Mariann Topash - age: 74
( March 28, 1935 to December 03, 2009 )
Niles, MI

Mariann (Volgalsang) Topash, 74, died in Christ at Memorial Hospital of South Bend. Mariann was born in Niles to Carl and Myrtia Volgalsang March 28, 1935. She graduated from Niles High School at age 16. Her devotion to the Lord was shared through her involvement with many community and civic organizations: teaching CCD for 17 years; volunteering for the Catholic Migrant Program; Alter Rosary Society; Catholic Charities; and Boy Scouts Troop 541 in Buchanan. She also loved her church, St. Marks Catholic Church, in Niles. She took pleasure in being a homemaker and a proud mother. She proudly instilled the value of higher education in her chidlren. She worked closely with her husband educating many individuals about the Pokagon Potawatomi culture. The Upper Peninsula had a place in her heart. She is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, James Harley Topash. They married April 16, 1960 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Niles. Together they raised five children: James (Olga) Harley Topash Jr.; Jennifer Topash LeBlanc; Mark Joseph (Trish) Topash; Monica Topash; and Jane (Richard Jr.) Olsen. She is also survived by 20 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; two sisters, Jean Wheeler, of South Bend, and Jay (John) Wilburham, of Swedesburo, N.J. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Myrtia Volgalsang; brother, Fredrick (Buddy) Webster; sister, Charl (Charles) Haas; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She also leaves behind a trusted and dear spiritual mentor, Brother Paul Rosonke C.S.C., of San Antonio, Texas. Per her wishes, a private ceremony will take place at Hoven Funeral Home in Buchanan. A memorial Mass will be held at St. Marks Catholic Church in Niles on Dec. 14 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Marks Catholic Church in Niles, or a charity of your choice.