Anne-Marie Francoise (Castonguay) Toporowsky

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Anne Toporowsky, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Anne departed this world on July 6th, 2023, peacefully in her sleep. Her absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives, but her memory will forever be etched in our hearts.

Born in Ottawa, Ontario, on December 25, 1938, Anne's journey of love and joy began. The 6th child born to J Alexandre and Bernadette Castonguay. Anne grew up in Britannia Heights and enjoyed a youth full of friends and family. Her father was a famous portrait photographer in Ottawa and her mother helped him in the studio, until the challenges of raising seven children became a full-time passion for Bernadette. 

On August 8, 1959, she united in marriage with her devoted husband, Alex Toporowsky, and together they embarked on a remarkable journey filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Alex predeceased Anne on January 5th, 2005.

Anne and Alex had three children, Dave (Darlene), Mike (Peggy), and Joanne (Donnie).  They raised them the best way they knew how and all three turned out to be independent and grounded.

In 1974, Anne, Alex and their family embarked on a new chapter, relocating to Edmonton, Alberta, where they established a home in Millwoods filled with, laughter, and shared dreams.

After the passing of Alex, Anne moved to Smithers BC, to be closer to her daughter Joanne and her husband Donnie. She found great comfort and happiness at the Meadows, an extraordinary assisted-living center in Smithers. It was there that she formed cherished friendships, surrounded by a community that enriched her life and brought her joy.

The center’s chef, Chris, always made the most wonderful meals and Anne appreciated the great flavours.

The staff was like family, and she grew to appreciate each and every one.

Joanne and Donnie provided her much love and support, and she could not say enough to voice her appreciation for their loving support.

She still spoke of her friendships from her time in Edmonton (The Jackson’s, the Ozachowski’s and the Dey’s). Anne also had some lifelong friends in Ottawa named Marion Armstrong and Kathy Barrie, plus the Datema’s and Laforest’s from Merivale Gardens.

Anne's zest for life extended beyond her role as a mother and grandmother. She was a creative soul who expressed herself through her artwork, capturing the beauty of the world on canvas. Her paintings were a testament to her keen eye for detail and her ability to find beauty in every stroke of her brush. Later in life, she once again learned to appreciate painting through the help of Martha, at The Meadows

Music was another avenue through which Anne brought joy to others. With her nimble fingers dancing across the keyboard and accordion, she played by ear and filled the air with melodies that resonated deep within the hearts of those fortunate enough to hear her play. Her passion for music was contagious, and she & Alex brought smiles and laughter to countless gatherings with their talent.  Her devotion to her faith was heard through her music and seen in her artwork.

Anne’s love of music was well known throughout the Meadows and her passion of the concerts of Andre Rieu was legendary.  She was often found watching DVDs of Andre and his wonderful orchestras.

Anne's greatest treasure was her family. She was a proud grandmother to eleven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, each one a testament to the love and legacy she leaves behind. Her love will forever be woven into the tapestry of their lives, a source of strength and inspiration as they continue their own journeys. Anne also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Anne had four remaining siblings, Rose, Victor(aka Duke), Marie, Bernadette and one surviving brother-in-Law Edward., She was predeceased by her parents J Alex and Bernadette Castonguay, brother Chuck Castonguay and his wife Marge, brother Alec, brother-in law Bill Mantle, brother-in law Jean-Pierre Patry, brother-in-law John Halliwell, mother-in-law Nettie Toporowsky, brother-in-law Walter and his wife Betty, sister-in-law Ann Panko and her husband Paul Panko.

Anne Toporowsky will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May her spirit guide us, her love embraces us, and her memories bring us solace in the days to come.

A private memorial service will be held in her honor. A family gathering will take place at a later date when Anne will be interred beside her husband at Our Lady Peace Cemetery in Edmonton.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of one’s choice, in memory of Anne.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear."

With love and remembrance,

Joanne, Mike and Dave and the Toporowsky Family

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