The Catasauqua high school sports community and the town suffered a tragic loss on Christmas afternoon.

Dante Kaintz, a 2019 graduate, was killed when his car hit a tree in Lower Macungie Township. Kaintz was pronounced dead at 7:20 p.m. after his vehicle left the road in the 2200 block of Light Horse Harry Road. Lehigh County Coroner Daniel A. Buglio said. Kaintz died of multiple blunt force injuries, and his death was ruled an accident.

Kaintz played football and basketball and participated in track during his years as a Roughie Rider. His best sport undoubtedly was track.

A candlelight vigil, attended by a large crowd, was held at his home Monday night.

Athletic Director Tom Moll stated how Kaintz’s personality was one of his greatest assets.

“He was a great kid, and had a great smile,” reflected Moll. “He was always smiling, always in a great mood. He had a personality that could light up a room.

“I saw him at the Parkland-St. Joe Prep playoff game. He was there because he was helping train a player on Parkland’s team. It was great to see him and catch up.

“It was just crushing news.”

Former basketball and football teammate Andrew Brett also recognized Kaintz’s disposition and his willingness to help others.

“He always had a smile on his face, and would bring humor to the team,” said Brett. “He was a kid who only cared about the team, and would do whatever he could to help the team in any way he could.

“He definitely was selfless, and he always wanted to see his peers succeed.”

Head boys’ basketball coach Eric Snyder remembered Kaintz as an energetic motivator, especially during the summer leagues.

“He was so pumped up for summer leagues, and he really got the team together,” said Snyder. “He loved playing, and enjoyed being the ‘general manager’ during the summer.

“He also helped down at Cedar Beach, and over the past two years, he would text me about it.”

Head track coach Kyle Rusnock echoed his peers’ and players’ sentiments. Kaintz qualified in the high jump, long jump, triple jump, 100 meter dash, and as a member of the 4 x100 relay team in both leagues and districts.

“Dante will be missed,” said Rusnock. “He was a great track athlete representing Catasauqua, which he took great pride in. Dante was loved by all the athletes, even on the opposing teams.

“He was unselfish, helped everyone, and made everyone’s day better and brighter. He had a magnetic personality and was loved by all.

“Rest in peace, ‘mi promo.’”