Ray “Topps” Topolski

Ray began his softball career in the “Back of the Yards” at Sherman Park with his friends the Chi-Wolves. Played for Daly Hamburgs after returning from college. He flourished as a centerfielder with the Jimmy Rose team at Clarendon and Chicago and Kedzie Leagues until ’59. One of his highlights was a 4 home run performance in an Allstar game at Thillens. Then he joined the champion Bobcats.and played CF until 1964 when the 6 children demanded more time and his wife Theresa was glad to get it. He was an excellent fielder and clutch hitter with a unique hitting style that created good power. He finished his illustrious 20 years helping his employer, Reliable Packing, win 2 Industrial Championships in the late 60s. He was a 3 sport letterman at Leo High School in football, track, and basketball. As a senior, he was honored as the Athlete for 4 Years by Cardinal Stritch! Played baseball and batted .330 and averaged 20 points per game in basketball for Lewis College. Grandfather to 15. Born 1933.