Contributions to the tribute of Gary Joseph Toporowski

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Saturday, June 3, 2017

Dear Patti, Jason and Joanne We were so saddened to hear of Gary's passing. we wanted to let you know that our hearts go out to you at this time. Although it has been many years since we have seen each other, we have spoken of your family often. I would run into Gary over at Central Fresh Meat, no doubt buying meat for his famous BBQs . He was always so happy and bubbly. He will be sadly missed by all of you and those that knew him. We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you. May your happy memories of all that you have shared over the years help sustain you and give you a sense of peace. May you feel the love and support of family and friends in the days to come, and may time help heal your hurting hearts. With our deepest and sincere sympathy. Tom, Karen and Blair Anderson

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Esther Cotterell posted a condolence

Saturday, May 20, 2017

I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Gary just over 3 years and it was instantly clear to me what an exuberant, full of life and kind-hearted man he was. I was lucky enough to experience many of G-Top’s glorious meals off the BBQ or out of the Big Green Egg (aka, a lot of meat!!) Between the endless amount of stories, constant laughter and of course a little apricot brandy there was never a dull moment in the Toporowski home. I’m so thankful to have spent some time with him and I will always treasure those memories. With love, Esther

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Thursday, May 18, 2017

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Ronald Binkle donated to HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION OF ONTARIO

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Gone but not forgotten

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Joel & Verity Suntz posted a condolence

Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Toporowski Family, We never met Gary but we have known Jason for over a decade, and Jason's infectious laugh and personality will have been gleaned from his parents influences. We are sorry for your loss and pray for strength for all of you at this time. Joel and Verity

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Ronald Binkle posted a condolence

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

I'm old and my memory is not what it used to be. However I do remember after Gary married my daughter Patti we used to get together in the fall, have a party to celebrate our birthdays and watch the Grey Cup game, good times. I also remember one spring going smelt fishing. The smelt were running good and when Gary put the dip net in the water and pulled it out there were lots of smelt in it. Finally I said to Gary "you know we have to clean all these smelt", then although he loved to fish he decided to quit, good times. We moved up to Lake of the Woods and didn't see each other so often. Patti and Gary came up for a visit and of course we went fishing, that evening we had a good feed of walleye, good times. Gary, you were taken from us much too early, but you left us with lots of great memories.

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Michael Beauchamp posted a condolence

Tuesday, May 16, 2017

My deepest condolences to the Toporowski family.He will surely be missed by all his friends he grew up with.He had the only basketball net and many a game were played in his parents driveway and you always had to watch out for "T"=Tee's hook shot. There was only one season for road hockey, it was a year round thing in Naughton. I have many great memorie's of T, like when we lived out in Edmonton.He will not be forgotten. Good Peace & Health Love & Gratitude

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Joanne Klein posted a condolence

Monday, May 15, 2017

Patti, We have not seen each other for a long time but I was so sad when I heard about Gary and I wanted to let you know that I am thinking about you and your kids at this difficult time. Gary will be missed. Sending you hugs and prayers. Joanne

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Monday, May 15, 2017

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The family of Gary Joseph Toporowski uploaded a photo

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Jennifer Bryan posted a condolence

Monday, May 15, 2017

My family and I are just so sad about losing Uncle Gary. I hadn't seen him in awhile but I have very fond memories of him. I was certain, as a toddler at the age of 3 or 4, that I would marry Uncle Gary some day. He was lots of fun, made me laugh, and brought a lot of energy to our house when he came to visit. Not long after, I was the flower girl in Gary and Patti's wedding, and became aware of how marriages work:) I was really excited when Uncle Gary and Aunty Patti welcomed me to their home in Kitchener (5 hours way from my house) for 2 weeks when I was 12 years old. I remember lots of laugher, going on various adventures, and feeling very fortunate to have such a great family. Uncle Gary put me on the bus home and gave the bus driver a stern lecture about making sure I was taken care of and arrived safely. I picture him now, on some heavenly patio, with my grandma, his mom Murielle, drinking a beer (she, a glass of wine or martini) reminiscing and enjoying a sunny day. Love to Aunty Patti, Jason, Joanne, my family. Best wishes to everyone who was lucky enough to know Uncle Gary.

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NICOLE LAMARINE posted a condolence

Monday, May 15, 2017

Joanne, Ian and Family, It's obvious from the pictures that he certainly enjoyed life to its fullest. I hope the fun memories you had with him continue to put a smile on your faces and a hug in your heart. Nicole

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Dianne Garceau posted a condolence

Monday, May 15, 2017

Patti, I am so saddened to hear of the passing of your husband. I hope you are able to find some measure of comfort with family and friends at this time. My thoughts are with you.

