Alan H. Toppel, 80, died April 22, 2013.
Born in Tucson, Mr. Toppel grew up in Chicago, Ill. He graduated from the University of Illinois and served in the U.S. Army. While serving in Germany, he married Charlotte Rollin. After he received an honorable discharge, they moved back to Chicago and he completed his master’s degree in hospital administration. He became the hospital administrator of the Rehabilitation Facilities in Chicago and went on to become executive director of the Commission of Accreditation of the Rehabilitation Institute for 27 years. Mr. Toppel was internationally recognized for establishing the foundation that set the standards for all physical rehabilitation nationwide. He later became a teacher. Most recently, he created the “Tucson Welcome Home Parade” on March 31, 2012.
Mr. Toppel is survived by his wife, Charlotte; children, Lori Orlov of Chicago, Ill., Steve (Stephanie) Toppel of Dallas, Texas and Gayle (Jacky) Shemesh of Buffalo Grove, Ill.; and 13 grandchildren.
Services were held at Evergreen Morutary with Rabbi Samuel M. Cohon officiating. Interment followed in the Temple Emanu-El section of Evergreen Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
