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On Monday evening, Philip Henry Topliff, quietly passed away from his earthly life into his Heavenly life.
Phil was a kind, caring, and quiet man, with a firm faith in God. He celebrated his 95th birthday on February 23rd. Family was important to him. He married Charlotte Cole, the love of his life and recently on February 18th – they celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary. Together they raised six of their own children and opened their home to a countless number of foster children.
Phil was a proud Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean War; his oldest and youngest sons both following him in joining the Navy.
He was active in the First Congregational Church, Lebanon, CT and upon moving to Vero Beach, The Community Church of Vero Beach, for many years.
Phil was an auto mechanic by trade, and he instilled the love of tinkering with cars in his four sons.
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Charlotte Cole Topliff; three sons, Mark C. Topliff of New London, CT, Steve H. Topliff of Lisbon, CT, and Harrison F. Topliff of Vero Beach; daughters, Ellen Giordano of Vero Beach and Debra Bartholomew of Providence, Rhode Island; 6 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren.
Phil is predeceased by his son, Richard P. Topliff, sister, Margaret Ellen Thorpe, brother, Hubert Jordan Topliff, and sister, Louise Rose.
In lieu of flowers donations in his name, may be given to the First Congregational Church, 588 Exeter Rd, Lebanon, CT 06249 or VNA Hospice, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, 32960.
Phil was a wonderful man – a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed.
Arrangements by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Michael Powell - Friend
March 10, 2021, 9:00 pm
Harry we are so sorry to get this news. Hope you find comfort in your memories.
Helene and Charlie Jardine - Friends
March 10, 2021, 10:27 pm
To the family of Mr Topliff, our heartfelt sympathy. He was a lovely man, and we know he will be missed.
Marty Powell - Friend
March 11, 2021, 1:38 am
My heart is hurting for the entire Family. He was truly a good man. He always made me feel welcome in his home and treated me like I was just another son. He was always interested in whatever you had to say. He leaves a big hole on earth. For my brother from another mother, I’m always here my friend. ❤️❤️
Dawn & John Drum - acquaintance
March 11, 2021, 2:02 pm
Charlotte and family, I am sorry for the loss of your husband and father. I know it is a blessing at this point but still hurts. I will keep the family in my prayers.
Kenneth Carter - Friend
March 12, 2021, 9:01 pm
Harry no words can express my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Harriet Robb & Amanda Jaynes - Friend
March 13, 2021, 11:58 am
Ellen and family, we are so sorry for your loss. We will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers and that your memories of and with your Dad comfort your hearts as you grieve. May he rest in peace.
Jamie Donahue - Family Friend
March 13, 2021, 12:47 pm
My sympathies to the Toplife family, I grew up next to the Toplife family in Lebanon, Ct and have so many memories playing and interacting with Debbie, Ellen, Harry, Mark, Steve and Ricky. Mrs. Toplife was my mother’s best friend and the Toplife family were a special to me. I hope Mr. Toplife rests in peace. Jamie Donahue
Bert & Rachel Bosse - Friend
March 13, 2021, 9:06 pm
To the entire Topliff Family, Rachel and I offer our condolences on Phil’s passing. Phil was a special person and an exemplary father to his children who I had the privilege of interacting with. I always enjoyed my conversations with him. May the Peace of God be with him and with the family. We will keep him in our prayers. Bert & Rachel Bosse, Franklin, NH
Joyce Hall - Class materials
March 14, 2021, 9:31 pm
Charlotte. My heart goes out to you. One day at a time helped me. May the Lord Bless you and hold you in his arms.