Toporowski, Paul David, 55 of Kamloops, British Columbia passed away from pancreatic cancer on March 23rd, 2017 at Kamloops Hospice surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife Melanie and their four sons: Tyler (Laura), Shane, Christopher and Riley. He was predeceased by his father Carl Alexander and father in-law Gilbert Fraser. He will be greatly missed by his mother Stephanie, his brothers: John (Nicole), Steve (Yvonne), Michael and Tom, and sisters: Carla (Ron), Leanna (Gary- deceased) and Annalise. He is also survived by his Mother in-law, Agnes and eight in-laws: Gail, Carver, Terry, Tim, George, Nathalie, Darren, and Elston. His 79 nieces and nephews, and many dear friends and past clients shall fondly remember him.
Paul was affectionately known as “TOPPER” to everyone he met. Paul was born in Fort St. John on January 16th, 1962 and soon moved to Vernon and then Richmond in 1967. He attended James Gilmore Elementary School followed by Vancouver College High School where he excelled at academics, athletics, and leadership. Paul was honored to be chosen as Captain of the Fighting Irish Basketball and Track and Field teams and graduated as Class President in 1980. He was truly a gifted athlete setting many track and field records that stood the test of time for many years.
Paul had various jobs during his formative years: Woodwards Sporting Goods Dept, Hydraulic Shop (heavy duty equipment operator), HY Louie (Longshoreman- driving front-end loaders), and working for his father in the mining business running compactors and bulldozers in Montana and Arizona.
After Langara College (playing basketball), Paul attended SFU with good friends Damian Botteselle and Stewart Bailey. He graduated in 1986 with a Major in Criminology and a Minor in Business. He then completed a practicum at a local law firm and became a stockbroker at Yorkton Securities (and personal assistant to the Chairman of the firm, Mr. Lal Gondi).
Paul met his wife Melanie Fraser in Vancouver, 1988. They were married in 1989 and welcomed their first son, Tyler, in August of 1991. Moving to Kamloops in 1992 they soon welcomed their second son, Shane, in November. In 1993, they opened Toppers Fun Town Amusement Park (previously located in the current Summit Shopping Centre). In September 1994 they had their third son, Christopher.
Paul was a proud member of the Southwest Business Association for a number of years and in 1999, he made a career change and became a successful realtor with RE/MAX. While at RE/MAX, Paul was well- known for his “Talk to Topper” ads and for his presence at Home Shows and Santa Claus parades with his Hummer, Smart Car and $100 dollar bill business cards. He was recognized for his marketing and advertising creativity and was proud to be one of Canada’s top producing realtors. In September of 2000, Paul and Melanie welcomed their fourth son, Riley.
For 13 years, Paul was actively involved with St. Ann’s Academy where he fundraised for the new wing and playground. Paul coached numerous basketball teams at St. Ann’s, Steve Nash Youth Basketball, and Sa-Hali Secondary.
Topper will be remembered by family, friends, business colleagues and everyone he met, as a man of incredible generosity. He was a man of faith, loyalty, honesty and integrity and was so proud to pass these gifts onto his four sons who will continue to emulate his good nature.
His lifelong commitment to his wife and sons will be his true legacy.
Paul will be missed by all who knew him.
Please join us for a Mass and Celebration of Paul’s life on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at 12:00 noon at the Calvary Community Church (1205 Rogers Way, Kamloops, BC).
In lieu of Flowers, please make donations to the BC Cancer Agency at www.pancreascentrebc.ca indicating “dedicated to Pancreas Centre BC” and/or the Kamloops Hospice Association at www.kamloopshospice.com.
62 Tributes
Dearest Melanie, Tyler, Laura, Shane, Christopher, Riley and Family, Our deepest sympathy to you all. Paul was a great man of Faith, energy, integrity, with so much love for his family. He was one of the most kind and generous people I have ever known. I am so thankful to have known him. May God bless you all, Lauraine and Family
My very sincere condolences to you Melanie, Tyler, Shane, Christopher & Riley! Paul was so helpful to me & my children over the 10 years I have spent in Kamloops and I considered him a dear friend. He would always answer my calls with “Who’s your favourite realtor?!” and never failed to be a truly kind and generous man. We did many real estate transactions over the years and he was always looking out for yet another deal for me! His strong & generous spirit will always be with us and I have only to click on my Talk to Topper flashlight to think fondly of him! His life is truly one to be celebrated! With love and much sympathy, Cori Wickes & family
I am so saddened by this news. My deepest condolences goes out to all his family and friends. I have wonderful memories with Paul and his family watching our boys play hockey together. I also appreciated Paul for helping me find a home. Prayers and thoughts go out to the family during this time. Donna Thomson
Melanie & family I am so sorry in the loss of your husband & father he was an man I remember meeting him he was so jolly & happy he will surely be missed by all who knew him hugs from me
A true friend and someone who will always be thought of with a smile. Will miss you big guy..RIP Topper
Topper will be forever be in our hearts. He brought a bolt of fun and laughter to the office every time he walked through the door. We enjoyed working with him for the past 18 years, learning from one another and sharing many stories of our families while raising kids of the same age. Topper adored his family and was proud to share the boys accomplishments. His passion for his career and never ending creativity was a true gift. “Your the Best Topper”
I am so so sorry for you and your family Melanie.. Sending all my love and deepest condolences.
