Honoring Captain Chris Parsons

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a Saint Paul firefighter who was taken from us much too soon. Captain Christopher Parsons was just 48 years old when he sustained a major medical event shortly after completing his shift and passed away late last week. His untimely passing is a deep and profound loss for his loved ones, fellow firefighters, and our entire City.

Chris was born in Keokuk, Iowa, and grew up in Minneapolis in the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood near a fire station in a two-bedroom apartment, sharing a bedroom with his brother.

He attended Minneapolis South and Columbia Heights high schools and was recruited to play football at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Chris graduated with a degree in Psychology.

A firefighter for over 20 years, Chris started his career as a Saint Paul firefighter in 2000 and was promoted to captain in 2007, serving our community at Station 22 at Front Ave and Marion Street in Saint Paul’s North End. In addition to fighting fires, Chris served in leadership roles for IAFF Local 21, the Minnesota Professional Fire Fighters, the Minnesota Fire Service Foundation, and Firefighters United Association of Saint Paul, which represents the city’s Black firefighters. 

Chris was well known at the Minnesota State Capitol, where he was a tireless champion for the safety and wellness of all firefighters. He worked to advance legislation banning cancer-causing chemical flame retardants, to secure financial relief for firefighters injured in their work, for measures to protect first-responders from PTSD and COVID, and sought to raise awareness of the dangers faced by firefighters.

Chris had an impact on so many, myself included. Captain Parsons was a guide for me as I learned more about firefighting and the needs of the Saint Paul Fire Department. I was so fortunate to call him a friend.

He fought to save lives during his time on earth, and continues to do so even now through the gift of organ donation.

Chris will be greatly missed by the IAFF Local 21 members, the Saint Paul Fire Department, the Minnesota Fire Service, and his friends and family. Flags at the state Capitol will be flown at half-staff to honor Chris until sunset on Wednesday, June 21. His funeral is scheduled for Wednesday on Nicollet Island in Saint Paul.

Minnesota has lost a stalwart firefighter, a tireless public safety advocate, and dedicated family man. I extend my deepest condolences to Captain Parsons’ family and my gratitude for all those who put their lives on the line day after day to keep our community safe. Thank you, and I yield back.