Christopher “Chris” Joseph Thompson – February 23, 2023

Christopher “Chris” Joseph Thompson passed away unexpectedly on February 23, 2023 from complications of Type 1 diabetes.  He was 50 years old.  The family is deeply saddened by his sudden passing. 

Chris was the eldest child of William “Bill” Thompson of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Mary Anna Frieden of Muscatine, Iowa.  He was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 19, 1972.  His parents were both ordained ministers. Their ministry led them to several different places during his early childhood, until they finally settled in Colorado Springs in the early 1980’s.  Chris attended Widefield Elementary, East Jr. High and Wasson High School, before transferring to Pikes Peak Community College.

Chris was an academic and an intellectual. He studied everything from theology, drama and acting, to constitutional law.  He was a lifelong learner and loved to engage in lively conversations of politics and religion, where others may fear to tread.  He had a wonderful sense of humor and a quick wit.  He loved music and singing (although he couldn’t hold a tune – not for lack of trying!). He was a foodie and an avid sports fan. He and his sweetie, Kat, enjoyed both together over the last many years.

Christopher married Darla Willard, his lifelong friend in 1991.  Together they had six children. Though they divorced in 2010, they lovingly raised their children together and saw the birth of five grandchildren.  His children and grandchildren were the greatest joy of his life.  He marked all their heights on the wall as they grew.  His children often referred to him as “Lecture Dad” because he was always good for a lengthy dissertation on whatever subject matter, or lesson, was at hand. He was caring and compassionate and stubborn and wonderful, often all at the same time.  He was someone to know and through the years he made many, many friends. 

Chris was preceded in death by his father, William Thompson.  He is survived by his partner of many years, Kathleen Singleton; mother, Mary Anna Frieden; his children: Emily Hancock (husband Johnathan Hancock), Joseph Christopher Thompson, Jaden Thompson, Chase Thompson, Rachael Thompson, and Willow Thompson; his grandchildren: Aiden Hancock (Emily), Alexzander Barbee (Chase), Mason Thompson (Jaden), Chloe Donaldson (Willow), and Rocco Thompson (Joseph); his sisters: Krystyne Thompson, Amanda Thompson, and Deztinee Anna Thompson; along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. 

An Irish wake will be held for all those who knew Christopher, wish to pay their respects, or attend in support of the family.  The wake will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 5pm-7pm at The Vault Room in The Public House at The Alexander, 3104 N. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80907.