NEWPORT NEWS — Zachum Topp, 32, of Newport News, Virginia passed away on February 16, 2022.
Zachum was born to Kelly Topp and Kathy Werner Topp in Akron, Ohio. He was the fourth of eight children, and the first of four boys. From the beginning, he was the family comedian, thrill-seeker, and troublemaker. As a teen, he was notorious for his homemade stunt films, capturing all manner of pyrotechnics, dangerous skateboard tricks, and crazy height-jumping. And he often had the broken bones to show for it.
Zachum was a natural athlete, gifted in soccer, football, and snowboarding. But his true love was golf. After graduating from Menchville High School in 2008, Zachum became a master student of the game and passed the Player’s Ability Test. He found incredible joy in giving golf lessons, teaching kids at First Tee, and working as an Assistant Golf Pro at several golf courses. Zachum also worked as a talented server and self-taught wine sommelier at some of the finest restaurants in Hampton Roads.
Zachum’s charisma and laugh were contagious. He lit up every room he entered, and he always stood out from the crowd with his good looks, his bright and well-coordinated wardrobe, and his perfectly coiffed hair. He made every holiday more fun, and he made every sporting event more interesting with a friendly wager. He had big dreams and an even bigger heart. His gifts were generous and meaningful, and his hugs were tight and purposeful. The void Zachum leaves is immeasurable. He will be so deeply missed by his family and friends.
Zachum was preceded in death by his four grandparents, two aunts, two cousins, and his beloved childhood dogs, Chessie and Ginger.
Zachum leaves behind his dad and mom, Kelly Topp and Kathy Werner Topp; his four sisters, Samantha Stein (Nicholas Stein), Erin Topp (Brett Blobaum), Patti Topp, and Mary Topp; his three brothers, John Topp, Elias Topp, and Joshua Topp; his four nieces and nephews, Caeleb, Noah, and Sophie Stein, and Albin Blobaum; and countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Zachum’s Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 25, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church, 100 Harpersville Road, Newport News, Virginia 23601. A public visitation will precede the Mass beginning at 4:00 p.m at the church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to First Tee (firstteehamptonroads.org) in Zachum’s honor. Arrangements by Weymouth Funeral Home.