TOPPAZZINI, Jerry

TOPPAZZINI, Jerry - (1931-2012) - Beloved husband of Dolly, (predeceased), and Rosemarie (Scarfone). Loving, devoted father of Cheryll (David, predeceased), Anthony (Racheal), Mark (friend, Jo-Ann) and last but not least, Lino. Step father to Francesca Clune (Chris). Proud, adoring Grandpa to Phil (Amber), Julianna and Abigail Toppazzini. Step grandfather to Lauren and Patrick Clune. Also survived by sisters Norma (Matti, predeceased), Delphy (Earl), Zellio (predeceased) (Shirley), and Ted (Shirley) and many nieces and nephews. Jerry was born in Copper Cliff, Ontario. During his professional hockey career he resided in major cities across North America but Sudbury always remained his home. Jerry's hockey career started in St. Catharine's of the OHA in 1948. He graduated to the Hershey Bears of the AHL in 1951 then on to the Boston Bruins in 1952. He stayed with the Bruins organization until 1964. In between he left his mark with the Chicago Blackhawks from 1953 to 1955 and the Detroit Red Wings in the 1955-56 season. His professional accomplishments, awards and trophies are too numerous to mention. Some highlights of his hockey career are the Barrie Flyer Memorial Cup Championship in 1951, his induction into the inaugural Sudbury Kinsmen/House of Kin Sports Celebrity Dinner and Awards Hall of Fame on May 4, 1960, he was the last forward to play goal in an NHL game (Bruins vs. Chicago, October 16, 1960), Jerry was named OHL coach of the year with the Sudbury Wolves in 1976 receiving the Matt Leyden Trophy and bringing the Sudbury Wolves to the Finals for the Memorial Cup. His coaching with the Sudbury Wolves mentored many future NHL players and coaches. To this day Jerry kept in contact with his “hockey family“, some of hockey's greats, past and present. He will always be part of the “Original Six“ legacy. In 1977 Jerry bought the Belvedere Hotel, now the Beef 'n Bird and still family owned and operated. He remains an inspiration to all who walk through our doors. If you asked Dad, his biggest accomplishments were his children and grandchildren. We grew up in a loving, family environment with endless hugs and “I love you“. It's not easy to say good-bye, but because he filled our hearts with love, we can say “So Long“ and know he's not far away. I have written this from a daughter's perspective. As you reflect on Jerry's life and legacy, each one of us will keep a story, a joke and a memory in our hearts forever. And that's exactly what he wanted. A Celebration of Dad's incredible journey, as per his request, will be held at the Beef 'n Bird, 923 Lorne Street, on Sunday, April 29, 2012, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations to Maison Vale Hospice would be appreciated.  Arrangements entrusted to the JACKSON AND BARNARD FUNERAL HOME. To light a memorial candle, donations or messages of condolences available on-line at www.lougheed.org