This is sad …what a wonderful man …was able to get to know him through basketball and always enjoyed speaking with him ..his passion when his kids were playing was amazing ..a huge personality in the gyms around town and a pleasure to know. RIP my friend …condolences to the family and friends …
There was no one like Paul. He had the most beautiful and generous soul. He was like the rock everyone could count on, a born leader right from the days we first met in elementary school. We felt lucky to just to be around him. He will be missed terribly. There is a big hole in the world now that he has left us. Our love to all the Toppers. There are no words to express how grateful we are to you all.
My first house purchase was with Topper back in 2000. We looked at over 65 houses for that one purchase. I logged many wonderful hours with Topper, seeing some of the worst houses in town (my budget was very low). Five more house purchases and sales I conducted with Topper over the years. His passion for life, his love for his family, and his dedication to St. Ann’s Academy was apparent in all our interactions. With the deepest sympathies from the Strumecki Family.
We are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Hugs
My most sincere condolences for the loss of your husband and friend, your daddy, your brother, your uncle, so many roles he played, and played them well! He will be missed and not forgotten,Angela
My heart is heavy as I write my deepest condolences to you Melanie, Tyler, Shane, Christopher and Riley. I will never ever forget the kindness that your family have expressed to us over the years. It was truly a pleasure to have worked for Paul for 7 years. He was the best boss an employee could have. I will miss his ever jovial presence. There is simply not a single word to describe the type of man Paul was. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this trying time. He will be truly missed and never forgotten. With our deepest condolences, love the Ozouf Family (Cindy, Cora and Jason)
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Melanie and the boys. Paul was a wonderful man and will be dearly missed by many. We will always remember his big smile and personality.
Sorry to hear of your loss, my Prays are with you. Topper was a very generous and kind gentleman. Some years ago I was in Kamloops with my basketball team from Vernon Secondary School. We went to Toppers Fun Town (Tom was an excellent promoter of the business!). It was wonderful to visit with Paul. Some of the kids on my team came from families who struggled financially. Paul told the kids not to worry about it. Paul made sure that ALL the kids had fun. God bless Paul.
I am so saddened by this news. I knew Paul for many years through real estate dealings, but considered him a good friend. He was always quick with a smile and was well respected for his kindness and integrity. A wonderful and giving man… truly one of a kind. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He will be greatly missed.
My heart is breaking for you and your family. A man full of smiles, goodwill and the kindest, most genuine spirit. He will be fondly thought of in our memories. Hugs to you all. xo
Carmine and I are truly sorry for your loss. Our most heartfelt condolences to you, Melanie and the boys. Paul will be missed and will never be forgotten God rest his soul in peace. ((a warm hug to you and the boys))
Love, Carmine and Joy Bruno
My thoughts and prayers to Melanie and the boys. I grew up as a neighbour to the family and had many pleasant conversations with Paul as a fellow realtor and basketball coach. He will be missed! With deepest sympathies from the Karpiak family.
My thoughts and prayers Melanie for all of you he touched a lot of lives in his journey and now returns to his heavenly home , may Gods Love surround you . You have a special place in my heart Melanie Love you .
I am so saddened by this news. My deepest condolences go out to all his family and friends. I have wonderful memories with Paul from Vancouver College Days. He will be missed at the Home Show. Prayers and thoughts go out to the family during this time. John Coughlan
Topper was more than a realtor, he was a good friend, We will miss him. Melanie, you and “the guys” we’re his whole world!! Our thoughts are with you all. Al and Velma Price
Dear Melanie, Tyler, Shane, Chris, Riley and all the family. I remember meeting Paul and the family at CT . He was one of my favorite customers and i will always remember him. He will be missed for all those fortunate to have met him.
Deepest condolences to you and your family. Reading the messages he was obviously much loved and respected. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I am sorry to hear this. I used to enjoy going to the fun center he operated… Had lots of good memories there.
Topper was truly one of the ‘good guys’. He was a pleasure to deal with, a man with true integrity. The world has not been as bright a place since March 23, 2017. All the best to Paul’s family through this difficult time.
