‘Gentle Giant' Lehigh Valley Man Dies Suddenly At 33

Christopher D. Reinert, of Red Hill, was pronounced dead in the emergency department at Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg at 4:47 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 6, Coroner Daniel A. Buglio's office announced on Tuesday, Sept. 8. An autopsy was completed Tuesday at the Lehigh County Coroner's Office and Forensic Center. Reinert died of natural causes, according to the coroner. A specific cause of death was not released. Known to loved ones as 'Chris' and 'Topher,' Reinert had worked at Marcho Farms since September 2021, according to his Facebook profile. His imposing appearance hid an exceptionally kind heart, friends said. 'Topher was truly a gentle giant,' one longtime friend wrote. 'He was the kind of person who could be intimidating just by looking at him, but anyone who really knew him knew how big his heart was.' The pair had known each other since middle school, later lived together, and shared years of memories, the friend said. 'He had a way of making people feel safe, welcome, and cared for,' the tribute continued. 'I hope you knew how many lives you touched just by being you.' Another childhood friend said Reinert continued reaching out during some of the most difficult periods of their life, regularly checking in and sending messages on Christmas and New Year's. 'You never stopped reaching out to me, even in my addiction,' the friend wrote. 'You've always been one of the best childhood friends I could have ever asked for.' The friend added that Reinert brought joy to their life and helped them through their school years. 'I wish I had one more chance just to talk to you again and tell you thank you and how wonderful of a person you've always been,' the tribute reads. 'Rest in paradise, Chris Reinert.' Funeral and memorial service information was not immediately available.