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Randall Topolovec Obituary

Randall Topolovec Our MacGyver Randy found amazing courage to battle liver cancer, yet passed away on February 26, 2007 with his family by his side. Born on February 28, 1951 in Price, Utah to Rudy and Harriet Bacon Topolovec. He married his college sweetheart, Kathy Radakovich, 35 years ago. A man of great integrity with an incredible work ethic, Randy dedicated his life to his profession and own business in both Price and later Salt Lake for more than 40 years. He retired early to give his complete attention to his wife and family while battling cancer. His life was full of success and fulfillment, enjoying the tranquility of their beautiful home and pool, riding motorcycles, fishing, traveling, driving their convertible, continuing his private pilot flying (as "TopRat"), and tinkering on projects. He leaves behind his wife; daughters RaNae (Scott) Schmidt and Stephanie (Kevin) O'Brien; his seven week-old granddaughter Paige Marie O'Brien; sister Sandra (Ron) Kosec; and sister-in-law Kari (Robert) Fowler. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, March 3rd at 3:00 p.m. at St. Thomas More, 3015 East Creek Rd., Sandy, where friends may offer condolences to the family beginning at 2:00 p.m. Arrangements entrusted to Starks Funeral Parlor. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Randy's memory to St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 3015 East Creek Rd., Sandy, UT 84093.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune on Mar. 1, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Randall Topolovec

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Colleen Abraham

March 7, 2007

Dear Mrs. Topolovick, Stephanie, Kevin, Paige, Ranae and Scott,

I do not even know how to begin. When our Kevin moved to The big west we were respective of his decision. But we hoped his experience would, selfishly, be bad so we, selfishly, could have him back home with us. When Kevin announced that he met his princess we again hoped it would be a short courtship. Then came the news that our Kevin was getting married and planned to stay in Utah.
The whole O'Brien clan came out for the big day.
We were first introduced to the Topolovich family and finally understood how Kevin found the one family in the whole rest of the world who could be as wonderful and make someone feel like they belong!!!
The Topolovich family has such an infectious quality that within minutes we no longer felt like outsiders.
I will never forget the infectious life and love between Mr. and Mrs. T. The way the two of them carried on as if they were the only ones in the reception hall. It was as if the wedding was for them not Kev. and Steph.
I left the state reminding myself that I wanted to mold my marriage after those two. If you can't have laughter in your daily life then it is bound for disaster.
We met up again with the Top's in Las Vegas. We spent one full day poolside. Again, we had more fun sitting on the lounge chairs yacking about life than then the rest of the whole vacation.
When we heard about Mr. T's illness my children were devastated. The couldn't fathom that the same man who not only seemed brimming full of energy but someone who got down on their level and made each of them feel important could be ill. I know, as with the suffering and subsequent death of my maternal grandmother that God gave them this journey to help us see how to truley be a hero to the rest of our families. What a role model!!!
I know, as with the passing of important people in my life that although they are not immediately in front of us I feel their spirit on a daily basis.
Mr. T. left a legacy behind that reaches far and wide.
Little Paige does not need to feel slighted in any way. She has something most people could only dream of getting maybe in the form of a million dollar lottery. She has an incredible family and her grandpa's blood flowing through her veins. She also, via photos, is fortunate to see how much she was loved by grandpa T.
Rather than be sad, instead, we must celebrate his life. Our life time on this earth is but a nanosecond compared to the amount of time we will be together in the afterlife. I look forward to seeing Mr. T. again.
Thank you for my opportunity to be a part of your memories.
Your Michigan relatives,
Colleen, Phil, Phil, Amanda, Matt, Dan and Anna O'Abraham

Jack Reynolds

March 6, 2007

Dear Kathy,

I am writing this letter to you hoping it will help me grieve the loss of Randy.
I don’t believe there is anything I can say or do, that would remove the pain you are experiencing. Each of us will find our own way to overcome the loss of Randy.

I don’t remember the first time I met Randy, but my mind still possesses many wonderful memories of time spent with Randy. From my Los Angeles suburb, Randy’s life in Spring Glen, Utah was ideal - just what I dreamed of. A place in the country with horses, cows, a tractor to drive, a garden to tend, a root cellar with potatoes and cabbage, a basement with a pool table, a barn with a hay loft to frolic in, pheasants to spook you when checking the irrigation ditches, a 4x4 pickup with a gun rack in the window, night crawlers to dig from the garden before a fishing trip to Scofield Reservoir, a swing on the porch overlooking the freshly mown lawn, the drive-in movie on Friday, taking the BB gun out back and thinking I was a great white hunter at 10, being able to travel a short distance to fish and hunt ( and actually catch fish). What a remarkable place to experience life and Randy did just that. Randy was living in the most ideal place on earth, and doing what I dreamed.

