Annie “Ann” (Toplinski) Brinkman
Died: March 27, 2014 | Place: Maple View Terrace
Obituary
BRINKMAN, Annie “Ann”…..
Peacefully while reading a good book, at Maple View Terrace on Thursday, March 27, 2014, Annie “Ann” (nee Toplinski ) Brinkman in her 98th year made her transition. Beloved Wife of Ernest “Ernie” Brinkman (2000). Loving Mother of Dennis Brinkman, Lesley Brinkman both of London and John Brinkman and his wife Elaine of Welland. Cherished Grandmother of Debbie, Chris and Adam. Dear Sister of Stephen Topolie (the late Stella). Also will be missed by her nieces, nephews and their families. Annie moved to the beat of a different drummer; was a pioneer for introducing creative educational practices into London Public Schools, such as Yoga instruction and colour therapy for relieving stress and anxiety in young people. Annie was a women who gave her kindness and talents to all those who knew her. A very active participant in music, gardening, homemaking, cooking, sewing and most of all “was there” for her family and dear friends. Never without her jaunty trademark hat and colourful silk scarf; Annie demonstrated elegance and grace wherever she appeared. She will be missed greatly. Friends will be received by the family from 2-5pm on Wednesday, April 2, 2014, at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The celebration of Annie’s life will be held in the funeral home chapel on Thursday, April 3, 2014 at 11 am. Cremation with interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the Hutton House, 654 Wonderland Rd N, London, ON N6H 3E5. Online condolences, memories, and photographs shared www.amgfh.com
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To Dennis, Lesley,John and Elaine,
I am looking at the wonderful picture of your Mom. I met your Mom when your Dad passed away, then I had “breakfast” with her a few years ago at the Idelwyld. She pulled up in her sporty little car wearing a jaunty hat. I think she was in her early 90’s at that time and still full of energy.
I will be thinking of you in the difficult days ahead as you say goodbye to a great lady. You will be comforted by all the precious memories you have of her.
Sincerely, Heather Bedford
Dear Les, Dennis and John: Your mom was truly a unique personality, who offered me many pearls of wisdom from when I was a young teenager, hanging out with Les, right up until I got married at age 42. She was a true free spirit.I will always remember the beautiful wedding shower that Ann and Lesley hostessed in Ann’s backyard. Thanks for the memories and sorry for your loss.
Liz (Morrice) Vallance
Annie you were a wonderful woman & I feel so blessed to have known you. You will be missed by all that knew you. The London Grands will also miss seeing you at their events. Condolences to family and friends…Hope it was a good book.
On behalf of the Pastoral Care Team at First-St. Andrew’s United Church, please accept our condolescences in the loss of a wonderful spirit!
I am sorry for your loss.
Annie, you were an Angel in human form, always present, kind and compassionate.
Your uplifting energy and warm smile will always be treasured in our hearts and memories. Thank you for coming into our lives and enriching them.
Condolences to Annie’s family & friends.
Dear Lesley,Dennis and John
We are so very sorry to hear of Aunt Ann’s passing. I can see her at the farmhouse surrounded by family and sharing memories. A vibrant lady in a big red hat.
She will be missed.
Ann was involved in the Waldorf Education Interest Group when I was in my 20’s and she was in her 50’s and there we became friends. I never felt the age difference at all because Ann was so curious, full of enthusiasm, and positive about life. She is a shining example to me on how to live each day with equanimity and quiet joy.
It is a blessing to have known this remarkable,spunky,warm-hearted woman. Much love, Ann!
what we learned from you:
To see how this bad thing that happened was maybe good and necessary-
whatever is needed will turn up, one way or another-
no reason for despair, ever-
strength comes walking on its own feet-
thanks for your loving lessons,
bless you, whatever your tasks are now and will be
Lesley, Denis, John and families
We are so sorry to hear about your mother’s death. It seems that she lead a very interesting life and had a profound effect on many people throughout her very rich life. Our condolences to all of you.
Our deepest condolences in the loss of your beloved Mother. How lucky you are, John, Dennis and Lesley to have had her loving presence for so long. He life was well-lived and it sounds like she enjoyed all that was important to her. May your many memories of her make you smile…she would like that.
Dear Lesley, Dennis, John, and all your extended family,
We extend our heartfelt sympathy at the passing of your mother.
We met Ann in 1976 at the Waldorf education study group at the home of Donna Huston. Ann soon went on to take Waldorf teacher training at Spring Valley, at the age of 60!!
Ann led workshops in wreath-making for school parents and supported the working group in so many ways.
She always came to school events when she could–to fairs and silent auctions, to which she donated her home-cooked Ukrainian dinners (which we are now so sorry to have missed!) We drove her to the silent auction last November, as she “didn’t like to drive at night,” and sat with her, and she was so generous in her enthusiasm and support.
She was a great supporter of Sunnivue Farm and frequently would zip over there in her little car with her trademark hat. She had breakfast there on the Sunday before she died and was, we are told, positive as always.
What a tremendous attitude! What joy! What infectious enthusiasm! She wanted to share the good books she read and indeed everything that interested her with as many people as possible.
We are so sorry for your loss and will always be grateful for your wonderful mother.
Carol and Merwin Lewis
Ann always amazed me with her happy spirit and good cheer. I remember her expression of happiness whenever I would see her at the farm. I was always so surprised that she would remember me and I loved the red hat; it seemed to reflect her love and inner cheerfulness to the world. Judy Spooner
Dear Lesley, John and Dennis,
I am sorry for your loss. Your mother was a wonderful lady and an inspiration to me.She seemed to lead a life full of intention and was true to herself.
Ann and I became friends about 1991 through a ‘coincidence’ and learned that we shared many common interests. She invited me to a study group at her home and that was it – friends ever since.
She was always up for anything and I always found our conversations interesting and stimulating. One year we took a motor trip together from Kelowna, BC to Vancouver Island. That will always be a wonderful memory for me.
I will miss our long lunches Annie and your wonderful spirit. It was a gift to have known you.
Love,
Susan
To Annie’s Family & Friends~ All my love & kind thoughts are with you now & always. I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Annie 8 years ago when she arrived at my store in Parkhill~ The Currant. We shared many cups of tea & wonderful, wise conversation. I learned many things from Annie, which I am forever grateful for! We also shared many syncronisities, book suggestions & advice! I barely wear black anymore thanks to Dear Annie! She has made her transition. I will miss her so much. She brought so much love & awareness into the world & it will always be remembered & cherished. Her exalted Spirit will live on forever. So much love & gratitude, Angie Richter & Bonnieta Hamilton