Larry Alvin Topp

On Monday, February 3rd, 2020, Larry Alvin Topp, loving husband and father of four children, passed away in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho, at the age of 70 years old. 

Larry was born in Sandpoint, Idaho March 13th, 1949 to Anne Marie (Jensen) Colpaert and

Cecil Alvin Topp.  In 1979 Larry married the love of his life, Shirley Bertwell.  Together they blended their family of four children, two sons Shane and Mark, and two daughters Vonda and Sheryl, all of whom Larry loved deeply. 

When Larry was a young boy, he enjoyed hunting and fishing in the beautiful outdoors of the Pacific Northwest.  His work history includes running heavy equipment, butchering meat, time as a chef, and working as a meat inspector for the state of Alaska. 

Larry’s passion for working with veterans and people with disabilities was carried out through his community service and several years as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for North West Disability Action Center.  Larry’s love of country was evident through his time of military service in the United States Navy.  He continued his commitment to his county as a lifetime member of the American Legion. 

Not only did Larry serve his country, but he also served Christ as a former Bishop of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  In addition, he was also very artistic.  He expressed his artistic ability within the communities he lived by creating stunning jewelry and hand-carved wood pieces.  Larry was known for his infectious smile, love for Christ, and his kind and compassionate spirit. 

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Cecil Topp, his mother Anne Colpaert, his brother’s, Richard Topp, Richard Rhoades, Robert Rhoads, Dale Tucker, Verlle Tucker, Benney Tucker, and his best friend, Jerry Spade. 

He is survived by his wife Shirley Topp, four children, Shane & (Jodi) Topp, Mark Topp, Vonda Mitchell, Sheryl & (David) Williams, his brothers John & (Anna) Topp, Joseph & (Nancy) Colpaert, Shawn & (Becky) Colpaert, Delvin & (Joyce) Tucker; and his sister Marsha & (Cliff) Aynes.  He is also survived by his close cousin Lavon Huckabay, several other cousins, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.  

Larry’s friends and family are invited to celebrate his life at a funeral service with military honors, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Monday, February 10th, 2020 at 11:00 am.  Bishop Steve Roos will be officiating the service.