Topinka, Arlene Mae (Holsinger)

Arlene Mae (Holsinger) Topinka, 80, of 1310 Maplecrest Dr., Marion, formerly a long time resident of Toddville, went peacefully to be with her Savior Jesus Christ on June 11, 2012, at Northbrook Manor, Cedar Rapids, following a short illness. Memorial Services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, June 16, at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories, Cedar Rapids. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home in Cedar Rapids. Elder Richard Reed from Southeast Church of Christ will officiate.

Arlene's survivors include son, Edward Topinka and wife Linda; daughter, Marjorie Wernett and husband Steven; five grandchildren, Charles Wernett and wife Anne, Pamela Wernett and fiance Puji Samarasinghe, Tonya Verry, Tyrone Schwieger and wife Traci, Tyson Schwieger and partner Emily Heinrich; nine great-grandchildren, Miranda, McKenzee, Drake, Marit, Daige, Max, Ace, Tyus and Trey; sisters-in-law, June Topinka and Betty Holsinger; a host of nieces, nephews, and other family members; and beloved friend and companion, Gene Anderson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John J. Topinka, who died Sept. 7, 2004; her parents; and an older brother, Robert Holsinger.

Arlene, the daughter of Carl Stephen Holsinger and Lois Margaret (Hood) Holsinger, was born Nov. 12, 1931, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Arlene was united in marriage to John J. Topinka on Sept. 2, 1950, in Cedar Rapids. Arlene, with her husband, John, made their home in Toddville for over 50 years.

Arlene retired from the United States Postal Services, serving many years as Toddville's postmaster.

Arlene was a member of Toddville American Legion Post 674, where she and John enjoyed community functions.

Arlene was known as a gracious hostess to friends and family. Her hospitality and great Czech cooking, especially her kolaches, are still remembered. She also was involved with her neighborhood, community and church. Arlene was an accomplished four-harness loom rug weaver and willow basket weaver, generously giving many of her beautiful rugs and unique willow baskets to charities. Arlene was very gifted and talented in numerous unique arts that she taught and shared with her family, friends and community.

Arlene's family would like to express their sincere appreciation and gratitude to all of the caregivers and medical staff at Northbrook Manor Nursing Home, St. Luke's Hospital and St. Luke's Hospice who took care of Arlene. The family of Arlene would also like to express their sincere thankfulness for their caring support and compassion from all friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family of Arlene Mae (Holsinger) Topinka would appreciate memorial contributions to be made in Arlene's name to the Czech & Slovak Museum & Library or the African American Museum of Iowa.

Condolences for the Topinka family can be made online at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.

Published June 14, 2012 in The Gazette