Obituaries
Passing of Haydn Smith
21 April 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Haydn Smith.
Passing of John Manning
15 April 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of John Manning .
Passing of Ray Timu
18 March 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Ray Timu.
Passing of Janice Foote
11 February 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Janice Foote.
Passing of Michael Mulholland
7 February 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Michael Mulholland.
Passing of Edward Nichols
15 January 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Edward Nichols.
Passing of Stu Hodges
20 September 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Stu Hodges
Passing of Colleen Callaghan
1 September 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Colleen Callaghan.
Passing of Jean Gould
10 August 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Jean Gould.
Passing of Malcolm Wright
23 June 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Malcolm.
Passing of Linda Wood
9 March 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Linda Wood.
Passing of Arnie Hall
30 January 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Arnie Hall.
Passing of Rob Siolo
27 October 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Rob Siolo.
Passing of Barrie Whittaker
13 September 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Barrie Whittaker.
Passing of Paul Stockford
23 August 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Paul Stockford.
Passing of Jack Rochford
28 June 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Jack Rochford.
Passing of Ray Cranch
14 October 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Ray Cranch.
Passing of Trevor Pinchen
12 October 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Trevor Pinchen.
Passing of Mel Davies
31 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Mel Davies.
Passing of John Dawson
31 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of John Dawson.
Passing of Elaine Karsten
23 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Elaine Karsten.
Passing of Russell Moffatt
12 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Russell Moffat.
Passing of Martha Rush
9 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Martha Rush.
Passing of Bruce Bishop
7 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Bruce Bishop.
Passing of Lana Kinghorn
9 July 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Lana Kinghorn.
Passing of Ron Jackson
21 May 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Ron Jackson.
Passing of Elva Jennings
10 January 2021
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of a well-known and respected lady of Hutt Valley Softball.
Elva Jennings passed away 10 January 2021 aged 86. Elva was a Life Member of Hutt City United Softball and Hutt Valley Statisticians and Scorers. She was also a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from Hutt Valley Softball. Elva will be sorely missed, especially in the softball community and out thoughts and condolences go out to family and friends.
Funeral details to follow.
Passing of Graham Latta
28 December 2020
It is with sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Graham Latta on Saturday 26 December 2020. Graham had been a Life Member of the Association since 1987, and Patron since 2014. Graham was an outstanding contributor to the association in a variety of administrative and coaching/management roles throughout his life including three stints as President of the Association. He also served on the Council and then Board of Softball NZ from 1990 until 2000 and received a "Distinguished Service Award" from Softball NZ. His historical records for both Southland and New Zealand were incredibly thorough and detailed.
Passing of Bill Massey
July 2020
It is with great sadness we inform you on the passing of one of our sports greats in Bill Massey.
Bill passed peacefully this morning surrounded by his loving family.
Bill was a member of the team colloquially known as the Pilgrims, and attended the first two men’s world championships in Mexico City, 1966, and Oklahoma City in 1968.
He was dubbed Mr Softball by the New Zealand media at the peak of his career as one of the worlds most feared pitchers.
Bill was inducted into the World Softball Hall of Fame in 2019 and a special presentation was made to him during the WBSC U18 Men’s Softball World Cup in Palmerston North earlier this year.
Passing of Bob Roff
7 July 2020
Passing of Annie Lineham
16 June 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Annie Lineham.
Passing of Steven Mulholland
2 June 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Steven Harold Mulholland.
Passing of George Woodcock
23 March 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of George Woodcock.
Passing of Dennis Russell
14 February 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Dennis Russell.
Passing of Rangi Muller
11 February 2020
It is with a heavy heart that we have to report the passing of a grand old lady of New Zealand Softbal. Rangi Muller passed away in Rotorua on the 8th February, aged just short of 95 years.
Passing of Irene Keating
11 February 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Irene Keating just recently.
Passing of Dennis Ormsby
December 2019
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Dennis Ormsby.
Passing of Ray Tibbitts
30 September 2019
It's with great sadness we advise of the passing of one of the good guys of our sport. Ray Tibbitts passed at 5pm Sunday 29th September at North Shore Hospital surrounded by his loved ones. Our condolences to the family for one of the gentlemen of our sport.
Passing of Barry Nichols
25 September 2019
It is with great sadness that we advise that long time Wellington Softball Stalwart Barry Nichols passed away yesterday. Barry had a long and passionate playing history for his club Melrose, as well as representing Wellington and NZ. Funeral service details to follow.