As Randy’s cousin, I would have the opportunity to fullfill my dreams about once a year. In the fall, our family would gather with The Tops, The Reynolds, The Reeds, etc. for the annual deer hunt in Utah. This event was perhaps the most exciting time of the year for me. Even Christmas ranked below the annual deer hunt. The vivid image even today of Randy, dressed in his bright orange outfit, dancing the polka, smiling and laughing brings a smile to my face. I believe even the deer were looking on and smiling. The next morning standing next to the roaring campfire, excited, waiting to depart for a day of hunting, I can still see the image of Randy surrounded by aspen. As he stoked my excitement with his unique Utah drawl, “ Jackie are you ready to get us a deer, were going to get us a big buck”

In all the years, from the great times on the farm, the times by the campfire in the woods, or the boating on Lake Powell, to the last time I visited in Summer of 06, I have admired Randy and highly valued my relationship with him. His good nature and infectious enthusiasm lives on in part of me still. I loved the person Randy was. He was a good influence and instrumental in building my character. I am thankful to have shared time with him.

Remember the Laughter,

Jack Reynolds

Steve Wilson

March 6, 2007

Kathy and family,
Our deepest sorrow and warmest wishes to you and your family with the passing of Randy. Though our time spent with you and Randy was short, we will never forget the incredible patriarch he was to an incredible family. Our thoughts are with you and all that miss the energy he shared.

Noble & Irene Harris

March 5, 2007

Steph,Kevin
Noble & I send our sympathy to you and your family during this sad time. We love you both.

Steve Reed Family

March 5, 2007

Kathy and family,
We were so saddened to learn of Randy's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love, Steve, Elaine, Jessica, Daniel, Nicholas and Timothy

Barbara METELKO

March 5, 2007

Dear Kathy and family,
We were so sorry to hear about Randy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Anthony and Barbara and family

Kristen Thomas

March 3, 2007

Kathy, RaNae & Steph,

I was shocked and sadden to see the passing of Randy. My deepest sympathy to all of you. The memories came flooding back of a fun & outgoing person Randy was. You have all touched my life and I am so grateful for the time we have spent together.

Love,
Kristen Thomas

Rod Shelton

March 3, 2007

Kathy, Jeanne and I are so sorry for your loss, and even more sorry that we can't be there to celebrate the life of a very special man. He will always live in my memory as the fuel that kept the fire burning. No one had a better work ethic or the desire to achieve the way Randy did. Although we have had very little contact since retirement, that will never diminish the wonderful memories of a great guy. How I miss that laugh. Rod Shelton.

Juanita "Pinky" Alexander

March 3, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of Randy passing over. I do know he is in a wonderful place in heaven and will be with a lot of loved ones. I re-member him as as little tike that the sun rose and set on him. May God give you comfort and peace in the days ahead. My thoughts and payers are with you all. Sandy, i know we will see each other soon and look forward in any way to help you or your loved ones. James and Juanita "Pinky" Alexander.

Shirley O'Brien

March 3, 2007

Dearest Kathy and family,
We, this Michigan O'Brien clan definitely have the 'luck of the Irish'. The proof of that being that our son, Kevin married into the wonderful Topolovec family.

After meeting Stephanie, Kathy, Randy and everyone else, we knew that our son was loved by not only his beautiful wife but also by her family.

Our hearts ache for all of you at this sad time. God must have needed a loving, happy family man. He got the best!!!

We will forever be grateful to Randy for letting us be a part of his family.

Love, The O'Briens, et al

Bill Toni Adam Alex & Ajay Thayn

March 2, 2007

Kathy, Stephanie and ReNae: Our hearts are heavy with sadness for you and the family. Know that Aunt Ellen has him in her arms and she will take good care of him until you meet again. We send you hugs across the miles and wish you God speed through this sorrow. Love your cousins,

Josette Dorius

March 2, 2007

Dear Steph, Kevin and Paige,
I want to extend my warm thoughts and support during this time to each of you and your family. I remember your wedding and what a wonderful opportunity it is was for me to meet your dad. I know that you had a special relationship. Treasure those memories. Stay strong and share those wonderful memories with your sweet Paige as she grows and learns about her grandpa.

Love and prayers,

Josette

Gary & Jan Thayn

March 2, 2007

Dear Kathy & family,
Gary met Randy while working at H&J Supply. I met Randy when he worked at the STC and other local business in Price. Randy was a great person and will be missed.

Amyanne Reggio

March 2, 2007

Dear Steph, Kevin, and Paige:

Matt and I were so sorry to hear about your dad. He was such a wonderful guy with an amazing spirit, even in the face of a very difficult illness. I will always remember him as a funloving, friendly man who danced with such joy at your wedding, was incredibly loving to his family, and was so nice to me (and my crazy dogs). I wish you and your family peace at this difficult time, and please let me know if there is anything I can do.

