John Topalis

John Topalis , 88, of Baytown, passed away at his home on Tuesday, June 19, 2012. John was born June 24, 1923 in New Brittain, Connecticut to Jefferson and Marion Topalis. The family moved to Norwich, Connecticut, where John lived until enlisting in the United States Navy at the age of 16. John was a WWII and Korean War Veteran, proudly serving his country in the Navy and Air Force for over twenty years before retiring in 1962. In 1955, while stationed in Bangor, Maine, John fell in love and married Phyllis Hanscom. In 1968 the couple moved to Deer Park, where John worked for Union Carbide Linde Air Products. ""John T"", as he was known on the lanes, enjoyed league bowling on both men's and mixed teams, a sport in which he excelled.

John is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Peter Topalis, and his sisters; Penelope Androite and Irene McMahon.

John is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Phyllis Topalis of Baytown, daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Bill Brending of Baytown, two brothers; Nicholas Topalis and Gregory Topalis of Norwich, CT, and a sister, Viola Trantalis, also of Norwich, CT. John is also survived by his grandchildren; Deborah Baume and husband Alex of London, England, John Brending and wife Arta of Houston, and great-grandchildren; Trevor, Taylor, Tessa and Trinity Baume all of London England, and many nieces and nephews.

The family wished to give special thanks to the staff of Vitas Hospice, and especially to Kandi, for the exceptional care given to Mr. Topalis.

The family will receive guests on Monday, June 25, 2012 from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Navarre Funeral Home in Baytown. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 26, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. in Houston National VA Cemetery with Chaplain Nehiel Rojas presiding. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gideons International, Baytown Chapter, P.O. Box 723, Baytown, TX 77522 for the purpose of providing Bibles to people around the world.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX 77521 (281) 422-8111.