July 26, 1952 - July 16, 2021
Susan Harkins passed on Friday July 16, 2021 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She was 68 years old. She is the daughter of Thomas Harkins and Martha Curry, born in Collinwood (Cleveland) OH.
Susan will be remembered for many things -- wife, mother, Nonna, tequila drinker, fan of salty foods and - most importantly - avid Browns fan. Susan started and ran a successful resale business on eBay, even teaching herself simple code in the early 2000s to create better listings. eBay was fine, but if reincarnation exists, Susan would much prefer to be a strong safety in the next life.
Her husband (Jeff Toppston) of 38 years was a loving caretaker -- and in younger years, the frequent ear for Susan's keen insights on the world. Her two sons (David, 34 and Aaron, 36) are now adults -- although never too old to enjoy Susan's regular care packages of baked goods and white undershirts. Being a mother was what Susan is most proud of -- until she had her first granddaughter (Cleo). Before Cleo was even born, nail clippers and parent books were in the mail. Thoughtful gifts of an experienced hand; and a small sign of Susan's unrelenting hospitality. We only wish Nonna could have met her second granddaughter.
Susan grew up in "a boy house" where even successive dogs were male. She was always happy to be one of the boys -- so much so that her colorful language directed at TV screens during Cleveland sports could make a sailor blush. But meeting her wonderful daughters-in-law (Sarah and Lydia) was cloud nine. Time with the girls, be it extended family or friends, was time cherished and memories made. Equally, Susan loved visiting Italy; after all, the sun shines differently in Florence.
Susan led a full life and we will miss her deeply. And she clearly said in her final days that she would be really pissed if the Browns won the Super Bowl this year (in the best way possible).
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (madd.org)
