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Robert Stephen Topf

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San Jose State University University of Colorado

Robert Topf Obituary

Robert Stephen Topf
August 27, 1951 - March 29, 2013
Resident of Coconut Creek, FL
Robert Stephen Topf completed his earthly journey on March 29, 2013 at his home in Coconut Creek, Florida. He was 61 years old.
Diagnosed in January 2013 with Stage Four Cancer, the disease progressed very quickly.
Robert was born in New York. He lived and grew up in the Bronx, before moving to Orangeburg to attend Tappan Zee High. Robert continued his studies at University of Colorado in Boulder, and received his Master's Degree In Psychology and Education Leadership at San Jose State University.
Robert worked as an Educational Psychologist and Principal in the Oak Grove School District for the last 34 years. He recently retired, in June of 2010.
Prior to retiring, Robert was also a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, Talent Developer and Multicultural Show Producer.
Robert lived in Santa Cruz, CA where he raised his son Jordan Topf and Step Son Dylan Hafertepen. After retiring, he moved to Florida, and most recently to Bogota Columbia, where he joined his partner Rocio Berrio Cartagena, also of Bogota Columbia.
Robert had a great passion for music, education and the arts. He worked alongside many children, families, educators and faculty during his long career in education and encouraged academic excellence through his motto personal best. Advocating and empowering students to find and pursue their passions through the discovery of their own cultural heritage.
A loving father and partner, always supporting, encouraging and advocating for his own family. Robert was in love with life, and was passionate about travel, music, education and the arts. He traveled extensively throughout the world (Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America)- often with son Jordan Topf.
Robert is survived by son Jordan Topf of Brooklyn, New York, Step Son Dylan Hafertepen of San Francisco, CA, former wife, Nancy Topf of Santa Cruz, CA , Mother, Elaine Topf of Coconut Creek Florida, Sisters Donna Larkin (husband Kenny Larkin) of Chester, New York, Debbie Topf (partner Frank Branda) of Teaneck, New Jersey, Nephews Zack Larkin and Justin Larkin, Uncles- Murray Topf (wife Margie) Bethesda, Maryland, Saul Topf (wife Goons) Denmark, Cousins Martin Topf, Neal Topf, Emilly Topf and many other family members and friends, former collegues and students. Father, Herb Topf, preceded Robert in death.
Robert will be missed by many, but remembered by many more.
A Celebration of Robert's life will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2013 2-4pm, at the Pacific Cultural Center. 1307 Seabright Ave., Santa Cruz, CA
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a scholarship fund for : Jordan Topf, 621 Windsor St. Santa Cruz, CA 95062 For information: [email protected]

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Apr. 19, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Topf

17 Entries

Lydia Zepeda Jennings

May 18, 2021

MY FRIEND you brought JOY to many, now rest in LOVE.

Lydia Zepeda Jennings

April 18, 2020

May you rest in love...

Nancy Topf

April 8, 2014

You are missed Robert , and remembered each day.

Heejoo Ko

April 7, 2014

Mr. Topf was my principal at Parkview Elementary, and above any other educator in my life, he made a real difference. He had a natural ability to make connections with his students and lift them to do the best they could, and that is a rare and valuable talent. I would not have been able to achieve at this level or even at close to this level without his encouragement years ago. Thank you, Mr. Topf, for celebrating differences and teaching your students to reach for the stars. I wish I could have connected with you sooner before it was too late. Rest in peace.

Norma Flores

March 7, 2014

RIP my dear friend.

Norma Flores

March 7, 2014

I am extremely sad to hear of Robert's passing. He was a magnificent person. I met him in Santa Cruz in the 80s and recently found him on facebook. He will be sorely missed.

Margaret Crossland

December 3, 2013

I was so sad to hear of Robert's passing! My condolences go out to his family...

Monika Steinborn-Rose

November 3, 2013

Thank you Mr. Topf for your soulful presence at Frost Elementary. You understood my son, Trevor, and provided encouragement for us all.

ROBIN Acero

September 18, 2013

Roberto, I just moved back to Santa Cruz and was looking for you on FB. I had no idea.. You were such a warm, caring and fun friend. The light and energy in you and your home was always so healing to me. You know you truly touched my heart and soul, I will miss you dearly. I know you are above with your tambourines and maracas. Love you my friend! Mariah

June 12, 2013

My friend, my roommate for 7 years and my mentor! I don't know about the rest of you, but as far as I'm concerned Roberto (aka "Doc") is very much alive in spirit and in my heart!
Dirk

Dawn Sacco

May 31, 2013

Mr. Topf was principal at Edenview when my daughter was 6th grade president. He always encouraged her to do her personal best and would do his best to help her achieve her goals. I was happy when he and Jenna reconnected on Facebook after so many years (she graduated from Edenview in 1998). Condolences to his family and friends.

Betty Spicher

April 27, 2013

I worked with Robert on the team of School Psychologists in Oak Grove district from 1980 until I retired. He was a bright man and worked very hard to help children. I last saw him a few years ago and am saddened to hear of his passing.

Carik Bish

April 21, 2013

I worked with Rober a Stipe Elementary as he was the school psy. I remember his playing basketball with some students and enjoying their friendship. Then off Robert went trying out "being principal". He did return to counsuling, but once again he was called back to being a principal.

Cydney AbatecolaSan Jose

April 21, 2013

Robert had the amazing ability to build relationships with anyone, anywhere in a moment. He left people feeling uplifted and empowered and differences were celebrated. Principal to my children and friend for a too-short 3 years...our family is forever changed by him. So much love for Robert , his son and stepson, and the rest of his family. He truly left a legacy.

Jeff Bromberg

April 21, 2013

I met Roberto at San Jose State when he was getting his master's degree in school psychology and remained friends with him ever since then. His energy and lust for life was contagious and I loved his parties and his musical productions at his house and beyond. I will miss him a lot. good bye old friend. When I look to the heavens I know that you'll be playing some sweet music up there and organizing a multi-cultural event.

Barbara Bender

April 20, 2013

I worked with Robert at Edenvale School in 1980 and again at Frost at the end of our careers. We retired together in 2010. He was an inspiring young counselor at the beginning of his career and an excellent principal. At Frost, he pulled the parents and children into multicultural and creative ventures. He loved playing basketball with the children in the mornings before school. And he had the largest cheer leading squad ever!!!! We all miss him.

Lydia Jennings

April 20, 2013

Rest in Peace

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