I am so very saddened to hear about the passing of Paul. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
Melanie,Tyler, Shane, Christopher and Riley and Family… Our thoughts are with you all during this time. Paul was such a wonderful man and he will be missed by so many. The Galloway’s (Scott, Lisa, Tyson & Joey)
Dear Melanie Tyler/Laura Shane Christopher Riley and family. Paul was such a warm and kind man. Always took the time to say hello. Our heartfelt condolences to you all with warm hugs.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Melonie And boys !! Paul e Love you very much . Paul was such a help when selling my house he was like one of my sons . We will miss him but will always Love and cherish you Melonie and family We wish God’s Blessings on you !!!
Dear Melanie and family, so very sorry and sad to hear of the passing of such an amazing man. A man of smiles, and a very proud dad who will be deeply missed
by everyone. Met all of you when your boys were in my program and always thoughts of what a beautiful family.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you Melanie and your family.
Dear Melanie and boys, my thoughts and prayers are with you . I remember Paul when he was at VC and then I had the pleasure of getting reacquainted with him and the family when I was principal of St. Ann’s … a terrific man, father and friend to all. So sorry to hear of Paul’s passing . My God bless you all.
Dear Melanie and boys. Sending my sympathy and prayers
and letting you know my heart goes out to you at this time of sadness.
Paul was a great guy and loved and liked by all who met him. I’m so glad I did.
With Deepest Sympathy. May God bless you all.
Dear Melanie, Tyler, Shane, Christopher and Riley,
Reshie, Liam and I send our sincere condolences upon receiving the news that Paul had passed away. We are thinking about you all during this difficult time. We have been neighbors for many years and I recall that as long as I have known Paul, he would always beam with great pride when he spoke of his family. All the best from our family to yours,
Sincerely
Randy, Reshie & Liam Moss
My sincerest condolences to the family. Paul and your family were so welcoming when I brought my family to Kamloops and he will be deeply missed.
Melanie,
Victor, Tayana and I were sad to hear of Paul’s passing. Our thoughts are with you, Riley and your families during this time. Paul was a wonderful and giving soul and we enjoyed our hockey and basketball times with your family.
Regards, Kaylee Church
Always a huge smile and warm heart.
Treated everyone with dignity and will be missed. Condolences to the family, extended family and friends.
Melanie and family Iam so sorry for your loss may god give you strength at this difficult time , my thoughts and prayers are with you
We were shocked to hear of Paul’s passing. Such an amazing man with a sincere and loving soul. He successfully and very quickly sold 4 homes for us. From the first time we met him there was a feeling of trust and sincerity. Like we knew him. I remember him talking about you Melanie and about his boys … how he was so passionate and radiated with love while he talked about his family. I was grateful to finally meet you just a couple of years ago where we had a photo op together. There was another fun moment we shared with “Topper” when he came to list one of our homes. Our dog Harley was barking at “Topper’s” picture on the side of his Hummer. We all laughed together. It’s wonderful moments that we will all treasure. Heaven has another wonderful Angel. May you find peace and comfort in knowing how much of a difference one person could make in so many peoples lives. There will not be enough seats at Paul’s Celebration of Life. Sending Love & Light.
Dear Stephanie, Melanie,Children and all your wonderful family.
Sharing your sadness, and asking God to comfort all of you in your loss.
My deepest sympathy
This morning I celebrated Mass in a chapel near St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome that our Lord Jesus would place Paul’s soul in the place where all of the souls of the Saints abide and keep his memory everlasting! My prayer also the at this time of sorrow and loss that the Holy Spirit comfort Paul’s Mother and his wife, children and the rest of his family and many friends.
With prayerful best wishes,
Most Reverend Ken Nowakowski
Bishop of New Westminster for Ukrainian Catholics in British Columbia & Yukon
Gary and I are so saddened to hear of Paul’s passing. We spend many enjoyable hours off-roading with Paul in search of the perfect piece of property and he was always so keen to go off the beaten path with us! Paul was instrumental in the purchase of our piece of paradise as well as the acquisition of our business. We were always so pleased to see you, Paul and the boys when you came to the store and restaurant. We will be honored to join your family and friends at Paul’s service and know that our thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
with love
Sandy Wilson and Gary Miller
Dear Melanie and family,
There are no words to convey how sorry we were to hear about Paul. We are sending our deepest sympathy and love to all the family at this difficult time.
Debbie & Harvey Allyn, Saskatoon Saskatchewan
Thoughts of appreciation in knowing Paul and younger brother Tom over many years in the real estate business. Loss of a husband and father is a difficult family experience. Trust your strength & faith will help support you in this time of loss.
Steffi, Leanne and I are profoundly sorry to hear of your loss. Although we cannot be there in person, please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Please extend our condolences.
