Passing of Charles Corlett

Passing of Charles (Buddy) Corlett (1921-2015)
May 2015

A Boyhood in Canada set buddy up for the love of both Softball and Basketball in which he would later excel making New Zealand teams.

Buddy started his playing days in New Zealand with Auckland United where he stayed for the duration of his playing years.

His 15 years in Auckland teams came with numerous titles, which was a long time record, But his many trips came at an expense as back in those days players would save all year to be able to attend the National tournaments.

Buddy had a remarkable throw, and would wait until the runner was only a step from the base before letting the ball go and he needed a strong willed first baseman to do him justice and record each one of his outstanding outs.

After Buddy retired from Softball he began to focus more on his Love for his Basketball.

In 2008 Buddy was made a Legend of Auckland Softball as well as receiving the honour of being named as one of the Top 10 outstanding New Zealand Basketballers of the Century.

He was a lifetime Stalwart of the YMCA and he rose to become the Director of the “Panmure Youth Citizen’s Gymnasium” and was later awarded an MBE from Queen Elizabeth in 1974 for services to the Community.

As much as Buddy may have loved his sport there was no love that could compare to that for his Wife, Yvette, who he, just last year, celebrated their 60th Wedding anniversary.

Our thoughts go out to his Wife Yvette, his children Neville, Peter, Karen and Bruce, who have not only lost a father, but a Mentor and a friend at that. Buddy also had many Grandchildren and one Great Grandchild who no doubt will continue to carry his legacy just like his kids have done in the past.

A service to remember our dear friend Buddy will be held on Friday 15 May at 2:00pm, St Columba Presbyterian Church, 480 Ti Rakau Drive, Botany.