Died peacefully surrounded by her family on December 18, 2012 at the age of 89, Mequon, WI. Preceded in death by her loving husband Dr. Nick J. Topetzes, her parents Andromache and Alexander Kalafat and her brother Chris A. Kalafat. Cherished mother of Andrea (Philip) Mann of Bainbridge Island, WA, John (Laurie) Topetzes of River Hills, WI and Sophia Angela (Tom)Strelka of Milwaukee. Adoring Yiayia of Peter and Nick Mann. She was the beloved sister-in-law of Alice Kalafat Hecht, Theone (late George) Topetzes and Audrey (late Dr. Gregory) Topetzes. She is further survived by numerous caring nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and friends throughout the country. Fay was born in Auburn, IN to proud immigrant parents from the Greek island of Koutali who came to America for a better life. She grew up in a happy household in Garrett, IN, graduated from Garrett High School (member of DOK) and from Indiana University with a degree in Accounting"one of a handful of women in her class. She met the love of her life, Nick, while at IU. After working for other companies she joined her father who owned theaters in Indiana and Ohio. After marrying and moving to Milwaukee and raising three children she went to Marquette University and received a teaching certificate and a Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling. She taught business classes at Milwaukee Downer Seminary, Spencerian College and Milwaukee Boys Tech High School. She retired as Guidance Director at West Allis Central High School. She enjoyed immensely working with young people helping them with career choices and solving life's challenges. She held numerous local and national leadership positions. She was the first woman to serve on the Annunciation Church Parish Council; Past District Governor for Districts 12 and 13 with the Daughters of Penelope/AHEPA; received Penelope of the Year Award; President of American Association of University Women-Milwaukee; Board Member of Frank Lloyd Wright Wisconsin. She started/led a Grief Support Group at Annunciation. She served in key volunteer roles for Campus Elementary School PTA, Girl Scouts, University School of Milwaukee, Milwaukee Symphony League, Florentine Opera Club and Water Tower Landmark Trust. Above all she loved being a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. Our Belleview home was open to family, friends, colleagues and her children's friends"many of whom considered her to be a second mother. She was a wonderful cook and loved entertaining regardless of where she lived. Fay and Nick enjoyed playing bridge and being a part of The Hamsters play reading group. A warm, bright, compassionate, caring woman she made everyone feel special and took an interest in their lives. Her zest for life, enthusiasm and positive personality plus her radiant smile could light up a room. She was an ardent follower of her Greek Orthodox faith and a patriotic American. She delighted in sharing her Greek roots and traditions with her family and friends. Music and cultural events"especially opera, theater and ballet"were central to her life. A lifelong piano player she also loved singing and dancing. She enjoyed travel, family vacations, reading and movies. Although she cheered for the Packers, Badgers, Marquette football and basketball teams, she was a Hoosier at heart. She loved fashion and was well-known for wearing a hat. Her children are grateful for the excellent care she received throughout the years from Drs. Scott Jorgensen and Mark Leitschuh whom she admired and respected. A special thank you to the kind staff at Newcastle Place where Fay lived in Independent Living the last several years. Visitation at the Funeral Home Wednseday, December 26, 4:00-8:00 PM. Trisagion 6:30 PM. Visitation at ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH 9400 W. Congress St. Thursday, 10:00-10:30 AM. Funeral service 10:30 AM. Rev. Fr. Angelo Artemas officiating. Burial to follow at Pinelawn Cemetery.If desired, contributions in Fay's memory may be sent to: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church or Dr. Nick and Fay Topetzes Education Fund c/o Greater Milwaukee Foundation 101 West Pleasant Street Suite 210 Milwaukee, WI 53212.Rest in peace Mom. We are grateful for all you and Dad did to enrich our lives. We will miss you. May her memory be eternal.
