Tim Frantti 2026 Paul Lehto Service Award Winner

On Tuesday, February 11th, 2025, Tim Frantti was awarded the 2025 Paul Lehto Service Award at the Calumet/Houghton Varsity Hockey game.

Tim grew up in Florida Location and found his passion for hockey early on, playing in the Calumet Hockey Association as a kid. His talent on the ice was undeniable. During his high school career from 1979 to 1981, he racked up 37 goals and 44 assists for a total of 81 points—at the time, the third-highest point total in CHS hockey history. In his first season, he led the Copper Kings in scoring with 15 goals, 20 assists, and 35 points, earning an honorable mention on the Lake Superior All-Conference team. In his senior year, he solidified his place among the greats, making the All-Conference team with 22 goals and 24 assists for 46 points. And while he excelled in hockey, he was also a standout football player, later continuing his athletic journey at Northern Michigan University.

After his time at NMU, Tim worked as a corrections officer. He and his wife Lori then returned to the area to raise their three sons, and Tim’s love for the game led him back to the Calumet Hockey Association. For 25 years—spanning from 1992 to 2017—he served as a board member, coach, and registrar. He believed every child deserved the chance to play, and he worked tirelessly to make that a reality, helping families navigate the financial challenges that can come with the sport.

His dedication to hockey and community extended beyond his own family. His three sons followed in his footsteps, playing in the CHA and later for the Copper Kings. And it’s clear he passed down more than just his love for the game—one of his sons is now the assistant varsity hockey coach, continuing Tim’s legacy.

To those who knew him, Tim was a gentle giant. Former CHA president Glenn Patrick described him as someone who was always willing to lend a hand, engage in tough discussions with calmness, and approach every challenge with reason and fairness.

If Tim were here today, he would likely insist he didn’t deserve this award—because to him, it wasn’t about recognition. Everything he did was for the love of the game, for the kids, and simply because it was the right thing to do.

We were honored to have his beloved wife, Lori, his sons Josh and Logan, along with their families, including his two grandsons, who are proudly playing in the Calumet Hockey Association, at the rink to accept this award on his behalf.