Christopher Michael Thompson, affectionately known as “CT,” passed away on October 5, 2025, at the age of 38.
As of now, the cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed, and it was described as unexpected.
Chris Thompson Had a Passion For Hockey, Both As A Player And A Coach!
Born on January 30, 1987, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Chris Thompson grew up in North St. Paul and Oakdale.
He was a proud graduate of Tartan High School, where he played on the varsity boys’ hockey team.
Chris’s life was rooted in sports and mentorship. After high school, he played junior hockey with the Rochester Ice Hawks.
He continued his athletic journey at Marian University, where he played Division III hockey and later joined the coaching staff.
Back in Minnesota, he coached youth hockey with the East Metro Stars and spent countless hours mentoring young athletes.
Beyond hockey, Chris was passionate about golf, softball, and bowling, having once achieved a perfect 300 game.
He was known for organizing friendly competitions, fantasy football leagues, and golf tournaments.
His sharp memory for sports stats and his competitive spirit made him a beloved teammate and coach. Later, he returned to coach the same team he once played for.
Beyond sports, he loved telling stories, cracking jokes, singing karaoke, dancing, and teaching unique moves.
The news of Chris’s passing has deeply saddened the community.
Friends, family, and former players are mourning the loss of a man who made everyone feel valued and seen.
East Metro Area Youth Hockey Association (EMAYAH) shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, saying:
It is with heavy hearts we share the unexpected passing of Coach Chris Thompson on Sunday October 5, 2025. Chris was not only a coach but a friend to so many within our organization. Chris was a standout hockey player for Tartan’s last state tournament hockey team and later would go on to give back to the program as a board member assisting in the merge of Tartan and JCNSP. He donated many hours and efforts to seeing kids of all sorts play hockey in the area and was routinely the first to volunteer and offer his assistance for anyone in need and especially loved watching son Caleb play hockey and baseball.
Likewise, one of his closest friends shared sadness, saying:
Im very saddened by this, Chris was such a wonderful man, nicest guy ive ever met. Even in high-school I was the bad guy and Chris was still so kind and respectful to me. He never judges anyone, he accepted you for you. The world is a darker place without him.
Chris is survived by his son, Caleb; his mother, Kim; his stepfather, Derek; his father, Mark; and His Stepmother, Shelli.
He is also remembered by his extended family, such as grandfather Mike Marttila, grandmother Nancy Thompson, and siblings Ashley, Jenna, Ryan, Brandon, Kailee, and Nicole.
There will be a visitation on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Oakwood Funeral Home, and his Celebration of Life is scheduled for October 18.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Christopher Michael Thompson’s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