Passing of Dave Sorenson
16 May 2019
It is with great sadness that I advise of the passing of David Sorenson. Dave passed in the early hours surrounded by his loving family.
Dave is a true legend of our game and a Softball NZ and International Softball Hall of Fame inductee. Our deepest sympathies to Maureen, Mark, and the entire Sorenson family at this sad time.
Tony Giles
Softball NZ, CEO
Passing of Merv Clyma
21 January 2019
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of Merv Clyma. He was one of the greats of Otago Softball and made a huge contribution to the sport over nearly 50 years.
Passing of Des McCammon
1 November 2018
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of Des McCammon passed away suddenly in Dunedin last week.
Des was a well known figure in Otago Softball, a SNZ Umpire and past President of the Ellis Park Softball Club, plus a member of the Otago Association for many years.
Des was also one of the founders of the SNZ Junior Advisory Board, being Chairman of this also.
Passing of Megan Tasker
14 September 2018
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of former White Sox player Megan Tasker.
Megan lost her battle with cancer in Melbourne yesterday. Condolences to Megan’s family and all those that were lucky enough to have known her.
We will release service details as they come to hand.
RIP Megan.
Passing of Dave Wall
14 July 2016
It comes with great sadness to inform you all of the passing of Dave Wall. Dave passed away peacefully at his home yesterday, 13 July.
Through the years Dave has been a member of Birkenhead Derori and Northcote clubs within North Harbour along with having been a Representative Player and Representative Coach with our Association.
Dave’s father was John Wall, a North Harbour Chief Umpire and Life Member.
Our thoughts are with Dave’s family at this time.
A service for Dave will be held at the North Harbour Chapel of Dil’s Funeral Services 185 Schnapper Rock Road Albany, on Saturday 16 July at 10.00am followed by private cremation.
Passing of Keith Gerre
29 December 2015
Keith Garrie played in the North Island teams v South Island teams and also was picked for the early New Zealand Teams. He was a first basemen. He played for the Miramar Club and represented Wellington for many years. He is a life member of the Miramar Club. He did the announcing of softball games on TV for many years.
He was also a New Zealand Councillor for many years. ( Probably over 20 years) He has a Distinguished Service award with Softball New Zealand. He was the main driver for the development of Haitaiti Park. Keith worked for lighting firms outside Softball and he was involved in the designing and lighting of all the first softball fields to put in lighting.
After moving to the North Shore he started up kids softball and took the first North Shore, as it was known then, to a National tournament where they finished up in the playoffs. As you can see he was very involved with softball and had a big influence in the game.
The Funeral is at 1:00 PM Wednesday 30th December at Dills on Snapper Rock Road on the North Shore.
Passing of Athol Bell
29 October 2015
Athol Bell passed away in Invercargill on 29 Oct 2015. He was a Softball NZ Board Member, a Distinguished Service award recipient and a Life Member of the Southland Softball Association...more
Passing of Keith Dare
29 October 2015
Well Known SNZ Umpire and Scorer. Keith Dare passed away on Wednesday afternoon, 28th October 2015. Keith will always be remember for his witty Jokes, his seriousness and his love of life
Keith passed away at his home, in the loving company of his wife Ruth, Daughter and Son-in-law Kirsty and Shaun and Granddaughter Tasha.
He will be sadly missed by all who knew him
Funeral notice will be in the paper tomorrow.
Funeral as follows: Dunstals Funeral Home – Napier. 10am Tuesday Morning
All communication to. 4 Merton Cres., Pirimai. Napier
Information supplied by Ronnie Gurney
Passing of Bev Chote
7 September 2015
As a lot of you may have heard by now it is with our Deepest Sympathy that we advise you all of the passing of Mt Albert Ramblers life member and first lady Bev Chote.
Bev's funeral will be on Thursday, 1pm at Ramblers Softball Club. Cornwallis Street, St Lukes.
Any queries, direct to: ramblerssoftball@xtra.co.nz
Kevin McMillan
Community Development Officer, Auckland Softball Association
Passing of Alex Carter
1 September 2015
It is with much sadness we advise that Alex Carter passed away today. Alex was a long time servant to the Porirua City United Softball Club as Coach of the Premier 1 Women’s Team, former coach of Under U15 Boys and U18 Girls teams respectively and over the last few years served as Club Captain. Alex worked tirelessly to ensure that PCU had a voice within the wider Wellington Community and was an advocate for players and the Porirua Softball community.
