The Tragic Passing of Stefan Choffat Obituary
The Swiss hockey community is in deep mourning following the “hot and shocking” news of the death of Stefan Choffat. A prominent figure on and off the ice, Stefan lost his life in a devastating midnight accident on the Rue du Grenier in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Reports indicate that his vehicle veered off the road near the railway bridge, crashing through a metal barrier and plummeting onto the tracks below. The suddenness of this tragedy has left his former teammates, fans, and neighbors in a state of profound shock. To lose such a vibrant soul—a man who had celebrated his 49th birthday just days earlier—is a heartbreak that words cannot fully measure.
Stefan was a pillar of the HC Tramelan club, where he first began his journey as a player. His talent eventually took him to the highest levels of Swiss hockey, representing clubs like HC Bienne and Fribourg-Gottéron. His departure marks the end of a chapter for many who grew up watching him play with passion and integrity. The “undeniable void” created by his absence is felt through every rink in the region, as friends and family struggle to process the loss of a man who was as dedicated to his profession as an attorney and notary as he was to the sport he loved.
A Legacy of Excellence on the Ice and in the Law
Stefan Choffat’s impact reached far beyond the boards of a hockey rink. Known for his precision and discipline, he successfully transitioned from a professional athlete to a respected notary and lawyer, running his own practice with the same spirit of excellence he showed as a player. He was a man of diverse talents and deep heart, described by many as a devoted husband to his wife, Andreanne, and a loving father. His life was a masterclass in how to balance professional ambition with community service and family devotion.
The outpouring of grief currently flooding the Neuchâtel region is a testament to the fact that Stefan was a person of immense character. Whether he was guiding clients through legal matters or mentoring younger players at HC Tramelan, he led with kindness and a grounded perspective. His 49 years were defined by the connections he built and the warmth he offered to everyone he met. It is this legacy of multifaceted excellence that his loved ones now cling to—a reminder of a man who pursued every goal with unwavering passion.
Honoring a Remarkable Life Taken Too Soon
As the investigation into the circumstances of the January 2026 crash continues, the focus remains on honoring Stefan Choffat’s memory and supporting those he left behind. The “shocking and eye-catching” nature of the accident has sparked a wave of tributes from across the nation, uniting rivals and teammates alike in a singular moment of reflection. Stefan’s story did not end on that tragic Tuesday; it continues through every young player he inspired and every life he touched in his legal career.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Choffat family and the HC Tramelan community during this devastating time. We acknowledge a loss that has shaken the Forest region to its core. As the community prepares for a final farewell, we promise to keep his spirit alive by practicing the same integrity and heart that Stefan showed us every day. Rest in peace, Stefan Choffat; your light was a blessing to the sport of hockey and to all who had the privilege of knowing you.