give thanks for Kirt took place on November 24th and December 5th. Those desiring to make a memorial gift are invited to donate to Christ Church of Longboat Key, 6400 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228 (www.ChristChurchofLBK.org).