Thomas W. Topa

Thomas "Tom" W. Topa, age 78, passed away peacefully after a short illness on December 12, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born in Johnson City, New York, to Joseph and Pearl Topa. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Karen E. Topa, sister-in-law, Dottie Topa, and many beloved aunts and uncles from the Kocenko and Topa families.
A proud Johnson City native, Tom graduated from Johnson City High School and attended Broome Technical School. After graduation, he worked at GAF, where he began building the strong work ethic that would define his life. He later served his country in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968, carrying that sense of duty, loyalty, and quiet strength with him always.
Following his military service, Tom dedicated 37 years to the United States Postal Service. He worked in Binghamton and Johnson City before retiring as Postmaster of Chenango Bridge. He took great pride in his work and in serving the communities he called home.
More than anything, Tom was a family man. His greatest joy was time spent with his children, especially the countless moments shared with his son, Blake. Whether fishing, camping, hiking, attending soccer games, or proudly watching Blake earn his brown belt in karate, Tom was always present. He loved family drives and exploring new places, and he had a special passion for old cars, a love he happily passed on through stories. Through these moments, Tom taught his children about patience, curiosity, loyalty, and love.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Topa; his brother, Dick Topa; his children, Blake Topa, Thomas Topa (Jose Lebrom), Keith (Liz) Topa, Kevin (Marsha) Topa, Matthew Topa, and Allyson Topa. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Seth, Ruth, Tristan, and Grayson Topa, and a treasured great-grandfather to Sophia and Henry; mother in law Carol DeFide.
He is also survived by many special cousins and nephews Rick Ulrick and Aiden DeFide; Tom, Keith and Kevin Topa's mother Ann Marie Guthmuller and dear friends, including his close friends from American Legion Post 1305-Kelly, Pete, Kimmy, David, and Kevin-along with many other friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
Tom will be remembered for his steady presence, gentle humor, strong values, and unwavering devotion to family. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he gave so freely. A special Thank You to Eric Phelan PA at UHS Endwell for being there every step of the way.
A Funeral Mass will be offered on Friday, December 19, at 11 am at the Church of the Holy Trinity. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4-7 pm at the Barber Memorial Home, and on Friday at 10 am until the time of the mass. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit our floral store.