Edward A. Topper

Edward A. Topper, age 56, of Menomonie, died suddenly on Friday, July 22, 2005.

He was born May 6, 1949, in Chippewa County to Ernest and Elizabeth (Olson) Topper. He graduated in 1967 from Chippewa High School. He worked for Menards, Packerland, and Landy's Meat Packing before building his own business in Colfax, T & T Lumber, which he owned and operated for 20 years. After selling his business, he remained on as a dedicated employee.

He married Carla Wittrock on Aug. 22, 1970, and together they had three children, Jason, Brandon and Adam. The family resided in Colfax until moving to Menomonie where Ed lived out most of the things he dreamed about accomplishing.

Ed was a loving husband for 35 years, dedicated father and grandfather, and had many friends. Ed was always willing to lend a helping hand, even without being asked, and found the good in everyone.

His second love was for his cars, which he was very proud of, and he spent many hours fine tuning.

His last great quest was for a windmill. He spent many years searching until his dream was realized this year. His face just lit up when it would start to turn.

He can't be replaced and he will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Carla, of Menomonie; three sons, Jason (Lynn) of Durand, Brandon (Sheila) of Eau Claire, and Adam (Natalie) of Menomonie; grandchildren, Wyatt and Laura of Durand; siblings, Maxine (David) Zwiefelhofer, Wallace Topper, Llewellyn (Marnine) Topper, Marvin (Judy) Topper, Barb Topper, Ben (Barb) Topper and Anna (Richard) Suvada; numerous nieces and nephews; and other loving relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Randy and Gordon.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Ed was held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 27, 2005, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Cooks Valley, with the Rev. James Arthur officiating. Interment was in Evergreen Cemetery in Colfax.

Sampson-Kastner Funeral Home in Colfax served the family.