Lilly Topolniski

(nee Spreen) (nee Steinberger)

February 18, 1934-March 25, 2023

Peacefully with her family by her side, Lilly (Lily) Topolniski passed away on March 25, 2023 at the Golden West Centennial Lodge, at the age of 89 years.

Lily was predeceased by her husband, Nestor Topolniski, infant son Stewart Lee Steinberger, siblings Hildegard (George), Irma (Guy), Albert, and son-in-law Pete.

Lily is lovingly remembered by her twin sister Elizabeth ; sons, Lance (Suzan) Steinberger, Randy Steinberger, Brad (Angie) Steinberger, and Kenneth (Cindy) Steinberger; her grandchildren Erik , Ashley (Tyler) Nelson, Austin, Shay, Kaitlyn, and Colin; nephew Trevor (Sharon) Carroll, daughters Sarah and Jessica; nephew Martin (Alvina) Spreen, children Connie, Tristan, Mila, and their families.

Lily was born February 18,1934 as Lilly May Spreen, in a farmhouse in Jackfish Lake, St Clements Mb. She was an identical twin to Elizabeth (Betty) Carroll, whom she shared a lifelong bond with throughout their lives.  They were always there for each other.

Lily’s parents, August and Charlotte Spreen passed away when she was very young.  Her Auntie Meta Spreen cared for the children like a mother.

Lily with her siblings attended a one room schoolhouse in Grand Marais.  It was here that she made many life long friends and close relationships with many cousins.

At the young age of 15, Lily moved to the big city of Winnipeg with her sister Irma.  Many trips were taken by train back to Grand Marais for visits.  She found work at the Eatons downtown Catalogue/mail Distribution department. Shortly thereafter her sister Betty and Auntie Meta moved to Winnipeg where the three lived together.  This is where the “Twins” became interested in fashion.  Mom always had a great sense of style.  She was an avid seamstress and made many beautiful clothes. Later she decided she would rather shop for quality pieces. Often she would come home empty handed till she found what she really wanted!  When she shopped you would almost need to run beside her to catch up!  She was so filled with energy! She loved power walking!

In the late fifty’s, she then met her husband Theodore Steinberger and moved to the United States, where they had 5 sons.  Due to Ted’s work, they lived in many locations; North Dakota, New York, North Carolina, and Michigan.  She lived in Montana briefly during their divorce, then returned to Winnipeg with children where they lived with Auntie Meta and received lots of support from her family. Lily was a very strong women and found employment at Key Man, where with hard work and dedication became the area manager of all Key Man stores in Winnipeg.

She then met the love of her life, Nestor Topolniski. They enjoyed travelling and living life to its fullest. Sadly, Nestor passed away too soon.  She would have much support through this difficult time from her family and friends.

Mom’s happiest times were spent with family and friends.  She loved family gatherings and was an amazing cook.  When it was time for turkey, gravy, stuffing, and all the fixings, we would know it would turn out because she was there!  She also made the best pizza, bread, and many other family favorites that we are all still trying to replicate! Mom was also a gifted painter. She was modest in her talents, but her works speak for themselves. After a few lessons, she produced many beautiful paintings.

 Mom most enjoyed the warmth, the love, the hugs, and the laughter that was always present at family events.  She had a great sense of humor and when you least expect it, would have us all laughing uncontrollably!

Mom was always eager to play cards, especially whist, 31, and crib.  She would often be seen with a steaming hot cup of black coffee playing crib or solitaire.

Mom always put family first, helping wherever she could.  No project was too big for her to tackle!   She loved spending time with her sons and families.  She looked after her grandchildren, whom she absolutely cherished and adored.  She gave the best back rubs and really spent quality time with them. Whether it was racing cars on the floor, shooting pucks, playing hockey, dressing Barbie dolls, or cuddling for Storytime.  She was so loved!!   She was filled with much joy to attend her Granddaughter Ashley and Tyler’s wedding in 2017, to have the whole family together for the celebration.

When mom’s health declined, she entered West Man Nursing Home in Virden until she could be reunited with her sister Betty at the Golden West Centennial Lodge in Winnipeg.   Mom and Betty enjoyed many meals together and spent time having coffee (black) and watching CNN.  Mom was blessed to have received great care at both personal care homes.

She will be truly missed, but forever present in our hearts and memories.  We love you Mom, Grandma, Lily.   Rest in Peace.

In accordance with Lilly’s wishes cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10 – 120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB   R3C 4G2 or by phone 204-943-6622 or toll-free at 1-800-378-6699.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

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