Love from Roger and Leanne Bates.
Melanie Our thoughts are with you and your family at this most difficult time.
Dear Melanie & family,
We are so very sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. I remember when you moved next door and we met you and Paul and how he always had a smile on his face and was so good to our son. He was truly a great man & touched so many lives over the years. We are deeply saddened that you have lost the love of your life and your boys have lost a great man and father. May your memories help you through this difficult time.
Wendy & Rick Ramsay
To The Toporowski family
We are so sorry for your loss. Our condolences and our thoughts and prayers are with you in this period of grief. We fondly remember meeting Stephanie and Carl at an Oktoberfest feast. Our relationship grew.
Our sympathy and love goes out to you
Lesia and Mike Muzylowski
Melanie,Shane,Tyler,and Christopher we are very sad to hear that you have lost your dear husband and dad.
May you find comfort in memories of special times as a family and also as individuals. Hold these memories gently in your hearts…they are gifts of love that will live on forever within you.
Sincerely, Laurie, Devin and Chloe
My thoughts & prayers go out to you Melanie & your family at this difficult time. Topper was a kind & gentle soul & will be missed dearly.
Dearest Melanie & family
We were so sorry to hear of Paul’s passing…
Keeping you close in our hearts with prayers & love.
Larry and Meladee.
Melanie,Tyler,Shane,Christopher and Riley.
We are holding you all in our thoughts and
Prayers during this time of profound grief.
We are so sad to hear of your loss and hope that the many moments of laughter and love you
All have shared will comfort you, that the tributes from others who have been impacted by Paul’s kind, generous heart will give you strength.
Pslam 34:18 ” the Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit ”
Shelly, Sydney and Alexander Mattis
Dearest Melanie,Tyler,Shane,Riley & family. I am forever grateful to have known this gentle giant of a man we a called “Topper”. I witnessed his kindness, his zest for life and above all, love for his family, almost daily. He showed me how to “Believe in Tomorrow” ! He will be missed . But I know those big shoes will be filled by T-S-C-R !
God bless you all !
John Brownlee
Dearest Stephanie, Melanie and extended family,
Our deepest and heartfelt condolences with your loss. We remember Paul fondly from his younger years in Richmond BC.
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you all!
God Bless!
Ted and Jeannette Panchuk
Melanie,Shane,Tyler,Christopher and Riley, we are very sad to hear that you have lost your dear husband and dad.
May you find comfort in memories of special times as a family and also as individuals. Hold these memories gently in your hearts…they are gifts of love that will live on forever within you.
Sincerely, Laurie, Devin and Chloe
Melanie and the boys,
It’s been a long time since I spent a few summers working at Topper’s, but I think fondly of those times. So sorry to hear of Paul’s early passing. He was a great influence in my life and in the lives of the others who he employed there.
Tyler, So sad to hear of your Dad’s passing. Our prayers are that he is finally at peace looking down on on you all from above. Terry and I want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, Laura and your entire family. God bless…
Dear captain Steve and Yvonne
Mozhe vash brat vidpochynok v sviti
May your brother Rest In Peace
My condolences to you with the passing away of your brother Paul…a sad time for you and your entire family …may his spirit go on with fine memories and strength to embrace the goodness of ones life.
Sincerely your colleague of the airlines Brigitte Knapen also dear friends of Ted and Jeanette Panchuk
Dear Melanie, Tyler, Shane, Christopher, and Riley,
I’m sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Colin
To Melanie, Tyler, Laura, Shane, Christopher and Riley. We are so saddened by the passing of Paul. We remember him as such a happy family man, always wearing a smile. He will be missed by anyone who ever met him. You are in our thought’s and prayers.
Joe, Val, Mark and Christopher and family.
Dear Melanie
We are very saddened to learn of Paul’s passing. His spirit will be truly missed. One of our lasting family memories is about Paul. We would be following the St Ann’s bus home from school everyday and Paul would be at the corner of Summit and Columbia by Toppers Funtown. He would be madly waving at all the kids on the bus and they waving back at him. This is one of our cherished after school memories that we think of every time we follow the St Ann’s bus. Thank you Paul.
Our sympathy goes out to you and your boys
Nancy, Brendan, Liam and Caroline Matthews
Dear Melanie, Tyler, Shane, Christopher & Riley – I too was a client of Paul’s and each and every time we met he beamed with pride as he shared family stories. He taught me many things about business and marketing and it was always with humility. His generosity was bigger than him as I recall he let me drive the smart car for a couple weeks. I truly admired his integrity, kind and patient spirit and his friendship. I consider myself very fortunate to have known Topper. He will be deeply missed. Paul if you could hear this: “thank you for the laughs and friendship buddy 🙂 a big hug from Tanya and I.”