The Edmonton Elks announced that owner Larry Thompson passed away on Thursday due to complications following surgery.
“Although I had the privilege of working with Larry for less than a year, his impact on me—and on our entire organization—was profound,” EE President and CEO Chris Morris said. “Larry’s toughness and direct nature were matched only by his genuine care for every person connected to the Double E. He led with clarity, courage, and an unwavering belief in people. We will do everything in our power to carry his example with us as we rebuild this franchise in his honour.”
Larry Thompson acquired the Edmonton Elks on August 15, 2024, after four decades running his Thompson Construction Group business, which he sold in 2023. Under his leadership, Thompson grew the Spruce Grove-based company to include 1,500 employees and 2,000 pieces of equipment.
He continued to actively invest in the business community through Thompson Enterprises. In addition, the Thompson family is known for their charitable work in the Edmonton area, particularly for causes that benefit children, and they continued the Club’s commitment to giving back to the community.
Owning the Elks was a lifelong goal for Thompson. Larry’s introduction to the Eskimos was attending his first game in 1972. Since taking ownership of the team, the Elks are 10-13. In the offseason, the Elks traded for quarterback Cody Fajardo and signed a handful of players, including Tyrell Ford, Jake Ceresna, and Robbie Smith.
Edmonton announced that the ownership will remain with Larry’s wife, Deb Thompson. She is dedicated to carrying on Larry’s vision to revive the Double E as a pillar in the Edmonton sports scene and a leader in the community.
“Our family is devastated with the loss of our anchor,” Deb Thompson said. “Larry was a legend and our family will continue his legacy far beyond our lifetimes. Owning EE was a lifelong dream, my only regret is he isn’t here to enjoy it. I will continue to support the club and community as it has become my dream as well as of our family.”
All of us from BGMSportsTrax send our condolences to the Thompson family, the Edmonton Elks family, and fans.
