William Patrick Cropper Jr., affectionately known as Pat, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, at the age of 83. Pat lived life to the fullest, surrounded by the love and friendship of his close-knit family and many lifelong friends. Born and raised in Maysville, Kentucky, Pat graduated from St. Patrick High School and went on to earn his degree in chemistry from Morehead State University in 1964. His career in the pharmaceutical industry was marked by leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to serving others. Pat proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. Rising from enlisted status to officer, he became a Captain and served as a navigator and weapons systems operator in the F-4 fighter aircraft. He also taught navigation within the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1972. His time in active duty helped pave the way for a successful career in pharmaceutical sales. For 12 years, Pat served as Director of Government Sales at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, managing sales to the military and Veterans Administration and frequently traveling to Germany to support military hospitals. He later became Director of Government and Managed Care Sales for Rugby Pharmaceuticals, serving in that role for five years. He went on to become Vice President of Research Projects at Paco Pharmaceuticals, where he developed a business program focused on packaging for long-term care facilities. Pat also served as a consultant for PAR Pharmaceuticals. Next, he was Chief Operating Officer at Direct Dispensing Incorporated, and then, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BJP & Associates, specializing in government sales, healthcare, and IT. He later served as a sales consultant for Biosciences Corporation. Although Pat officially retired in 2012, he remained active as a strategic consultant with Verdure Sciences from 2004 until his passing. Throughout his career, he built a reputation for excellence in sales management with a focus on government sales, pharmaceutical repackaging, training programs, and specialty markets. In retirement, Pat moved to Louisville, Kentucky, to be closer to family. He quickly became a cherished presence, best known for hosting his beloved annual family Christmas luncheons for the past 20 years—celebrations filled with laughter, good food, and fine wine. A true connoisseur and generous host, Pat was known for his gracious hospitality, warmth, and thoughtful spirit. Pat is survived by his loving siblings: Margaret Campisano (Sam), Helen Prather (Jerry), Leo Cropper (Ingrid), Andy Cropper (Patti), Karen Scales (Doug), and Barbara Brown (Chuck). He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whose lives were deeply touched by his generosity and wisdom: 10 nieces, 4 nephews, 13 great-nieces, 17 great-nephews, 1 great-great-niece, and 2 great-great-nephews. He is also survived by his former wife, Wanda, with whom he shared many meaningful years. Pat was preceded in death by his parents, William P. Cropper Sr. and Mary Estill Cropper, and his nephew, Mike Campisano.

Pat will be remembered for his kindness, unwavering generosity, and the love he extended to all who knew him.  His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, and the memories cherished by his family and friends.

In recongition of Pat's service to the United States military, a graveside service with full military honors will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Patirck Cemetery in Washington, Kentucky.  In the event of inclement weather, the service will be held in the chapel on the cemetery grounds.

Pallbearers will be his newphews: Sam Scales, Jason Cropper, Adam Cropper, Bradley Cropper, Tristyn Patel, and Aiden Mattingly.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Patrick School, located at 318 Limestone Street, Maysville, KY 41056.