In 2012, at the Porirua Sports Awards, Alex was awarded Coach of the Year and latterly the Trish McKelvey Volunteer Leadership Award by Sport Wellington, in recognition of his contribution to the game of softball.
Alex was also acknowledged and recognised for his international coaching of the New Zealand Development Team which saw many of those players reach future honours of Junior White Sox.
Alex will be driven to a Marae in Turangi on Wednesday, 2 Sept for a service on Friday.
A service will be held at 6pm tonight (1 Sept) at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Chapel, 50 Ngatitoa Street, Porirua
Passing of Lance McDonald
25 July 15
It is with sadness that I advise the passing of Lance Macdonald (Kevin Lance) on 10 July at his home in Melbourne.
Lance played for Kotuku in Levin for many seasons and coached their Women’s Team also. He was a Horowhenua Rep in the late 1970’s and the early 1980’s.
He moved to Melbourne, Australia, and was Head Coach for the Victorian Open Men’s Team from 1991 to 1997, the Under-23 Men’s Team in 2002/2003, as well as holding Assistant Coaching positions across other Men’s Teams during this time.
Lance was buried at Levin on Saturday 19 July, 2015.
John W Mudgway
(Some information supplied by Softball Victoria, Australia)
Passing of Charles (Buddy) Corlett
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... more
Passing of Kevin Bruce
Kia Ora Softball Whanau
WBOP Softball lost it's pioneer today; Mr Kevin Bruce.
All who knew him knew the love and passion he had for the game and how many tireless hours both he and his wife put in to give us a well oiled competition from junior to senior, for so many years. His dedication to be a part of this years men's Evergreens with his ailing health, just showed how much of a legend he was. To the Bruce family; our deepest sympathies and love from all your softball whanau.
Kevin's service is being held at Pyes Pa Chapel, Tauranga. on Tuesday 12th May at 11am.
Please spread the word to all softball whanau present and past and let's give Kevin the send off he deserves.
Linda Thurlow
WBOP Softball
Passing of Phil Packer
13 October 14
It is with sadness we advise of the passing of Phil Packer on Sunday.
Phil had a known medical condition and his death was not unexpected. Phil, a Level 5 umpire, was a Life Member of the Hutt Valley Umpires Association and their President for the last six years.
His comradeship and leadership will be sadly missed.
In lieu of flowers donations to Te Omanga Hospice would be appreciated and may be left at the service or posted to
PO Box 30-814
Lower Hutt, 5040
Phil will be at home until the day of his service, friends and acquaintances are very welcome to visit. A service to celebrate Phil's life will be held in the Silverstream Retreat, 3 Reynolds Bach Drive, Silverstream on Friday October 17, 2014 at 11:00am followed by private cremation, All messages may be left on Phil's tribute page at www.heavenaddress.co.nz or posted to "the Packer family" c/o PO Box 30-127, Lower Hutt, 5040
Passing of Wayne Roper
7 October 2014
It is with great sadness we announce to the wider softball community the passing of a great man, a loyal friend, who was a dedicated and treasured member of our club, our Premier Woman's coach Wayne Roper.
After a long and courageous fight with cancer, Wayne painlessly left us on Wednesday 8th October at 730am at home surrounded by loved ones. He will be missed not just at around our club but within the softball community.
Wayne accepted the challenge to coach the Otahuhu Premier Women's team in 2005 (comprising mostly of junior players with an average age of 16 years). With his passion for developing players and dedication to the game he built the team to become Auckland champions in 2013 and make NZ Club Nationals top 4, 4 out of the last 5 years, along with 1 finals appearance.
Wayne also contributed to coaching numerous Auckland representative teams from U17s through to NPC (now NFC) over a number of years, as well as coaching local school teams in our community.
His contributions to our club and the premier women's team will indeed be greatly missed, as will his presence around softball diamonds in coming seasons.
Wayne was nicknamed "Harry hard out" by the premier woman due to his unrelenting dedication to planning everything softball in his life all year round.
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his whanau Katherine; Dayne, Casey, Mike & Manny; Kirby and their extended family during this time.
Further details will follow.
Rest in peace Wayne, you will be greatly missed.
Otahuhu Softball Club Executive Committee
Passing of Margaret Adsett
6 October 2014
It is with our deepest regret that we inform you of the passing of ASA Life Member Margaret Adsett yesterday. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this tough time.
