Richard A. "Rich" Topp

Richard "Rich" Topp, age 79 of Aitkin and formerly of St. Paul, died peacefully following an extended illness on Saturday afternoon, December 19, 2020, at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids. Richard Allen, the son of Custer and Regina (Demorett) Topp, was born on January 24, 1941, in Union Grove Township, in Meeker County. Following his graduation from Humbolt High School in St. Paul, Rich briefly worked at American Hoist until becoming a longtime St. Paul Fire Fighter and Paramedic and retired after forty-years of service. On March 5, 1999, Rich was united in marriage to Judith "Judy" (Mattson) Platt in Woodbury. After retirement, he and Judy moved to Aitkin, Minnesota, where they enjoyed many memories at the lake. In his younger years, Rich enjoyed racing cars. He was an avid outdoorsman and never missed the chance to go hunting or fishing. He was preceded in death by his parents; and by his brother, Ron Topp. Rich is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Tony (Mary Kay) Topp, Sherri (Dan) McPhillips, Jodi (Scott) Brezniak, Christy (Coby) Erickson, Rick Topp, Bob (Lisa) Topp, Chance Platt and Mike Platt; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; brothers, Ken Topp and Gary (Carole) Topp; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. A Celebration of Rich's Life will be held from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Saturday, July 24, 2021, at the American Legion Post 86, 20 First Avenue N.E., in Aitkin. Arrangements are being completed by Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings.