Chris Vandeputte Obituary Chris Anthony Vandeputte, 54, known for his love of adventure, carefree attitude, generous spirit, and dedication to his businesses, died at his home on January 2, 2025. Despite living more fully than most, his early departure has left behind a heavy void. He was born on June 30, 1970 to Barbara and James Vandeputte. A lifelong resident of the Brainerd Lakes Area, Chris went to Brainerd High School, where he played football and developed bonds with friends that would last his lifetime. His love for football was easily noted, & his goal of seeing the MN Vikings play at every NFL stadium was just one indicator of his superfan status. Finding fun in every day was Chriss motto. And whether boating out on a lake, paving new paths in his motorhome, riding freshly blazed snowmobile trails, or patronizing one of his favorite downtown establishments, Chris was always surrounded by friends. Undoubtedly, he leaves behind a remarkable trail of memories. Above all, Chris was a respected and devoted businessman. Since 1989, he had been involved in every aspect of the Auto Imports corporation. His roles included creating, managing, funding, and refining Brothers Motorsports, whose long-standing employees and customer base will sorely miss him. Within the past year, after tragically losing both of his parents, Chris had to make endless difficult decisions regarding the Volkswagen dealership, which had been in the family for over 65 years. Additionally, he opened a pawn shop which brightened Brainerds downtown district for many years. Chris made a significant impact on this community. Chris leaves behind his sister, Debra, nephews Coltan (Ashley), Ryan, Kyler, and Brandon, nieces Olivia and Kalina, sister-in-law Wendy, former spouse Julie, and girlfriend Amanda Koering, as well as a long and winding trail of cousins, aunts, an uncle, and friends. He will be welcomed in Heaven by his parents, his grandparents, Joe and Leona and Herb and Lila, his dearly missed brother, Steve, and several aunts and uncles. He will be laid to rest at a private family burial at Evergreen Cemetery, and a special celebration of life will be held for friends and family at the American Legion in Brainerd on January 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. May Chris rest in the comfort of the Lord until we see his giant smile and hear his infectious laugh again. In lieu of planting trees, the family would love memorials/donations to go to the Brainerd Sports Boosters as Chris was passionate about supporting the Brainerd area youth athletics.