CHRIS GERARD VANDEHEY
With a heavy heart we have to say goodbye to Chris Vandehey. Chris died peacefully in his sleep on December 29th, 2022, at 66.
Chris grew up in Banks, Oregon, with his two sisters, Claudia and Lydia, and his loving parents, Dave and Luella. Dave and Luella owned a farm in Banks, and Chris grew up surrounded by plows and animals on the farm. However, Chris once said that his father did not have him work on the farm, instead opted for cousins to take over the difficult jobs caring for the property. When Chris asked his dad why he did not want Chris to work on the farm like his cousins, his father simply said that he knew Chris was destined for greater work elsewhere. Dave was correct. Chris has been a hairstylist for over 30 years, owning his salon and becoming a well known platform artist for Aquage Beauty Products. Chris had a loyal following in his clientele, many of whom started getting their hair done with him when he began in the beauty industry and stayed with him until his death. Chris did not stop there; he started an event called Taste of Style that donated all proceeds to the Oregon Food Bank and more. Chris believed in his community and actively participated in making the world a better place. He was a pillar in his temple and often spoke of what a fulfilling experience it was to be the host of religious ceremonies. Chris was married to Clifford King for 39 years and took special care of his partner throughout their marriage. They loved to travel together and shared so many extraordinary times. Cliff often says how Chris was a genius. Chris had many talents. He was a fantastic hair stylist and artist. But his most significant gift was how he treated the people around him. Chris turned friends into family and acquaintances into friends. Chris made people feel seen and heard. He made everyone feel welcome and loved. Chris had a presence that created a space for those the knew him to love him. The world has lost an incredibly generous and loving human, and it will not be the same now that he is gone |