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Chris Osuch posted a condolence

Sunday, May 14, 2017

Topps, I had the pleasure of being your friend for only a short time, but what a time it was. Few people have the ability to be able to captivate an audience with their storytelling, and you had that gift. On top of that you had a contagious laugh which made myself and anyone else in the room laugh equally as hard as you. I enjoyed watching your face light-up when you found some one else's story of interest to you, which was genuine. I will miss story time in the lunch room, talking fantasy football strategy, fishing stories, and giving you a follow up report on adventures in smoking meats. It wont be the same without you Topps, your presence will be deeply missed by all who's hearts you touched. See you on the other side someday, with a boatload of stories to catch up on.

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Sunday, May 14, 2017

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Denise Pelletier posted a condolence

Sunday, May 14, 2017

Although it had been many years since we'd seen each other, I thought of you often dear godchild ....may you rest in peace Gary. Please give your Mom (my dear loving sister Murielle) a big hug from me up in heaven. My deepest sympathies to Johnny, Darlene & Dennis (and their families), and to Patti, Jason & Joanne, your husband & Dad was dearly loved.....ma tante Denise

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Harold and Shirley Dewar posted a condolence

Sunday, May 14, 2017

Dear Patti, Joanne and Jason. As a friend of the Toporowski family for this past 50 years, we are so saddened to hear of Gary's passing. As a child and a young teen, he spent many happy hours with us and our son Clark, and our daughter Cheryl. Gary was always full of good humour and laughter, a cherished member of our family. We will always remember Gary coming to our home when I was making Peroges, and he and I would sit at the kitchen table and enjoy a good feed of peroges and sour cream. We will miss his laughter but will never forget. Love you and will keep you in our prayers. Sincerely: Shirley, Harold, Clark and Cheryl.

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Bob Carter posted a condolence

Sunday, May 14, 2017

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. My deepest sympathies. Bob Carter

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Earl Mac Leod posted a condolence

Saturday, May 13, 2017

Gary had an aura about him that drew people to him .I feel blessed to have been drawn into Gary's world for the past twelve years as a co worker.Growing up I can remember the Readers Digest coming to the house and one of the articles each publication was The Most Unforgettable Character I Ever Met.For me this was Gary Toporowski .These characters enriched lives through humor, wisdom,adventure and affection,possessing a unique regard for humanity.I will miss the story telling and the laughter that each story ended with and the genuine interest that Gary had in my life and family.We will never forget you Gary.R I P Topper

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Kyle Kukac posted a condolence

Saturday, May 13, 2017

The first and only time I met Gary, was a couple of years ago, when we assisted his son, Jason, with his move. Immediately upon introductions, it was clear to me that this was a man I would definitely get along with. His gregarious personality, sense of humour and general ability to “supervise” a move remain unrivaled. It goes without saying that he was taken much too soon and I wish I had had the opportunity to enjoy a cold beer and T-bone steak with him. That day, Jay and I were calling him the Big Dipper and the way he cackled and smiled will never be forgotten. He will always be remembered. With respect and love, Kyle Kukac

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Dietmar Scholz posted a condolence

Saturday, May 13, 2017

Gary was a colleague and friend at the UofG for over 30 years. Early in my career, unreliable old growth chambers were causing a lot of problems in our Dept. and personal grief to me. There were approx. 50 of them, and Gary made it his mission to get them all working properly. It reduced the stress level of my job immensely. I will always be grateful. Over the years we became good friends. We talked a lot about our families. He was always very proud of his children's accomplishments. Jason & Joanne, he boasted about you both often. Patti, he often said what a lucky guy he was being married to you. Joyce and I offer our sympathy & condolences at your loss, and will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. Dietmar & Joyce Scholz.