Much love,

Amy, Matt and Harley

Kris Dennison

March 2, 2007

Kathy, Steph, RaNae, Kevin, Scott and Paige,

We send our prayers and condolences. Oh my gosh, what a wonderful man we knew. We were so lucky to have met him and to have had him grace our lives. A shining star is now with God and he has got to appreciate Randy's immense smile and immense heart. Our tears flow. Our thoughts are with you and how great is it that he saw his granddaughter and that he had you all to love him.

We love you and miss you too!

With thoughts of a great man. Love, Kris, Tricia and Grace

Shawn Rupe

March 2, 2007

I'am very sorry for your loss. Randy was a great person and most of all a great friend. he could lift your spirits up whenever he walked in the room at 100mph with his spiky hair and his flipped up collar or just or a quick phone call. once again i very sorry for your loss and he will be deeply missed.

Niki Nielsen

March 2, 2007

Stephanie, Kevin, Paige, and Topolovec family,
I was so sad to hear of Randy's passing. He was always so much fun to be around. He lived life to the fullest and that was very inspiring.
All my love.

The Mody Family

March 2, 2007

Dear Kathy and Family,
Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences go out to you.
Randy was larger than life and will be fondly remembered by all of us here at Mody. We share your loss and keep you all in our prayers.

Jeff & Sue Reynolds

March 2, 2007

Kathy & Family:

What a wonderful memorial to Randy, the notice and guest book. We were so sorry to learn of Randy's passing. Our thoughts are with you and our deepest sympathy.

Richard,Linda and family Thayn

March 2, 2007

Kathy, So sorry about Randy we've thought about you alot in the past little while. Randy had a moment to enjoy the baby and that is good. He will take those memories with him. May God Bless and care for you and family in this time of need.

Mike, Shawna & Aidan Alaimo

March 2, 2007

Dear Stephanie, Kevin, Paige & Topolovec Family,
Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with you at this time.

Gala Paul Rachele

March 2, 2007

Dear Kathy and girls,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I echo Orlando's remarks. Please take care.

Dennis and Barbara Whitaker

March 1, 2007

Kathy and family, We were very sad to here about Randy's passing. He was a very dear friend to us. We will miss his smile and friendship. We became good friends and we will treasure the times we went out with you and Randy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Sincerely, Dennis and Barbara Whitaker

Donna Geibel

March 1, 2007

Kathy, RaNae & Steph So sorry to hear of your loss. May the love of friends and family help you through this difficult time. We love you all
God bless. (Steven & Elaine Reed's Daughter)

Friends

March 1, 2007

Kathy:

My husband and I saw you and Randy a few times at Market Street Grill. You were sitting so close, a hair couldn't have fit between you. You looked at each other, laughing and talking, as if you two were the only people in the world. Thank you for a glimpse into the intimacy and passion you and Randy shared. We feel your sadness tonight and we wish you and your family a speedy passage through your grief.

Caralyn Staheli Shaw

March 1, 2007

Dear Kathy and family,
Long time no see but I thought I would take this opportunity to write and tell you how sorry I am about Randy's passing. I have a lot of fond memories of you, Randy and the girls. We shared a lot of fun times together in our youth in Price and some summer fun in Schofield. Again, Kathy, I am so sorry for your loss - I know you will miss him terribly.
Caralyn Shaw

Orlando Rachele

March 1, 2007

To my 'other' sister I am saddened to hear of your loss. The short time that I knew Randy he seemed to be a very special person & was a joy to be around. To you, my Aunt Mary, & the rest of your family your cousin 'Orlie' sends you a 'big' hug & as always my love.

Joseph Babbie

March 1, 2007

Mrs. Topolovec & Family,
I am saddened to hear of your loss, even though I did not meet you or your husband, I do know Kevin & Stephanie. Our hearts and our thoughts will be with you and yours. God Bless you in this time of need.

The Babbie Family

Aldo and Bonnie Trombetta

March 1, 2007

Stephanie and Family
Very sorry to get this email, our thoughts are with you. From looking at your online photo album it seems your dad was very full of life and happy to have family near. I am sure he will be missed dearly, yet another reminder to all of us to enjoy every day. From reading other postings one can tell he had a positive influence on many people. Take care. Aldo and Bonnie

Susan (Petersen) Lanford

March 1, 2007

Kathy and Family,
I was saddened to hear that Randy had passed. He was such an amazing person. He always blew into the office with a smile and a greeting. We missed him when he left, and we miss him now.
May God's never ending love surround you and your family at this difficult time

Billie Jean and george Shaver

March 1, 2007

Dearest Cousins
George and I were saddened by the death of Randy. We realize the pain he was in from our conversation on the phone and know that God knew what was best for him.
Amazing He stayed around long enough to see that Baby Girl, Paige, born. That has to be precious to all of you as the baby is also.
We hold you up in prayer and wish for God to Bless you in this time of sorrow.
love
Billie and George

