Allan George TOPHAM

TOPHAM, Allan George: May 19, 1946 - August 17, 2025 With great sadness, we announce the loss of Allan "Al" George Topham, who passed away after a lengthy illness with his wife Valorie by his side on August 17, 2025, in Kelowna, BC, at the age of 79. Al leaves behind his beloved wife of 48 years, Valorie, and many in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Harry, mother Evelyn (née Love), brothers Bruce and Leslie Topham, stepfather John and stepbrother Alan Schaefer, and stepsister Elaine Pronyk. Al was born on May 19, 1946, in Nelson, BC. When he was five, his father passed away and his mother relocated the family to Winnipeg, where he grew up and graduated from Tec Voc High School. In 1970, he moved to Thompson and began a long career as a buyer with INCO (Vale). He eventually earned his professional purchasing certification, spending a time in Guatemala before returning to Thompson, where he worked for 33 years until his retirement. Alongside his career, Al could often be found working many evenings and weekends at the Baaco restaurant he co-owned in Thompson. Greeting friends and customers in the lounge, with his outgoing nature, he became a familiar and welcome presence in the community. Al met Valorie in 1974 when they were both signing up for university courses through Inter-Universities North. They later married in 1977 in Winnipeg. Enjoyable pastimes included fishing, skiing, and golfing. He and Val spent summer weekends at their cabin at Setting Lake and skiing together at Mystery Mountain. He also had a keen interest in the stock market and could happily talk about it with anyone willing to listen. His curiosity extended to many hobbies: he raised honey bees in Thompson, studied geology, and spent countless hours prospecting for minerals with friends in Manitoba and BC. He loved travelling to rock shows across North America and built a collection of specimens from around the world. In 2003, Al and Valorie moved to Kelowna during the wildfires, drawn by the warmer climate. True to his love of nature, Al planted fruit trees in their new yard, ordering ladybugs and praying mantises to keep it healthy. He and Val enjoyed travelling, especially in warm destinations - winters in Arizona, many trips to Las Vegas and cruises to the Caribbean and Hawaii. Al enjoyed the simple pleasures as much as the great adventures, playing cribbage at the local crib club, having coffee and conversation with friends, tending his trees, and simply being with Valorie. To his family and friends he was a source of warmth, laughter, and kindness, and his generous spirit will be deeply missed. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses at Kelowna General Hospital for their care and compassion, especially Dr. Zerkee for her dedication and kindness. Also, to all family and friends who have sent their thoughts and prayers.Donations may be made in Al's memory to a charity of choice. As per his wishes, a cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life may be held at a later date. Details to be announced. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com