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Patricia Alice Topper
 Patricia Alice Topper, 97, of Emmitsburg, departed this life on Wednesday, November 6. A woman of noble character, a mighty force of independence and strength, she lived her life guided by her steadfast commitment to God, family, and community.
Born on December 28, 1926, in Chicago, Pat was the daughter of the late Francis Topper. and Shirley (Goss) Topper. She is reunited with them and her beloved brothers: Francis, John and Michael Topper. She leaves to cherish her memory ten nieces and nephews: Pam, John, Diane (Dave Schmecht), Steve (Kara Alvarez), Susan (Ward Wheeler), Matthew (Cindi), Paul (Ingrid Miller), Christine (John Kalinich), Frank (Chandelle), and Laura (Joseph Costanzo).
A gifted portrait artist and illustrator, Pat used her talents to capture the essence of people, animals, landscapes, and historic moments through various art mediums, favoring oil paint, watercolor, and pastels. Her most celebrated works adorn the walls of Bradley Hall at Mount St. Mary’s and enrich the pages and covers of books published by the National Geographic Society.
Pat completed high school in 1945 at Glenbard Township High School. She studied painting at L’ école de Beaux Art and the Art Institute of Chicago. She earned a BA from Mount St. Mary’s in 1975 and an MS in Library Science from Shippensburg University. Throughout her career, she contributed her skills at Fort Detrick, the Gettysburg Times, the National Geographic Society, and Mount St. Mary’s. However, her most notable calling was as the devoted caregiver for her parents who she adored.
The perpetual artist, Pat observed life through a hand glass to capture details for enjoyment and remembrance. A voracious reader, she continuously studied and acted to better her life and the lives of others. A lover of classical music and a talented pianist and organist, she listened to and played music to raise her mood and the spirits of others. She cherished her dogs and cats as her children, blessing their lives as they blessed hers. Her neighbors and community became an extended family, embodying the sense of mutual care she held dear. She treasured her family with fierce devotion, conveying her life stories to entertain, support and encourage them. Her enduring faith shined brightly for all to witness and unwaveringly carried her to her final breath.
Her written last words convey her life message: I’ve loved, been loved, and am looking forward to the Greatest Love. All else fades in Love’s shadow. – P.A.T. 2024
The family will be interring Pat’s remains at a future time. Online condolences may be made at monahanfuneralhome.com.
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