John Topp

1940 - 2025

It is with great love and sadness that we announce the passing of John Robert Topp, who was born on May 16, 1940, in Livingston, Montana, and passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, under the compassionate care of Alliance Home Health and Hospice and his loving family.

John spent his childhood between Montana and Washington, where he attended school before returning to Montana and graduating from Belgrade High School in 1958. His early years instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and resilience that would guide him throughout his life. The Yellowstone River and mountain landscapes of Montana gave him a lasting love for the outdoors, storytelling, and community. Many of his fondest childhood memories were spent outdoors with his best friend, Con, exploring, adventuring, and creating stories that would last a lifetime.

While living in Belgrade, John met the love of his life, Vivian Mohl. Together, they built a life filled with devotion, family, and countless memories that will live on through the generations.

John began his career at Yellowstone Pine, which set the foundation for a lifelong dedication to the wood industry. Over the years, he developed a reputation for craftsmanship, reliability, and pride in his work. His hands built more than just wood--they built a life of steady purpose and providing for his family.

Three years ago, John moved to Idaho Falls, Idaho, where he made his home at MorningStar Senior Living. Surrounded by caring staff, neighbors, and frequent visits from family, he spent his final years in comfort, laughter, and companionship.

John will be remembered as a man of kindness, humor, and strong character. He was a gifted storyteller--each time he told a story, it somehow grew richer and more entertaining, leaving everyone smiling and wanting to hear just one more. He cherished his family deeply and filled their lives with love, wisdom, and memories that will be held close forever.

He is survived by his wife, Vivian of Idaho Falls; sister, Sandy Sommerville, WA; son, Michael (Debby) Topp, TN; daughters, Shirley (Simon) Lopez, WA, Jacqueline (Dan) Kennedy, Jody (John Roscoe) Baker, Jamie (Richard) Pope; son, Jerome Mohl, all of Idaho Falls; grandchildren, Bryann (Eric) Halvorsen, Kristin (Aaron) Pease, Brooks (Channelle) Topp, Stephanie (Annah) Welch, Cody (Katie) Welch, Wyatt Welch, Amber Mize, Travis Mize, Jessica (Erik) Ponce, Amanda (Jason) Struhs, Dillon Pope, Tannor Langdon, Brylee Hentila, Trevor Mohl; 20 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild;and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ethel Topp; sisters, Ruth Hansen-Speck and Dorothy Young; brothers-in-law, Leo Young and Gary Sommerville; and great grandson, Tayson Halvorsen.

A private family celebration of John's life is being held.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the MorningStar staff and the compassionate team at Alliance Home Health and Hospice for the love, care, and support they provided to John and his family.

Though deeply missed, John's legacy of love, laughter, and storytelling will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.