Larry Thompson, the former Edmonton Elks season-ticket holder turned owner, has passed away at the age of 65. The Elks announced Thompson’s death, attributing it to complications from a recent surgery. Thompson, who transitioned from being a long-standing season-ticket holder to become the team’s owner on August 15, 2024, marked a significant shift for the CFL franchise, which had been community-owned since its establishment in 1949. Following this change, the CFL now only has two community-owned teams: the Saskatchewan Roughriders and Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Thompson’s wife, Deb, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of her husband, calling him a legend and vowing to continue his legacy. Despite Thompson’s absence, Deb emphasized her commitment to supporting the club and community, stating that owning the Edmonton Elks had been a lifelong dream for her late husband.
The Edmonton Elks, currently holding a record of 5-9 in the West Division, are set to face the Saskatchewan Roughriders (10-3) in their upcoming game. The team has not made it to the CFL playoffs since 2019. CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston praised Thompson as a dedicated fan who witnessed the team’s success in winning five consecutive Grey Cups from 1978 to 1982 and later fulfilled his own dream by owning the team.
Chris Morris, a three-time Grey Cup winner with Edmonton as a player, returned to the franchise as CEO and highlighted Thompson’s significant impact on the organization. Under Thompson’s leadership, the team aimed to rebuild and honor his memory. Deb Thompson will continue as the owner of the franchise following her husband’s passing.
Thompson’s acquisition of the Edmonton Elks was seen as a crucial step in ensuring the team’s stability, especially after the franchise reported a significant deficit in 2022. Despite selling his construction company, Thompson Brothers Construction Group, in 2023, Thompson remained dedicated to helping Edmonton regain its former football glory. His vision included providing the necessary resources for the team to excel and offering fans a product to be proud of.
No details about the funeral arrangements for Thompson have been released yet. His passing marks the second recent tragedy in the CFL, following the death of Hamilton Tiger-Cats general manager Ted Goveia from esophageal cancer. Goveia, who took on the role of GM for Hamilton in December 2024, had previously served in the Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ front office. Additionally, the CFL mourned the loss of veteran scout Craig Smith in August due to leukemia.