A Requiem Mass to Celebrate Margaret's life will be held at the Holy Cross Catholic Church, corner View and Lavelle Roads, Henderson on Wednesday 8 October 2014 at 10:30 am. A Rosary service for Margaret will be held in the Main Chapel of the Morrison Funeral Home, 220 Universal Drive, Henderson on Tuesday 7 October 2014 at 7:00pm
Passing of Brian Jones
29 September 2014
The Funeral for Brian is being held on Thursday at 11.00 am at Purewa Cemetary and Crematorium, 100-102 St Johns Rd, On behalf of the ASA we would like to thank all our AFC teams that paid their respect to Brian yesterday prior to their games. His wife has been deeply moved by this and we know how much this would have meant to Brian. Thank you everyone.
Passing of Harriette Rangi
8 September 2014
Harriette Rangi, friend, Hawkes Bay and NZ Scorer, past Coach and administrator passed away this morning.
Her Tangi will be notified. Messages to 409 Southampton Street Hastings.
Passing of Stan Smith
The peaceful death early this morning of Stan Smith marked the passing of a man widely regarded as the father of Southland softball who had maintained a lifetime interest in the sport. Widely known throughout New Zealand for the part he played in his continuous promotion of our wonderful sport, Stan became involved at Southland level soon after returning home after first encountering softball while serving in the Pacific Islands with the RNZAF.
Passing of John Eagar
29 April 2014
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of John Eagar. John was an International Umpire, a member of the CSA Executive, a founding worker at Softball HQ and a recipient of the SNZ Distinguished Service Award. He was also Patron of Army Softball. ohn was made a Life Member of Canterbury Softball, along with his wife Peg, in 1995. Our condolences to the Eagar Family.
A fitting acknowledgement of John's army softball career written by Dean Groves. He touched the lives of many softballers both in New Zealand and overseas and will be sadly missed. Passing of John Eagar. Download here
Passing of Joseph (Seph) Porteous
07 May 2013
Softball New Zealand is sad to announce the passing of another Softball legend. Joseph (Seph) Porteous died peacefully in his home in Huntly on May 4th 2013. He was 87...more
Passing of John Voyle
14 February 2013
Former Softball New Zealand CEO John Voyle passed away peacefully on Thursday 14th of February after a short illness in Whakatane Hospital aged 64...more
Passing of Trevor Harold Rowse
16 February 2013
It is with deep regret that we note, Trevor Rowse is not writing this article, because it is about him, the man who kept us up-to-date with written submissions about softball and the events of the day...more
Passing of Mel England
3 January 2013
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Mel England, 31 January. Mel a huge advocate for Hawke's Bay Softball and our game was a true personality a will be truly missed...more
Passing of Leo Falleni
6 January 2013
The man who reported on the White Sox sole world championship success Leo Falleni died in Wellington on 6 January. Falleni, 84, was the media representative with the 1982 team that won the world crown in Taiwan ... more
Passing of Terry Bell
12 December 2012
Softball NZ sadly announces the passing of former softball great Terry Bell from the Hutt Valley. Sixty six year old Bell passed away on 10 December after a long illness...more
Passing of Sue Jacobs
21 July 2012
We have also lost one of the stars of the game in Susan Jacobs who was finally beaten by a degenerative disease which ended a sporting life of real excellence...more
Passing of Ima Hodges
17 February 2012
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our senior Softball NZ scorers, Ima Hodges on Friday 17 February. Ima became ill at the South Island Under 15 tournament in January and unfortunately passed away in Dunedin Hospital...more
Passing of Tom Kingi
24 January 2012
It is with sadness that a stalwart and icon of Counties Manukau softball Tom Kingi passed away. Tom coached and supported many of the softball players over the years and is hugely respected for his dedication and love for the game. He will be sorely missed…more
Passing of Eric Kohlhase
28 October 2011
Softball New Zealand sadly announces the passing of Eric Kohlhase; a great man and softball icon...more
Passing of Lou Brewer
1 October 2011
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Lou Brewer, wife of Don Bewer. Lou passed last Saturday after a year long illness...more
Passing of Bob Hutchinson
21 September 2011
Bob Hutchinson passed away yesterday - 21 Sept. At this time we do not have any information on funeral arrangements but as they are known they will be advised...more
Passing of Wayne Arthurs
5 September 2011
It is with great sadness we advise of the passing of Wayne Arthurs on Monday the 5th September. Wayne had suffered from cancer in recent years...more
Passing of Niall Campbell
25 August 2011
A great stalwart of Southland Softball was lost last week with the passing of Niall Campbell on August 25 at the age of 86...more
Passing of Lindsay Anderson
23 May 2011
The softball communities on both sides of the Tasman are mourning former Canterbury and South Island infielder Lindsay Anderson...more
Passing of Joyce Phillips
