It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Maureen Topelko on February 14, 2021 at Juravinski Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario. Born and raised in Toronto, Maureen is pre-deceased by mother Katherine, brother Patrick, and beloved Aunt Mary Donovan. She is survived by Roy, husband of 61 years, daughters Katherine (partner Edward) and Karen (partner Jason), grandchildren Sophia and Oscar, sibling Michael, and too many wonderful cousins and friends to mention.
Throughout her life, Maureen enjoyed bringing family and friends together. She loved people and welcomed everyone into her home. Many were lucky beneficiaries of hours spent in the kitchen preparing old family favourites or newly found recipes. She was happiest getting her hands dirty in a garden and had a gift for designing beautiful flower arrangements and outdoor spaces. Maureen had a magical blend of immense creativity and technical skill, which she shared openly with others eager to learn her craft. She cultivated long lasting friendships with her colleagues and clients at the Cambridge Garden Centre, where she was generous with her time and fully committed to finding the “perfect specimens” for every gardener. Plants and pets nourished her soul, and she adored every four-legged friend that came to visit.
The family wishes to thank the dedicated doctors and nurses at the Juravinski Cancer Centre, Juravinski Hospital, the Grand River Hospital and the Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network for their support. We also wish to express our deep gratitude to Maureen’s closest friends for their loving care throughout her courageous battle with cancer.
Cremation has taken place and in keeping with Maureen’s wishes, a memorial is not planned. If desired, messages and tributes may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Maureen’s memory to any animal care or rescue charity would be appreciated. Or you can simply plant a tree and watch it grow; she would love that.
Maureen was an amazing wife, mother and grandmother who loved deeply and unconditionally. Gracious, humble, witty, cheerful, intelligent, hardworking, and oh so brave, she was truly one of a kind. Maureen’s positivity, courage and strength are a legacy and her mantra to live life “one day at a time” an inspiration. Mom, enjoy your rest. You’ve earned it. Thank you, for everything.
Throughout her life, Maureen enjoyed bringing family and friends together. She loved people and welcomed everyone into her home. Many were lucky beneficiaries of hours spent in the kitchen preparing old family favourites or newly found recipes. She was happiest getting her hands dirty in a garden and had a gift for designing beautiful flower arrangements and outdoor spaces. Maureen had a magical blend of immense creativity and technical skill, which she shared openly with others eager to learn her craft. She cultivated long lasting friendships with her colleagues and clients at the Cambridge Garden Centre, where she was generous with her time and fully committed to finding the “perfect specimens” for every gardener. Plants and pets nourished her soul, and she adored every four-legged friend that came to visit.
The family wishes to thank the dedicated doctors and nurses at the Juravinski Cancer Centre, Juravinski Hospital, the Grand River Hospital and the Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network for their support. We also wish to express our deep gratitude to Maureen’s closest friends for their loving care throughout her courageous battle with cancer.
Cremation has taken place and in keeping with Maureen’s wishes, a memorial is not planned. If desired, messages and tributes may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Maureen’s memory to any animal care or rescue charity would be appreciated. Or you can simply plant a tree and watch it grow; she would love that.
Maureen was an amazing wife, mother and grandmother who loved deeply and unconditionally. Gracious, humble, witty, cheerful, intelligent, hardworking, and oh so brave, she was truly one of a kind. Maureen’s positivity, courage and strength are a legacy and her mantra to live life “one day at a time” an inspiration. Mom, enjoy your rest. You’ve earned it. Thank you, for everything.
