Mr. Robert E. Topping, also known as Rob, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026 at the age of 60 in AdventHealth Hospice, Altamonte Springs, Florida. He was born in Woburn, Massachusetts on October 10, 1965, to parents Kenneth Topping Sr. and Sandra A. Nichols, who are now deceased.

Rob was the youngest of 3 siblings. His eldest sister, Debbie Mock, passed away in 2018. He is survived by his brother Kenneth, his niece Angie Whiteside, his nephew Roland Mock, his Aunt Carol Nichols, and many cousins including Ricky, Michael, and Terri Nichols – Karen, Donna, Mark, Steven, and David Adams – Jay, Nick, and Darlene Nichols.

Rob graduated from Chelsea High School in 1984 and worked as manager of Burger King and other fast-food franchises for several years. As restaurant manager, he worked with local organizations like the Easterseals to raise money for disabled children, often appearing in the local newspapers kneeling next to the children who benefited from his fund-raising efforts.

Rob had a passion for cars from childhood, so when he moved to Florida in the early 2000's, he worked for a variety of car dealerships learning the fundamentals of the industry. He started off as a Service Writer, gradually working up to Service Manager and eventually to Service Director. He finally settled into Orlando Volkswagen South in 2010. While there, he excelled and was constantly being offered positions with other dealerships in the Orlando area, often for more pay, but never accepted their offers. He had created a special and unique bond with his team at VW South.

As Rob said many times, he was a "workaholic". He dedicated his life to his work, establishing a reputation of going above and beyond the call of duty. The technicians, service advisors, and other employees that he worked with and oversaw at Volkswagen say that Rob was a compassionate boss who always looked out for their best interest. He called them his "kids" and they referred to Rob as "dad" or "brother". His Volkswagen team was indeed his Florida family.

A Celebration of Life followed by a reception are scheduled for Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 1pm-4pm at DeGusipe Funeral Home, 9001 North Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL.. Chaplain Jose Torres will preside over the services.

All are welcome to attend and celebrate Rob's life.

Flowers and condolences may be sent to the DeGusipe Funeral Home at the address above.

In leu of flowers, a donation can be made to the AdventHealth Hospice in Altamonte Springs
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