6 May 2011
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Joyce Phillips who was Umpire in Chief for Canterbury for many years...more
Passing of Paul (Pixie) Rogers
4 April 2011
It is with sadness that we inform everyone that Paul (Pixie) Rogers, the veteran of the first four tilts at the world series of softball, has died after a short illness...more
Passing of Ross Smith
30 Dec 2010
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Black Sox legend and SNZ Hall of Fame member Ross Smith... more
Passing of Dorothy Tricker
14 Sep 2010
Passing of Dorothy Tricker Dorothy Edith Tricker (Dot) – 77, peacefully passed away at Keneperu Hospital on Saturday (11th September) Dearly loved wife of the late Brian and mother of Don Tricker... more
Passing of A.C. Williams
2 Sep 2010
A.C. Williams, Prescott's amateur softball pionees, dies A C Williams The relationship between Softball New Zealand and A C Williams spanned almost 40 years... more
Passing of Jamie Campbell
16 August 2010
NZ Softball lost one of its greats of yesteryear with the passing of outstanding third baseman and batter Jamie Campbell in Invercargill on Saturday... more
Passing of Vance Foster
28 June 2010
I first remember Vance as a mechanic at NZPO/Telecom, but over the years it has been mostly through softball that our lives have been so intertwined. He wasn’t one of those people who played through the age groups and then went on to play senior softball before taking up umpiring ...more
Passing of Lesley Byrne
29 May 2010
It is with great sadness I advise that Lesley Byrne passed away this morning (28th May). Lesley was known to many of us as the long serving Executive Officer of Papanui Softball Club until recent times ...more
Passing of Joyce Smith
21 Nov 2009
Passing of Joyce Smith New Zealand softball lost an icon of our sport early this morning Wednesday October 21) with the unexpected passing of life member Joyce Smith (83) in Invercargill's Southland Hospital after a brief illness (for more refer to link at the top of the page).
Passing of Bruce McCarrison
22 June 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Bruce McCarrison.
Passing of Haydn Smith
21 April 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Haydn Smith.
Passing of John Manning
15 April 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of John Manning .
Passing of Ray Timu
18 March 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Ray Timu.
Passing of Janice Foote
11 February 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Janice Foote.
Passing of Michael Mulholland
7 February 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Michael Mulholland.
Passing of Edward Nichols
15 January 2024
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Edward Nichols.
Passing of Stu Hodges
20 September 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Stu Hodges
Passing of Colleen Callaghan
1 September 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Colleen Callaghan.
Passing of Jean Gould
10 August 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Jean Gould.
Passing of Malcolm Wright
23 June 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Malcolm.
Passing of Linda Wood
9 March 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Linda Wood.
Passing of Arnie Hall
30 January 2023
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Arnie Hall.
Passing of Rob Siolo
27 October 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Rob Siolo.
Passing of Barrie Whittaker
13 September 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Barrie Whittaker.
Passing of Paul Stockford
23 August 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Paul Stockford.
Passing of Jack Rochford
28 June 2022
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Jack Rochford.
Passing of Ray Cranch
14 October 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Ray Cranch.
Passing of Trevor Pinchen
12 October 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Trevor Pinchen.
Passing of Mel Davies
31 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Mel Davies.
Passing of John Dawson
31 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of John Dawson.
Passing of Elaine Karsten
23 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Elaine Karsten.
Passing of Russell Moffatt
12 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Russell Moffat.
Passing of Martha Rush
9 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Martha Rush.
Passing of Bruce Bishop
7 August 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Bruce Bishop.
Passing of Lana Kinghorn
9 July 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Lana Kinghorn.
Passing of Ron Jackson
21 May 2021
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Ron Jackson.
Passing of Elva Jennings
10 January 2021
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of a well-known and respected lady of Hutt Valley Softball.
Elva Jennings passed away 10 January 2021 aged 86. Elva was a Life Member of Hutt City United Softball and Hutt Valley Statisticians and Scorers. She was also a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from Hutt Valley Softball. Elva will be sorely missed, especially in the softball community and out thoughts and condolences go out to family and friends.
Funeral details to follow.
