The New Year arrived with unexpected sorrow, as the world lost someone truly beyond words. On Thursday morning, January 1, 2026, Sergeant Christopher Pederson (SLMPD) entered eternal rest.
Growing up a good ol’ farm boy from the Minot, North Dakota area, Chris’ life as an adult eventually took him to St. Louis, Missouri, where he established roots and a home that will endure beyond his passing.
From early childhood, Chris’ life forced him into a role of helping and protecting others. This desire grew even stronger into adulthood where he felt the call to honor and protect on a larger scale. He served faithfully as a law enforcement officer with a distinguished career spanning the better part of 18 years.
Chris started his profession in law enforcement as a graduating officer of SLMPD Class 07-02, December 2007. While 2012 took him to Washington, DC for a brief year stint as a U.S. Capitol Police Officer, his continuous law enforcement employment took him back home to St. Louis where he continued to protect the public, serving most recently as a District 4 Sergeant with SLMPD.
Chris took pride in ‘His Pride’ and was proud to serve as the LGBTQ+ Liaison Officer for the Department. In addition, his involvement with the Special Olympics of Missouri was something he held dear to his heart, especially events such as the Torch Run and the Annual Polar Plunge.
Chris lived and loved his calling, but he was more than just his career. He’s survived by his husband of 16 years – Marc St. Pierre, along with their two obnoxious pup children – Truman & Franklin, as well as many family members and friends (who he considered family) across the country who are grieving the loss of him.
Chris was one big, wonderful personality and that big personality will make his absence even larger. He leaves behind a void incapable of being described, but a legacy that will remain in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him best in his 48 short years on earth.
In lieu of flowers, we ask donations to be made to Backstoppers, PO BOX 795168, St. Louis, MO 63179-0700 or Special Olympics of Missouri, 305 Special Olympics Dr., Jefferson City, MO 65101
Visitation: Thursday, January 15, 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. Service: Friday, January 16, 11:00 a.m. at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd. Burial will be private.
Sorry Marc for your loss. My sweet smiling Chris you were the best supervisor I had at MLT. You will be missed.
I grew up not far from Chris and his family in the small farming community of Roseglen, ND. Hecwas a “neighbor kid” and I remember riding the bus and going to school and community events in thise days. I’m so sorry to know of his death at such a young age, but it’s beautiful to see what a wonderful career and life he built for himself in law enforcement and the love he shared with his husband in Missouri. Rest in peace, Chris. May the angels attend you and comfort those who loved you in your life.
Marc, I don’t know you but I’ve watched you and Chris on Facebook grow and have a beautiful life! I met Chris in 2003 at the airport in training. I knew he was special and his personality just beamed.
We work together briefly and I remember the day he told me he wanted to become a police officer in the city of St Louis.
Rest in peace my friend.
May his memory be a blessing!
My most sincere condolences to the Chris’s family. He was such a nice person. May God be with his family in this tome of need
Marc I am sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences and may his soul rest in eternal peace and may perpetual light shine upon him always, and may his memory be eternal.
Marc, we never met but I enjoyed watching Truman growing up and your trips. I was so happy for Chris when he found someone that made him so happy. Chris always made me laugh at work and even long after. I can’t imagine how hard this has been for you. there are no words to make it better or to help fully understand what happened. I hope you take care of yourself and lean on those that love you to get through this awful nightmare. And remember those that loved him also care about you even if we never met.
Chris was an amazing soul. I will miss his entertainment and all the laughs he gave me. My deepest condolences to Marc and all his family and friends. He will be missed.
Officer Pederson and his family, I am saddened to hear this. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and I offer my condolences to your friends and families.
Greg Kouba
Captain, Victoria County Sheriff’s Office, Texas
Marc,
I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. This is a beautiful tribute to Chris. Dan and I were blessed to know Chris, and we remember fondly the stars aligning and us getting to share a meal together in Berlin while on our Honeymoon. (We reference “spargelzeit” with alarming frequency.) We are here for you and our home is open to you if you’d like to spend some time back in the DC area with your family here.
All my love,
Rob Finn