Contributions to the tribute of Timothy H. Topper

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John Bonnen posted a condolence

Saturday, March 15, 2025

After a truly terrible experience in my masters degree, I was completely done with the idea of a Ph.D. Friends convinced me to try with Tim. He was so very kind and invested such time and care in both me and all his students - past and present. Afterwards, he remained involved in our lives. So amazing and irreplaceable.

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Carol Liang uploaded photo(s)

Friday, March 14, 2025

Tim was not only my PhD advisor but also a deeply cherished mentor and friend whose impact on my life extends far beyond academics. He generously shared his profound knowledge of fracture mechanics and fatigue, guiding me patiently through intricate theories, effortlessly deriving complex equations from basic principles, and vividly recounting the fascinating evolution of our field. Yet, his mentorship was never limited to theoretical teachings. In the lab, Tim stood by me with unwavering support, providing the guidance and reassurance that helped me gain confidence in my experiments. Tim genuinely cared about my growth, always encouraging me to explore diverse interests and embrace new experiences. His kindness, patience, and wisdom shaped me into a more compassionate and resilient individual. Reflecting on our journey together, I realize how incredibly fortunate I am to have been his student. Tim’s lasting influence will always inspire me, and his memory will be a guiding light throughout my life.

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Scott Walbridge posted a condolence

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Tim was an important role model and mentor in my early research career as a faculty member at Waterloo and more recently in my capacity as a department chair. He was always generous with his knowledge and time. Tim had a number of lifelong friends who were former graduate students of his. This speaks volumes about the impact he had on their lives. I’ve had the opportunity to meet them on several occasions. The best ones featured spouses, kids, bonfires, and fishing for bass in the pond at his cottage. Tim remained very busy throughout his “retirement” and was a fixture on campus until as recently as the past few months. He will be dearly missed by many.

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Rosemary Griffiths pledged to donate to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

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Giovanni Cascante lit a candle

Monday, March 10, 2025

It is indeed sad to hear about Tim's departure. He was truly a great mentor to many of us. I had the privilege of having my office next to his and often had the chance to talk with him, as he continued coming to campus regularly until the last months of his life. Tim lived a long and remarkable life, one that is certainly worth celebrating. Giovanni Cascante

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Donald Burn donated to Grand River Hospital Foundation

Monday, March 10, 2025

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Robert Gracie posted a condolence

Monday, March 10, 2025

Thank you Tim for generously sharing your knowledge and experiences. I very much appreciated our many discussions of fracture mechanics and Brazil. I will miss bumping into you our your walks on campus - R. Gracie

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Ian Smith lit a candle

Monday, March 10, 2025

My condolences to Tim's family. Tim changed my career path. Without his encouragement, I would have never gone to Cambridge, UK. That led to a 43-year job at EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland. He was one of the most intelligent and generous people I have known.

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Norman Dowling donated to Grand River Hospital Foundation

Sunday, March 9, 2025

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Tom Johnson posted a condolence

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Our condolences to the family and friends of Tim. He was a great and brilliant friend and teacher. Diane and Tom Johnson

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Jane Topper Dixon uploaded photo(s)

Friday, March 7, 2025

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Barb Mitchell lit a candle

Friday, March 7, 2025

Steve and I send our heartfelt condolences to the family. May the love you share and the memories you have bring you some solace at this difficult time. May your spirit find comfort in the thoughts and prayers of those who care about you. Much love, Barb & Steve Mitchell

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Jane Topper Dixon uploaded photo(s)

Friday, March 7, 2025