Passing of Graham Latta
28 December 2020
It is with sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Graham Latta on Saturday 26 December 2020. Graham had been a Life Member of the Association since 1987, and Patron since 2014. Graham was an outstanding contributor to the association in a variety of administrative and coaching/management roles throughout his life including three stints as President of the Association. He also served on the Council and then Board of Softball NZ from 1990 until 2000 and received a "Distinguished Service Award" from Softball NZ. His historical records for both Southland and New Zealand were incredibly thorough and detailed.
Passing of Bill Massey
July 2020
It is with great sadness we inform you on the passing of one of our sports greats in Bill Massey.
Bill passed peacefully this morning surrounded by his loving family.
Bill was a member of the team colloquially known as the Pilgrims, and attended the first two men’s world championships in Mexico City, 1966, and Oklahoma City in 1968.
He was dubbed Mr Softball by the New Zealand media at the peak of his career as one of the worlds most feared pitchers.
Bill was inducted into the World Softball Hall of Fame in 2019 and a special presentation was made to him during the WBSC U18 Men’s Softball World Cup in Palmerston North earlier this year.
Passing of Bob Roff
7 July 2020
Passing of Annie Lineham
16 June 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Annie Lineham.
Passing of Steven Mulholland
2 June 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Steven Harold Mulholland.
Passing of George Woodcock
23 March 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of George Woodcock.
Passing of Dennis Russell
14 February 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Dennis Russell.
Passing of Rangi Muller
11 February 2020
It is with a heavy heart that we have to report the passing of a grand old lady of New Zealand Softbal. Rangi Muller passed away in Rotorua on the 8th February, aged just short of 95 years.
Passing of Irene Keating
11 February 2020
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Irene Keating just recently.
Passing of Dennis Ormsby
December 2019
It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Dennis Ormsby.
Passing of Ray Tibbitts
30 September 2019
It's with great sadness we advise of the passing of one of the good guys of our sport. Ray Tibbitts passed at 5pm Sunday 29th September at North Shore Hospital surrounded by his loved ones. Our condolences to the family for one of the gentlemen of our sport.
Passing of Barry Nichols
25 September 2019
It is with great sadness that we advise that long time Wellington Softball Stalwart Barry Nichols passed away yesterday. Barry had a long and passionate playing history for his club Melrose, as well as representing Wellington and NZ. Funeral service details to follow.
Passing of Dave Sorenson
16 May 2019
It is with great sadness that I advise of the passing of David Sorenson. Dave passed in the early hours surrounded by his loving family.
Dave is a true legend of our game and a Softball NZ and International Softball Hall of Fame inductee. Our deepest sympathies to Maureen, Mark, and the entire Sorenson family at this sad time.
Tony Giles
Softball NZ, CEO
Passing of Merv Clyma
21 January 2019
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of Merv Clyma. He was one of the greats of Otago Softball and made a huge contribution to the sport over nearly 50 years.
Passing of Des McCammon
1 November 2018
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of Des McCammon passed away suddenly in Dunedin last week.
Des was a well known figure in Otago Softball, a SNZ Umpire and past President of the Ellis Park Softball Club, plus a member of the Otago Association for many years.
Des was also one of the founders of the SNZ Junior Advisory Board, being Chairman of this also.
Passing of Megan Tasker
14 September 2018
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of former White Sox player Megan Tasker.
Megan lost her battle with cancer in Melbourne yesterday. Condolences to Megan’s family and all those that were lucky enough to have known her.
We will release service details as they come to hand.
RIP Megan.
Passing of Dave Wall
14 July 2016
It comes with great sadness to inform you all of the passing of Dave Wall. Dave passed away peacefully at his home yesterday, 13 July.
Through the years Dave has been a member of Birkenhead Derori and Northcote clubs within North Harbour along with having been a Representative Player and Representative Coach with our Association.
Dave’s father was John Wall, a North Harbour Chief Umpire and Life Member.
Our thoughts are with Dave’s family at this time.
A service for Dave will be held at the North Harbour Chapel of Dil’s Funeral Services 185 Schnapper Rock Road Albany, on Saturday 16 July at 10.00am followed by private cremation.
Passing of Keith Gerre
29 December 2015
Keith Garrie played in the North Island teams v South Island teams and also was picked for the early New Zealand Teams. He was a first basemen. He played for the Miramar Club and represented Wellington for many years. He is a life member of the Miramar Club. He did the announcing of softball games on TV for many years.
He was also a New Zealand Councillor for many years. ( Probably over 20 years) He has a Distinguished Service award with Softball New Zealand. He was the main driver for the development of Haitaiti Park. Keith worked for lighting firms outside Softball and he was involved in the designing and lighting of all the first softball fields to put in lighting.
