David Lester Topper

DAVID LESTER TOPPER was born in Akron, Ohio on August 23, 1937 and passed on April 2, 2022. His parents were Helen Topper (6-25-1917 to 3-17-2009) and Daniel Dockus (2-25-1912 to 7-19-1989). Initially he used his father's name, Dockus, but later was known by his mother's name, Topper. Officially he took the name Topper in 1988.

He was a 1955 graduate of Green Township High School and served 6 years in active duty in the United States Navy. Then, following his honorable discharge, in 1961, he served in the U.S. Navy Reserves. Afterward, he joined American Legion Post 566. He also attended both Akron University and St. John's Seminary.

In Akron, David was the owner of a grocery store and restaurants including Topper Dairy on Kenmore Blvd and Sweet Things at 95 S. Main St., Akron. He also worked as manager of several Avis Truck locations.

In addition to his jobs and businesses, David kept involved in the community serving in volunteer positions for school districts and hospitals, including Akron General Hospital and the Akron Civic Theater. He also served annually as Santa Claus. For David, being of service to his community and to his fellows was always most important, no matter it be in one of the community's hospitals, theater, or schools. He also participated in the community's churches.

David was baptized Catholic as an infant and grew up to become a volunteer usher in the church, as well as a Eucharistic minister. More recently, David was a member of St. Bernard Catholic Church in Akron. He also, at various times, actively participated in other churches including Victory Chapel and First Congregational. On October 25, 2020 he became a member of Lockwood United Methodist Church. Included in his moments of inspiration were his visits to the Shrine of St. Jude (Barberton) and the Miracle House of Rhoda Wise (Canton), and a visit from St. Antoinette (1401-1472, Italy) when he was in great pain at Akron City Hospital. David loved to sing - with choirs and in solo. On occasion he was the featured vocalist either with accompaniment or by karaoke. The Lord's Prayer was one of his favorites.

David was preceded in death by both his parents Helen Topper and Daniel Dockus. He never married and had no children. He considered his friends to be his family, particularly: Don Watson, Ruth Esther Boone, Suzy Phillips, Trisha Cain and his fellow parishioners at the Lockwood Church. David also had very special affection for his little dog, Chucky, whom he often carried in the crook of his arm to restaurants, church services, and elsewhere.

David loved to travel. He visited favorites sites in the United States as well as in Cuba and Germany.

A memorial service of worship is scheduled for Tuesday, April 26, 2022, 11:00 a.m. at the Lockwood Church (3680 Manchester Rd., Coventry Twp). His friends are welcome to arrive an hour before the service, beginning at 10:00, in the church sanctuary. His burial will be at Greenlawn Cemetery, 2580 Romig Rd.