Politicians across party mourned the death of Judy BaarTopinka Wednesday. She had spent the last 30 years in Illinois politics and recently was re-elected as state comptroller.
Topinka was remembered at a memorial service near her hometown in Chicago’s southwest suburbs. Speakers noted her pitbull personality, always looking for a good deal.
Nancy Kimme was Topinka’s long-time friend and chief-of-staff. She shared the podium at Wednesday's memorial with past, and future governors. Kimme spoke of Topinka’s love for thrifting and estate sales.
"And you were never allowed to pay full price. Even if something only cost a dollar, she will lose all respect for you if you ended up walking out of there paying more than 50 cents."
Topinka was praised for loyalty to her Republican Party, but also supported issues like same-sex marriage. For instance, during Chicago’s annual pride parade, Kimme said Topinka insisted on walking directly past people protesting the event.
Topinka died last week of complications from a stroke. She was 70.