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Ryan Poechman posted a condolence

Friday, May 12, 2017

G-Top, Topnotch, Gravytrain, Skin, Gary Baby....Topper had many handles around the U of G and he also had a lot of friends. A few of us gathered today at our usual break-time hangout. The memories were endless and much like any conversation with Gary himself, we could have sat there all day with no shortage of stories and laughter. Gary not only had the knack to tell a great story, he also had a seldom found, genuine interest in every single detail of any story you told him. Whether your topic was how you cooked a certain meaty dish, sports, your favourite place to eat or shop, your family or any kind of general knowledge sharing tip, Topper needed to know and often begged "Do tell". Topper loved the bantering back and forth that always happened when there were 3 of more of us around and he would be laughing just as much if he was "givin' it to one of us" or receiving it. The banter was usually about which one of us was the cheapest, our hometown, football pool picks or something stupid that one of us said or did, all of us trying for the upper hand. Gary's wisdom, sense of humour, wealth of information and stories were qualities only exceeded by his deep admiration for his family. As Earl said today, he had never met any of Topper's family but he felt like he knew each of them well. Gary was a great character that will be sadly missed on the U of G campus and I will always smile when I recall memories of him. Sincere condolences to Gary's family. R.I.P. Gary Baby, Pecky. P.S. you still owe us pizza and wings.....we voted on it ;)

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Jason Hardy posted a condolence

Friday, May 12, 2017

One of life's greatest accomplishments is to be considered a good person at the end of your journey. Gary was liked very much by everyone who knew him. He will be missed greatly by myself and everyone with whom he worked.

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Steve Fleischauer posted a condolence

Friday, May 12, 2017

I am very sorry to learn of Gary's passing. He was a wonderful man. I always enjoyed our conversations on campus at the University of Guelph. He will most certainly be missed.

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Dave Gordon posted a condolence

Friday, May 12, 2017

I don't know if Topper ever had an enemy; but if he did they couldn't help liking him anyway.

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Ken Brown posted a condolence

Friday, May 12, 2017

I was saddened to hear of Gary's passing. We shared many escapades on and off campus. Gary was good to hang with. He will be missed. CATFISH BROWN

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Tom Bernier posted a condolence

Friday, May 12, 2017

"Wherever a beautiful soul has been there is a trail of beautiful memories" Patti, to you and your family ..My deepest sympathy. Gary and I work together at the University "will that's what we called it anyway". He was usually the first person I talked to each morning. And in that 25 yrs we shared a great friendship, filled with laughter and story telling.Gary was always in ,when it come to pulling a fast one on the boss and there were many ,"bosses and shenanigans " He made going to work more enjoyable and fun. Gary surely will be remembered and missed. Tom Bernier

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Zohaib Abbas posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Our condolences to the whole family during this difficult time. I am actually the pharmacist/owner of the Shoppers Drug Mart he used to go to for prescriptions, and he was not only extremely cordial to all staff members with a smile on his face, but was always so upbeat that it would cheer everyone up around him! He will definitely be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

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Lig Taurins lit a candle

Thursday, May 11, 2017

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George and Joan Perry posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

We are very sorry to hear about the passing of Gary, I am glad that I got to ride around with him last week and we had a great visit. George

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Diane Brenzil (Bertrand) posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

My condolences to the whole family during this very difficult time. I'll treasure our fun family gatherings with Darlene, Dennis, uncle John, aunt Murielle & Dad (Rolly) singing & playing music until wee hours of the morning. But mostly, I'll miss Gary's joking & contagious laugh. Gone way to soon! love, your cousin Diane

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Sarah posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Hearing about your loss has deeply saddened me, you are in my thoughts. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family. When we lose a loved one here on earth, we gain an angel in heaven that watches over us. May you take comfort in knowing that you have an angel to watch over you now.

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Nicole posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

I know Gary because I was his bank teller. He was such a kind and sweet soul! I loved his passion for life and his family. Just from the stories he told me, I know how much he loved and cherished his kids. I was happy to listen to his stories about his New York trip last year. He told me about the shows they saw, the restaurants they went to and the Macy's day parade! That was for sure a trip of a lifetime for him. Every time he came into the branch I knew it was going to be such a pleasant conversation:) He made me smile as soon as he walked through the door. Looking at his pictures, here, brings a smile to my face. He will be missed. Condolences to his entire family. Patti, your strength and grace amaze me. "Its hard to forget someone who gave you so much to remember"

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Dan Maclachlan posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Topper was a great guy, always happy and full of fun. He had the gift of gab......the kind of person that could have talked to the queen! On a professional level, he kept the University refrigeration systems running smoothly for many years, particularly on the research side. On a personal level, no one here will ever forget him and the laughs he brought us all on a daily basis. This is truly a sad day. But, when I think of Gary, it will always make me smile.