Tarkel Larson

March 1, 2007

Kathy and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss!!! I was thinking about the many outings I took with him. I wish you could see the smile on my face. He was a great guy and he will be missed.
All the very best,
Tarkel Larson

Laura Gray

March 1, 2007

Kathy, RaNae and Stephanie, I am so sorry to hear of Randy's passing. He was a gifted and kind person, and I enjoyed having the honor to meet him and work with him. He will be missed. My heart goes out to you. Regards,

David Pace

March 1, 2007

Randy was a wonderful man and had a great sense of humor. We will all miss him. It is sad to hear about his passing but is good to know that he is no longer suffering from that terrible disease. May the Lord bring peace and blessings to your family.

Judd Hamson

March 1, 2007

Kathy & Family,

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts and prayers of all of us are with you at this time of sorrow. Randy will be missed.

Your Friends at Whitaker Construction.

Chris Tucker

March 1, 2007

Kathy, Stephanie and family - Randy was such an exciting person! I remember when he brought dinner to our group at The Sharing Place. What a guy! My heart is broken for you. Please know my love and prayers are always with you.

March 1, 2007

Kathy, RaNae & Stephanie:
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Jack, Carol & Chris Bonaquisto
Jeremy, Tara & Josie Jewkes

Sam Raby

March 1, 2007

Dear Kathy, Stephanie, RaNae, Kevin, Scott, and Paige.

My deepest heart felt sorrow go out to all of you with the loss of Randy. We had great times together, everytime we met up. I can only wish there were more. Randy's laugh was always contagous. I will truly miss my "BODY GUARD", and "LOOK OUT"! :)

Randy was one strong man enduring this terrible affliction. But he always did it with a positive attitude.

My love to all of you, and you know I will be there for you anytime!!

Sam Raby

Cathy Robb

March 1, 2007

Kathy and girls,
We are very sorry about Randy. He was a wonderful friend. We remember him working at Valley Camp Coal, and you guys visiting your dad in Price. Please know that our prayers are with you all.
Keith and Cathy Robb

Mike Bragdon

March 1, 2007

Kathy & Family:
Very sorry to hear of Randy's passing. Randy was a great guy and will be missed by many. Our prayers are with you at this time.

Mike & Beckey (Montoya) Bragdon

Anndrea Bowers

March 1, 2007

Kathy, RaNae & Steph,
We are so saddened to hear about the passing of Randy. He is such an amazing individual with a wonderful zest for life. He will be sorely missed by all those he touched, including our little family. May you find peace & comfort at this difficult time in the many memories you have of Randy.
Love,
Vu, Anndrea & Ainsley

Justin Cole

March 1, 2007

It's hard to belive that "Topo" wont be busting though the door with his messy hair style going 100 MPH. He will be missed & he was a lot of fun to work with and be around and i am lucky to say that I was able to be in his life. J.C.

Shantell Shelton

March 1, 2007

Kathy & Family,
Randy was a amazing person. I am so glad I had the chace to get to know him, he always had a smile and a great sense of humor. I will deeply miss him. Please know that he was loved by many and will be remembered as a great man!
Much Love,
Shantell

Ron, Lisa, and Buddy Webb

March 1, 2007

Dear Kathy
It was a great pleasure to get reaquainted with you and Randy these last few years. I marveled at the closeness of your family and the fun you two had with the girls.

I am so very sorry for your loss.

RON / EVA PINARELLI

March 1, 2007

Kathy
this took us by surprise. not only did Randy and I do business together, we go way back to the Carbon County days and reminese. We enjoyed the dinner we had with you and him and we won't forget you. Be talking to you Ron & Eva Pinarelli

Ken & Nora Larsen

March 1, 2007

Kathy & family:
Our hearts are heavy and sad to hear of Randy leaving to be with the Lord.As we know your hearts are also grieving at this season of loss.
Our prayers of strength and comfort are with each of you.
Ken & Nora Larsen
Jeremy, Jessica & Ashton Larsen
Mat, Shelley, Ali & Hunter Heath

March 1, 2007

Kathy and Girls,,So sorry about Randy ...It has been quit awhile since you left Helper...but the close ties we have living here,we wanted you to know we cared...Hope God will bless you all...Hope you can remember us Kirk and Jodi Jones Mascaro...Helper,Utah.........

michael thomas

February 28, 2007

Randy was always good to us guys in the shop at I.P.S., He always let you know that he appreciated work you had done for him by taking us to lunch or getting something you needed for a job or just telling us " you guys take good care of me!'he would do anything for anybody !a one of kind . keep your collar up Randy , you were the best ! Mikey

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