Memo Topitzes

Passed away peacefully Wednesday, November 21, 2012, age 90. Beloved husband of Virginia (Nee Von De Linde). Loving father of Paul (Mari). Loving "Papou" of Allie, Maddie and Mika. Dear brother of Sandra (William) Brown. Brother-in-law of Harriet and Helen Topping, Ray (Carol) Von De Linde and Judy (Jay) Marks. Also loved by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.Agamemnon Vaselios Topitzes, affectionately known as Memo was the youngest of 11 children. He grew up in the grocery business, born above the store he grew up in and would one day come to call his own. Shortly after graduating from high school, he joined the US Army and served in World War II. Returning from his service, Memo picked up where he left off, helping with the family grocery business. He took over the full responsibility of running the store after his mother passed away in 1947. Memo met Virginia in 1952 and they married in 1953 shortly after his father passed away. The couple had one son, Paul. Together they worked at the family store, also serving the community in many other ways. He spoke fluent Greek and Spanish, also learning enough of other languages to hold small conversations with his diverse community. Memo became actively involved in a number of neighborhood projects. Participating on many community committees and boards that were based with-in and played part in the well-being and revitalization of his neighborhood. He received numerous awards for his work as a volunteer, earning him the title of the "Unofficial Mayor of Walkers Point". In 1987 Memo retired, closing the store and spending time with his family.Visitation at the Funeral Home Wednesday, November 28, 4:00-8:00 PM. Trisagion 7:00 PM. Visitation at SAINTS CONSTANTINE AND HELEN GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, 2160 Wauwatosa Avenue, Thursday, November 29, 10:30-11:00 AM. Funeral Service 11:00 AM. Burial Glen Oaks Cemetery.Memo will always be remembered as the kind and thoughtful grocer at Topitzes Grocery on Fourth and National. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the church appreciated."Rest now, Papou, we love you"