Christopher Michael Thompson

Christopher Michael Thompson, age 38, of Woodbury, MN, passed away unexpectedly on October 5, 2025.
Chris, or "CT" as he was affectionately known (among many other nicknames), was born on January 30, 1987, in St. Paul, MN. He grew up in North St. Paul and Oakdale, MN. Chris attended Tartan High School and was a proud member of the varsity boys' hockey team, which won two consecutive section titles and made repeat appearances in the Minnesota State Hockey Tournament. After graduating, Chris went on to play junior hockey with the Rochester Ice Hawks. He later attended Marian University in Fond du Lac, WI, where he played Division III hockey and eventually joined the coaching staff. After moving back to Woodbury, he had the great honor of coaching the Tartan varsity boys' hockey team. It meant so much that he had the opportunity to coach the same team he once played for.
The best day of his life was June 18, 2015, when his son, Caleb Michael Thompson, was born. Caleb was his greatest joy and brought him immense pride and happiness. Chris was a devoted father, always sharing his love of sports, humor, and adventure with his son.
Chris had a lifelong passion for hockey, both as a player and a coach. This included coaching Caleb's teams and working with the East Metro Stars Youth Hockey Association (formerly TAYHA). He spent countless hours on the ice mentoring young athletes, sharing his knowledge, enthusiasm, and competitive spirit. His coaching extended beyond the rink-he was a natural leader who inspired others with his dedication, patience, and ability to make everyone feel seen and valued.
Golf was another of Chris's favorite pastimes. He cherished the peacefulness of the course, the challenge of the game, and the camaraderie it fostered. Many of his closest friendships were built and strengthened over shared rounds, golf weekends, and the occasional friendly wager.
CT's love for sports extended far beyond the hockey rink and golf course. He was also an avid softball player and bowler (he even achieved the rare, perfect 300 game) and thrived in any competitive setting. He especially enjoyed organizing epic "Olympic competitions," planning golf tournaments, and diving into fantasy football-where his knowledge of sports statistics was unmatched. Chris had a sharp memory for scores, players, and game history, and could talk sports with anyone for hours. He didn't just play to participate-he played to win, and everyone who knew him knew how seriously he took competition. His passion, energy, and drive made him a formidable teammate and an unforgettable opponent.
Known as the life of the party, Chris had a magnetic personality and a sense of humor that could make anyone laugh. His quick wit, infectious smile, and ability to make others feel at ease made him the center of every gathering. Whether telling stories, cracking jokes, singing karaoke, or teaching people his unique dance moves, Chris made every moment memorable.
Above all, Chris loved his family and friends fiercely. He was a loyal son, a protective brother, and a cherished friend. He is survived by his beloved son, Caleb; loving and devoted mother and stepfather, Kim and Derek Bradshaw; father and stepmother, Mark and Shelli Thompson; grandfather, Mike Marttila; grandmother, Nancy Thompson; and siblings: Ashley, Jenna, Ryan, Brandon, Kailee, Ryan, and Nicole. He is also remembered by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who were like family to him. Chris was preceded in death by his grandmother, Mary Elaine Marttila; grandfather, Louis "Joe" Thompson; and uncle, Jeffrey Marttila.
Chris's legacy lives on in the laughter he shared, the lives he impacted, and the love he poured into being a father. CT will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Oakwood Funeral Home (2585 Stillwater Road East, Maplewood, MN 55119). A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025. More details on that event to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to a fund established for the benefit of his son, Caleb (https://gofund.me/2d2bae17f).