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Tammi Johnson posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

My deepest condolences to the family. Xo

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Kathy Hollis lit a candle

Thursday, May 11, 2017

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Kathy Hollis posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Patti - heartfelt sympathy to you & your family in this difficult time. Hugs

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Rick LeGault posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

So Sorry to hear about the loss of Gary I would like to share 2 of my experiences with him. First, back in the early 90's when my family was on a tight budget Gary came over one day after work on his own time to hook up our new central air. I bought the components and he made it work. Literally took the heat off our budget and our summers ahead. Secondly, I didn't realize it but Gary was apparently a big basketball fan whereas I don't follow it. One day in passing Gary asked me "So what do you think about March Madness", I replied "Is that a Mid-night sale at Walmart of something". We both roared in laughter! Gary will certainly be missed by the University community. Rick LeGault Physical Resources

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Sue Stevenson posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Dear Patti, my thoughts are with you, my deepest condolences to you & your family. Sue Stevenson & family

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Maria Medeiros posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

I cannot even begin to imagine the pain and loss you must feel at this very difficult time. I will pray for strength and courage for you and your family in the times ahead. I am so incredibly blessed to have known Gary and although I didn't known him for very long, it was easy to see instantly that he was a genuinely nice guy... always smiling and never had a bad thing to say about anything or anyone. We always chatted in passing about how fortunate we were to work in a beautiful campus with really great people. Just last week when he saw me carrying a tall stack of cleaning buckets in the rain, he stopped and offered me a ride to a building across campus which most likely was out of his way. That is just the type of guy Gary was...went out of his way to help people. His kindness made him one of the most successful people I know and he definitely had his priorities straight. It was a privilege and an honour to have known him even if it was for a short while. This University and this world has suffered a great loss! God bless.

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Ginette Laforge posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Deepest condolences to all of the Toporowski family. Thoughts and prayers are with you.

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Pek Lee posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Gary is one of the funniest and happiest person that I had the pleasure of meeting through work. He would always have time to chat no matter how busy he is. Like Scott, so true,,there is always a story to be told. My deepest condolences to his family. Pek

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John Bennett posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Toporowski family, Gary had a zest for life and an infectious personality that could light up a room. Any time I visited the house, laughter was inevitable and he made it tough to leave. If you had a problem around the house, G-Top knew how to fix it or was able to fabricate a creative solution. Sent with love & remembrance, Johnny Bennett

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Steve Nyman posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Dear Patti and Family, It was impossible to talk to Gary and not have a laugh and feel better about your day. He was quick with a joke, and could both give and receive banter with the best of them. He frequently spoke passionately about his family and what you meant to him, and was proud of your accomplishments. He always knew where the best deals on AAA beef were, and would always start a great story of his shopping trips with "here's the dealio". He was a friend to all, and he will be missed.

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Scott McWhinney posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Gary will be deeply missed by all of us in the Electrical Shop. Three things were certain when Gary was around - 1) he would have a great story for us that we hadn't heard before 2) at some point the whole place would be laughing and 3) we'd get a full report as to what the best specials were from the flyers that week. He could lift any mood and turn it to joy. One of the best. RIP

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Debby Pitcher (formerly Fradette) posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

My heart aches for you & your family Patti. I have such fond memories of you & Gary & I laughing at the Bank. I will be forever grateful to have shared those laughs & can still hear Gary's voice oh so many years later. You have always had a special place in my heart. Patti you are in my prayers.

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Gerry Bertrand posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

My deepest sympathies to the family. I hadn't seen Gary in a long time but what I remember about him growing up as a kid was his laugh, his great sense of humour and his zest for life.... RIP Gary

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Thursday, May 11, 2017

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Cheryl Bauman posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

I am so sad to hear of the passing of your husband. Keep your memories close. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

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Kim Voelzing posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Dear Patti and family, sending my thoughts, hugs and prayers to you at this time. Gary will be greatly missed by you all. May the memories you have of him remain in your hearts and minds forever. Kim

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Ron Pelletier posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

So saddened and shocked to hear of Gary's passing - I will forever cherish our summer adventure's in Naughton - RIP Gary - I will always remember your infectious laugh. My deepest condolences to uncle Johnny, Darlene & Dennis, to Patti, Jason & Joanne - your son, brother, husband, Dad, my cousin was one great guy!

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Elsie Sharkie posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Patti and Family: My Deepest Sympathy in the Loss of your Husband, Father and Son, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Elsie

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Marie posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

So sorry for your loss. Keep the memories close to your heart. My thoughts are with you all at this sad time.

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Jim Walker posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Sorry for your loss. I had the opportunity to know and work with Gary for many years at the University of Guelph.

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Karen Wilkinson posted a condolence

Thursday, May 11, 2017

Patti and Joanne, So sorry to hear of your loss. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

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Gary Joseph Toporowski

1958 - 2017