Anthony “Tony” James Brandenburg, 54, of Minneapolis, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025.
Born on Nov. 7, 1970, in Duluth, Minnesota, Anthony attended elementary school in Worthington, Minnesota, junior high school in Two Harbors, Minnesota, and high school in Wayzata, Minnesota. He started his professional photography career early. At age 11 he realized that lemonade stands would not be a viable career choice and published his first story, which he wrote and photographed, in National Geographic World magazine.
He attended Minneapolis College of Art & Design (MCAD) while juggling an illustrious photo career working with magazines such as Time, Sports Illustrated, Newsweek, Glamour, Self and many others. He was co-creator/developer of “365 Things to Avoid in the Twin Cities” and designed over 50 album covers. His designs and campaigns won multiple awards and honors. One of his websites was prominently featured in Graphis magazine as one of the 10 best interactive sites for 2005.
In 2001 he co-founded a full-service communication design firm, BNDH, while continuing to assist his father on various projects including designing books, making movies, web development and printing fine-art prints for the Brandenburg Gallery. He was a talented musician and was very well-known in the Minneapolis music scene.
Anthony lit up every room with his smile and always knew how to make people laugh. He loved to be reminded that he “looked better with shorter, thinning hair.” We know that he touched many lives, was well-loved and will be missed by many. Thank you to everyone who was a good friend to Anthony. We are forever grateful for the impact you made on his life.
Anthony is survived by his son, Lindsey Brandenburg of St. Paul, Minnesota; parents Jim and Judy Brandenburg of Ely and Medina, Minnesota; sister Heidi Brandenburg (Nels Pierson) of Ely, Minnesota; niece Olivia Ross and nephew Liam Ross.
He was preceded in death by his loving grandparents and uncle, John Deitering.
A Celebration of Life will follow in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Brandenburg Prairie Foundation, an organization that was close to Anthony’s heart. Touch the Sky Prairie in Luverne, Minnesota, was a very spiritual place for him, where he loved to wander and reflect.
Donations may be made at the link below, or sent to Brandenburg Prairie Foundation, c/o Brandenburg Gallery, 11 E Sheridan Street, Ely, MN 55731. Please state Anthony Brandenburg Memorial on your donation.
https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YMEVF2NSY73EA
Memorials may also be directed to The Retreat, an organization that is committed to helping people who suffer from substance abuse. To donate via credit card, visit link below. Or mail a check to: Attention: Charles Vaubel, Financial Manager, The Retreat, 1221 Wayzata Blvd E, Wayzata, MN 55391
https://securepayment.link/theretreat/one-time-credit-card-donation
