The Washington, Missouri community is mourning the loss of Chris Auffenberg, a respected businessman, longtime Ford dealer, and well-known member of the local automotive community. His passing has left a deep void in the hearts of family, friends, employees, and the countless customers whose lives he touched through decades of dedication, service, and genuine care for the people he served.
For many in Washington and the surrounding region, the name Auffenberg has long been synonymous with trust, quality, and integrity. Chris carried that legacy forward with pride, shaping Chris Auffenberg Ford into a dealership known not only for its inventory, but for the honesty, warmth, and personal attention that defined every interaction. Whether helping a young family choose their first car or chatting with returning customers he’d known for years, Chris made everyone feel valued.
Colleagues describe him as steady, hardworking, and unfailingly fair—a man who believed in doing things the right way. Employees often spoke of him not just as a boss, but as a mentor who offered guidance, encouragement, and respect. His leadership helped cultivate a dealership environment rooted in teamwork, reliability, and genuine kindness.
Beyond the business, Chris was known for his generosity and community involvement. He supported local events, youth programs, charitable initiatives, and the everyday needs of the people around him. He believed in giving back to the community that supported him, and his commitment to Washington, MO will be felt for years to come.
Friends remember him as someone who enjoyed a good conversation, valued connections, and carried himself with a quiet humility that earned the admiration of many. His presence—steady, familiar, and deeply woven into the fabric of the community—will be profoundly missed.
As family and friends grieve this great loss, they take comfort in the legacy Chris leaves behind: a life lived with purpose, generosity, and respect; a business built on trust; and a community strengthened by his presence.
Funeral arrangements and service details will be shared by the family when available.
May Chris Auffenberg rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.