Christopher David Lippert – 64, of North Reading and formerly of Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.
Chris was born in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Saginaw, Michigan. He relocated to the Boston area after college and lived in the area for 42 years. After a brief illness, Chris is survived by his beloved wife, Gerti Engel, adored daughter Shannon Lippert, son Eric Lippert, stepchildren Kathleen
McMillan, Michael McMillan (Molly) and Jaclyn McQueen (Steve), grandchildren Stevie, Kiera and Teddy McQueen and
Jack McMillan. He’s also survived by siblings Beth Lippert Martinez (Rob), Doug Lippert (Mary) and ten nieces and nephews. Brother Michael Lippert (Ginnie) and parents David and Marilyn Lippert predecease him.
Chris was a lifelong athlete starting with little league baseball, playing hockey and tennis in high school and varsity soccer for Albion College in Michigan. After collegiate athletics, he continued to play both soccer and hockey in adult leagues for 20 years. When injuries slowed him down, he turned to refereeing adult league soccer games in North Reading,
Chris graduated from Albion College (BA), Boston College (MBA) and received a Certificate in Business from Harvard. Starting as a teller, he culminated his 40-year banking career as Senior Vice President of Lending for Newburyport Bank.
Chris was also involved in Boy Scouts, first with his son Eric and then with his grandson Teddy. He also volunteered with the Eagle Scout program in Massachusetts and served as Assistant Scout Master. One of his proudest accomplishments was hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2 from 10:00 AM to 11:50 AM, followed by a prayer service at noon at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Chris’s memory to Boy Scouts of America at donations.scouting.org
www.croswellfuneralhome.com
Very sorry to hear of the passing of Chris. We knew Chris from his great work with our two boys in scouting. He will certainly be missed. -The Caldwell Family
Chris,
It’s hard to find the right words when emotions run so deep, but I want to try—because you’ve meant so much to me and my family.
When I think about where our journey together began, I picture that first moment we met you—a man among men. You stood there, humble and strong, with a quiet focus on what mattered most: the scouts. From the very beginning, it was clear that your heart was in the right place. Whether in moments of stress or joy, your presence brought steadiness, laughter, and purpose.
There’s a saying: “Life is what happens while we’re making other plans.” And life certainly happened—with you right in the middle of it. We shared goals, ideas, and countless conversations. But more than that, we shared pieces of ourselves. In doing so, we built something deeper than friendship—we built love. I know it might not always feel “manly” to say it, but I’ll say it anyway: my whole family loves you. We have for a long time.
It’s impossible to think about scouting over the past decade without thinking of “Mr. Lippert.” You’ve been a constant—guiding, encouraging, and lifting up so many young people. Your impact goes far beyond what any award or recognition could capture. You’ve helped countless scouts push through challenges, and you’ve been a steady hand as they reached for the summit of their Eagle Scout journey.
I’ve cherished our friendship through the years—whether we were venting about a tough day, helping a homesick scout, or just sharing a quiet moment. You’ve always been there, and that has meant the world.
When Ben was little, I knew I wouldn’t always be able to guide him myself. So I made it a point to surround him with good men—men who lived with integrity and heart. You were one of the best examples I could have hoped for. I’ve watched Ben grow, and I see pieces of you in him. That’s a gift I’ll always be grateful for.
Chris, you’ve changed lives—just by being who you are. These scouts carry your influence with them wherever they go. And so do we.
( We sent the above to Chris about 3 weeks ago..)
Gerti and family, we wish you heavens’ comfort and our prayers as you navigate this difficult time. Chris will be greatly missed.
Rest in peace Great Chief of Eagles…
The Parkers
Hallo liebe Gerti mit Familie
Ich möchte euch mein aufrichtiges Beileid aussprechen!
In diesen schweren Stunden sind meine Gedanken bei euch . Möge die Erinnerung an Chris euch Trost spenden .
In Liebe
Sabine und Thomas mit Familie
Hallo meine geliebte Schwester Gerti ich traure mit dir ich bin in Gedanken bei euch allen.ich umarme dich ganz herzlich.Deine Schwester Ursula und Sepp
Hi Ursula I hope You and Yours are well Eddie McMillan
Hallo meine liebe Schwester Gerti wir trauern mit dir um deinen geliebten Mann Chris.Wir sind in Gedanken bei dir.In Liebe deine Ursula und Sepp.
To Gerti & family,sorry for your loss of Chris, our deepest condolences to you and your family.the Gaudreau’s on the pond.
My condolences to the Lippert family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
I only had the chance to meet Chris a few times during his visits to Germany with my aunt Gerti. He spoke some German and was always eager to try out new phrases on his unsuspecting German relatives — something I remember fondly. I have to admit, I didn’t know him very well. But as I read through this obituary and the many heartfelt messages, I’ve been struck by the depth of his accomplishments and the lasting impact he had on so many. I wish I had had the opportunity to get to know my uncle better.
My thoughts are with Gerti, my cousins and their families, Shannon (whom I met in San Diego a few years ago), Chris’ sister and brother and their families, and everyone who is mourning this tremendous loss.
Hallo meine liebe Schulfreundin Gerti! Ich traure mit dir und wünsche euch allen viel Kraft in diesen schweren Tagen. Ich umarme dich ganz fest.
Dein alter Freund Siggi
Liebe Gerti, auch wir trauern mit Dir um den grossen Verlust Deines Ehemanns Chris der nach schwerer Krankheit erlöst wurde. Ich wünsche Dir viel Kraft in diesen schweren Tagen. Wir werden Chris in unseren Herzen tragen und erinnern uns an einen angenehmen, ruhigen Freund. Ruhe in Frieden lieber Chris.
Deine Edel mit Family
We miss you, Chris. I’ll remember you for always being ready to help out, quick to join conversation, and a meaningfully positive part of our community. My kids, especially Jacob, have enjoyed the time you made for them. You have made an impact on us, one that helped shape my kids’ childhoods – an impact that will forever be a part of their foundation in understanding what it means to be a good person and friend.
Gerti – I’m so sorry for your loss. Thank you for letting us be a part of your grieving, for accepting what little comfort we can provide. We are here for you and will remember Chris with you.
Chris was always a gentleman, kind sole, and a dear friend. I remember him planning his Appalachian trip, one of his very important bucket lists of things to do, and he had a blast. Will always miss our shop talks.
Truly sad to hear losing of Mr .Christopher! I know him for fu years. My condolences to the family
Sorry to hear of Chris’s passing. I always enjoyed talking to him especially about scouting at Ernie’s Lunch in Melrose. He will be missed at the counter there.