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Jonathan Crompton Obituary
In Loving Memory
"In one of those stars I shall be living. In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the stars were laughing, when you look at the sky at night. And when your sorrow is comforted (time soothes all sorrows) you will be content that you have known me. You will always be my friend...I shall not leave you." From 'The Little Prince'
We are heartbroken by the death of our oldest son, Chance. Last month he took his life after a long struggle with depression, alcohol, and PTSD as a result of being drugged and sexually assaulted. There is nothing he wouldn't do to support or help a friend, but could not ask for - or accept - that same help and support from the many friends and family who loved him, cared for him.
Chance graduated from Harvey Mudd College, one of the country's top math, science and engineering colleges, in 2013 with "High Distinction" and became a graduate student at Caltech in the Lewis Lab. He took a medical leave in October 2016. In 2017 he was awarded a Master Degree of Science in Chemistry from Caltech but hoped to return to his PhD program. Sadly, he was unable to overcome the emotional, physical and mental damage of depression.
Chance was a fan of Guardians of the Galaxy, particularly Rocket. Quoting Rocket: "Ain't no thing like me, except me!" And there wasn't no thing like Chance.
Chance is loved and survived by his parents, David and Karen; his brother, Hart; aunts and uncles, Karla and Tom Jennison, John Crompton, Constance Crompton; cousin Ashley Crompton.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jonathan Crompton
Drew Michaud
July 28, 2022
It's been a very long time since I talked to Chance, but I considered him a friend when we were both at Mudd. I'll miss him dearly, and I'll always treasure the memories of school together. He was a bright, kind presence. My condolences to his family and loved ones.
Morgan
May 30, 2020
When I first came out, Chance was a grad student that one of the Center for Diversity directors at Caltech recommended I reach out to, and Chance was somebody who showed me support as I became ready to accept myself for who I am. I hadn't been in contact with Chance since I graduated.
Tonight I remembered Chance and I wanted to reach out to him and let him know where my life had taken me, and how much better things were going since I focused on allowing myself to be happy and share myself with the world, and instead I learned of his passing. I wish I had stayed in closer touch and had given him an update sooner.
Mary McIntyre
October 8, 2019
I am so sorry to hear of Chance's passing and send condolences to the Crompton family. I will always remember him as one of the kindest people at Rowland Hall, and though we hadn't spoken in years, I know the world will miss his presence.
Lidya Param
September 5, 2019
I've only known Chance a short while. But Chance Chance been so kind and supportive to me. We had fun, wonderful conversations together. He helped me out when I needed it. And I will never forget him. I hope you're at peace now.
Alex Edgley
March 22, 2019
As someone to be around at school, Chance was a genuinely fantastic and unique person. Sort of embodied by his pet bird from early on. I have many great memories about him. Very sorry to hear about what happened.
Alex Edgley
Great photo of Chance -- successful, smart young man!
Kathy Adams
March 19, 2019
Karen Edgley
March 18, 2019
Karen, David and Hart, we are so so sorry. Alexander has such wonderful memories of Chance, and even though he was not in close contact, he still thought of him as his friend.
Margot McCallum
March 17, 2019
I'm so sorry.
Love to all of you.
Nicholas Carter
March 14, 2019
Chance, you made a difference in my life and I will miss you. I remember weekly trips to Jay's place to spend remaining flex before it expired. I remember your help and support in classes as I struggled. I remember singing late at night. I looked up to you so much those couple of years, and I am so thankful I had a chance to share a meal with you a few times since. I wish the last time had been more recent.
Terry Pavia
March 14, 2019
Karen and family, our deepest condolences. Chance was between our kids at Roland Hall. It's such a sadness for your family and the loss for the whole community. We are all thinking of you during this difficult time.
Colleen Day
March 14, 2019
My heart aches for you and the loss that you're feeling. I hope you feel surrounded by Love during this time.
Travis Beckman
March 14, 2019
I struggled with self confidence and body image issues at Mudd, and Chance was a tremendous help to me in always being willing to talk and encourage me to develop healthy habits. He will be missed, and his positive impact on the Mudd community won't be forgotten.
Janet Brooks
March 13, 2019
Karen and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how proud you were of Chance and the joy you felt in his amazing accomplishments. My words won't change the deep sorrow you must feel but I hope they will remind you of the love that so many people have for you.
Hugs,
Janet Brooks
Karen Johnson
March 13, 2019
I'm very sorry for your loss. Thank you for being so candid about Jonathan's passing. My extended family has experience with suicide, which is so heartbreaking. It's something no one wants to discuss, yet so many of us have firsthand experience with this type of tragedy. You are not alone. Godspeed to you and yours.
Jeanne Zeigler
March 13, 2019
Honestly, Chance is one of my all-time favorite students. So smart, so funny, so dear. My heart breaks for the Crompton Family. Lots of love to you.
Ina Landry
March 13, 2019
My heart breaks for you all. Depression is such a hard thing and affects so many.
With sorrow,
Ina
Charlotte Mates
March 13, 2019
Dear Crompton Family -
My thoughts, prayers and condolences are with you as you mourn the death of your dear son, brother, nephew, cousin and friend, Chance.
Sincerely,Charlotte (Kitterer) Mates
Gary And Michele Wood
March 13, 2019
You brought such joy to your parents and your brother, my memories of you and our son Thor running amok beneath the tables at The Roadside Attraction make me smile. I hope you have found the peace you so deserve.
Joel Long
March 12, 2019
We love you, Chance. I remember your voice and your look of wonder and inquiry every time you walked into my room. Love also to Karen, David, and Hart.
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