After moving to the North Shore he started up kids softball and took the first North Shore, as it was known then, to a National tournament where they finished up in the playoffs. As you can see he was very involved with softball and had a big influence in the game.
The Funeral is at 1:00 PM Wednesday 30th December at Dills on Snapper Rock Road on the North Shore.
Passing of Athol Bell
29 October 2015
Athol Bell passed away in Invercargill on 29 Oct 2015. He was a Softball NZ Board Member, a Distinguished Service award recipient and a Life Member of the Southland Softball Association...more
Passing of Keith Dare
29 October 2015
Well Known SNZ Umpire and Scorer. Keith Dare passed away on Wednesday afternoon, 28th October 2015. Keith will always be remember for his witty Jokes, his seriousness and his love of life
Keith passed away at his home, in the loving company of his wife Ruth, Daughter and Son-in-law Kirsty and Shaun and Granddaughter Tasha.
He will be sadly missed by all who knew him
Funeral notice will be in the paper tomorrow.
Funeral as follows: Dunstals Funeral Home – Napier. 10am Tuesday Morning
All communication to. 4 Merton Cres., Pirimai. Napier
Information supplied by Ronnie Gurney
Passing of Bev Chote
7 September 2015
As a lot of you may have heard by now it is with our Deepest Sympathy that we advise you all of the passing of Mt Albert Ramblers life member and first lady Bev Chote.
Bev's funeral will be on Thursday, 1pm at Ramblers Softball Club. Cornwallis Street, St Lukes.
Any queries, direct to: ramblerssoftball@xtra.co.nz
Kevin McMillan
Community Development Officer, Auckland Softball Association
Passing of Alex Carter
1 September 2015
It is with much sadness we advise that Alex Carter passed away today. Alex was a long time servant to the Porirua City United Softball Club as Coach of the Premier 1 Women’s Team, former coach of Under U15 Boys and U18 Girls teams respectively and over the last few years served as Club Captain. Alex worked tirelessly to ensure that PCU had a voice within the wider Wellington Community and was an advocate for players and the Porirua Softball community.
In 2012, at the Porirua Sports Awards, Alex was awarded Coach of the Year and latterly the Trish McKelvey Volunteer Leadership Award by Sport Wellington, in recognition of his contribution to the game of softball.
Alex was also acknowledged and recognised for his international coaching of the New Zealand Development Team which saw many of those players reach future honours of Junior White Sox.
Alex will be driven to a Marae in Turangi on Wednesday, 2 Sept for a service on Friday.
A service will be held at 6pm tonight (1 Sept) at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Chapel, 50 Ngatitoa Street, Porirua
Passing of Lance McDonald
25 July 15
It is with sadness that I advise the passing of Lance Macdonald (Kevin Lance) on 10 July at his home in Melbourne.
Lance played for Kotuku in Levin for many seasons and coached their Women’s Team also. He was a Horowhenua Rep in the late 1970’s and the early 1980’s.
He moved to Melbourne, Australia, and was Head Coach for the Victorian Open Men’s Team from 1991 to 1997, the Under-23 Men’s Team in 2002/2003, as well as holding Assistant Coaching positions across other Men’s Teams during this time.
Lance was buried at Levin on Saturday 19 July, 2015.
John W Mudgway
(Some information supplied by Softball Victoria, Australia)
Passing of Charles (Buddy) Corlett
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... more
Passing of Kevin Bruce
Kia Ora Softball Whanau
WBOP Softball lost it's pioneer today; Mr Kevin Bruce.
All who knew him knew the love and passion he had for the game and how many tireless hours both he and his wife put in to give us a well oiled competition from junior to senior, for so many years. His dedication to be a part of this years men's Evergreens with his ailing health, just showed how much of a legend he was. To the Bruce family; our deepest sympathies and love from all your softball whanau.
Kevin's service is being held at Pyes Pa Chapel, Tauranga. on Tuesday 12th May at 11am.
Please spread the word to all softball whanau present and past and let's give Kevin the send off he deserves.
Linda Thurlow
WBOP Softball
Passing of Phil Packer
13 October 14
It is with sadness we advise of the passing of Phil Packer on Sunday.
Phil had a known medical condition and his death was not unexpected. Phil, a Level 5 umpire, was a Life Member of the Hutt Valley Umpires Association and their President for the last six years.
His comradeship and leadership will be sadly missed.
