James "Jim" Topp

1943 - 2025

Northfield, MN - James Jorgen Topp, age 82, of Northfield, MN, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 26th, 2025. In the quiet of those final moments, his steadfast heart and weary body, after years of faithful service, grew tired and could no longer carry him. Jim's story began on June 26, 1943, in Stillwater, MN, where he was welcomed into the world by his parents, Hans and Laura Topp. He grew up in Northfield, carrying the values and spirit of his hometown, and graduated from Northfield High School in 1961, ready to begin the next chapter of his life's journey. Jim worked for several construction and fuel delivery companies where he handled many responsibilities. He began working for Fischer's Construction and moved on to Anabek Construction for a few years before he began working with Wayne Transportation. Jim began working as a driver for Rettinger's Oil as well as Apollo Oil where he remained until retirement. He was known for his dedication to hard work and diligence in making sure it got done the right way! In 1963, Jim married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Janet (Estrem). For 61 beautiful years, they walked life's path side by side; partners in every joy, every challenge, and in the quiet, everyday moments in between. Together, they poured their hearts into building a home filled with love, laughter, and the values of hard work, raising a family that was their greatest pride. Jim had a lifelong passion for classic cars and the joy of wandering through swap meets, where every gleaming fender and polished hood held a story. He never missed a chance to attend a car show, with his favorite being the "Back to the '50s" gathering in Saint Paul-a place where his love for nostalgia truly came alive. Above all, Jim's heart belonged to his family. He often expressed his gratitude with the words, "We are so lucky; we have the best family." Blessed with the gift of gab, Jim could strike up a conversation with anyone, leaving them smiling, laughing, or feeling like an old friend. He found quiet contentment in reading and reflecting through his journal writing. Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 61 years, Janet (née Estrem) Topp, whose compassion and devotion were his constant companion through life's journey. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Jane Valek (Curt), Jeff (Aimee), and Jill (Justin) Metz, and by the six grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy: Will (Hannah) and Avery (Gunnar) Valek; Carson and Ella Topp; Harrison and Elsie Metz; and Graham Greeder; sister-in-law, Beldora Quinell. His life was further enriched by a wide and cherished circle of extended family and dear friends. Jim carried a heart full of joy, finding light and laughter in every community and friendship that shaped his remarkable life. He was preceded in death by his son, John Richard Topp; his loving parents, Laura and Hans Topp; his dear brother, Richard (Dicky) Topp; and his cherished in-laws, Helmer and Elsie Estrem, all of Northfield, MN. Now, Jim rests in eternal peace, joyfully reunited with those he loved and lost-most especially his precious son John, who left this life far too soon. Though they are gone from sight, their presence will forever remain in the hearts of all who loved them. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 2nd from 4:00-7:00 pm at Bierman, Benson and Langehough Funeral Home. Funeral Services for Jim will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 3 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church of Northfield with visitation for one hour prior to the funeral from 10-11AM. Interment will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery of Northfield. Though Jim's earthly journey has ended, the love he gave and the lives he touched will echo through time. His laughter will linger in the stories we tell, his wisdom in the lessons he shared, and his kindness in the way we love one another. As we say goodbye, we carry forward his legacy of gratitude, joy, and deep devotion to family-knowing that while he may be gone from our sight, he will never be gone from our hearts. Arrangements are with the Bierman, Benson, & Langehough Funeral Home of Northfield. www.northfieldfuneral.com