In lieu of flowers donations to Te Omanga Hospice would be appreciated and may be left at the service or posted to
PO Box 30-814
Lower Hutt, 5040
Phil will be at home until the day of his service, friends and acquaintances are very welcome to visit. A service to celebrate Phil's life will be held in the Silverstream Retreat, 3 Reynolds Bach Drive, Silverstream on Friday October 17, 2014 at 11:00am followed by private cremation, All messages may be left on Phil's tribute page at www.heavenaddress.co.nz or posted to "the Packer family" c/o PO Box 30-127, Lower Hutt, 5040
Passing of Wayne Roper
7 October 2014
It is with great sadness we announce to the wider softball community the passing of a great man, a loyal friend, who was a dedicated and treasured member of our club, our Premier Woman's coach Wayne Roper.
After a long and courageous fight with cancer, Wayne painlessly left us on Wednesday 8th October at 730am at home surrounded by loved ones. He will be missed not just at around our club but within the softball community.
Wayne accepted the challenge to coach the Otahuhu Premier Women's team in 2005 (comprising mostly of junior players with an average age of 16 years). With his passion for developing players and dedication to the game he built the team to become Auckland champions in 2013 and make NZ Club Nationals top 4, 4 out of the last 5 years, along with 1 finals appearance.
Wayne also contributed to coaching numerous Auckland representative teams from U17s through to NPC (now NFC) over a number of years, as well as coaching local school teams in our community.
His contributions to our club and the premier women's team will indeed be greatly missed, as will his presence around softball diamonds in coming seasons.
Wayne was nicknamed "Harry hard out" by the premier woman due to his unrelenting dedication to planning everything softball in his life all year round.
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his whanau Katherine; Dayne, Casey, Mike & Manny; Kirby and their extended family during this time.
Further details will follow.
Rest in peace Wayne, you will be greatly missed.
Otahuhu Softball Club Executive Committee
Passing of Margaret Adsett
6 October 2014
It is with our deepest regret that we inform you of the passing of ASA Life Member Margaret Adsett yesterday. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this tough time.
A Requiem Mass to Celebrate Margaret's life will be held at the Holy Cross Catholic Church, corner View and Lavelle Roads, Henderson on Wednesday 8 October 2014 at 10:30 am. A Rosary service for Margaret will be held in the Main Chapel of the Morrison Funeral Home, 220 Universal Drive, Henderson on Tuesday 7 October 2014 at 7:00pm
Passing of Brian Jones
29 September 2014
The Funeral for Brian is being held on Thursday at 11.00 am at Purewa Cemetary and Crematorium, 100-102 St Johns Rd, On behalf of the ASA we would like to thank all our AFC teams that paid their respect to Brian yesterday prior to their games. His wife has been deeply moved by this and we know how much this would have meant to Brian. Thank you everyone.
Passing of Harriette Rangi
8 September 2014
Harriette Rangi, friend, Hawkes Bay and NZ Scorer, past Coach and administrator passed away this morning.
Her Tangi will be notified. Messages to 409 Southampton Street Hastings.
Passing of Stan Smith
The peaceful death early this morning of Stan Smith marked the passing of a man widely regarded as the father of Southland softball who had maintained a lifetime interest in the sport. Widely known throughout New Zealand for the part he played in his continuous promotion of our wonderful sport, Stan became involved at Southland level soon after returning home after first encountering softball while serving in the Pacific Islands with the RNZAF.
Passing of John Eagar
29 April 2014
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of John Eagar. John was an International Umpire, a member of the CSA Executive, a founding worker at Softball HQ and a recipient of the SNZ Distinguished Service Award. He was also Patron of Army Softball. ohn was made a Life Member of Canterbury Softball, along with his wife Peg, in 1995. Our condolences to the Eagar Family.
A fitting acknowledgement of John's army softball career written by Dean Groves. He touched the lives of many softballers both in New Zealand and overseas and will be sadly missed. Passing of John Eagar. Download here
Passing of Joseph (Seph) Porteous
07 May 2013
Softball New Zealand is sad to announce the passing of another Softball legend. Joseph (Seph) Porteous died peacefully in his home in Huntly on May 4th 2013. He was 87...more
Passing of John Voyle
14 February 2013
Former Softball New Zealand CEO John Voyle passed away peacefully on Thursday 14th of February after a short illness in Whakatane Hospital aged 64...more
Passing of Trevor Harold Rowse
16 February 2013
It is with deep regret that we note, Trevor Rowse is not writing this article, because it is about him, the man who kept us up-to-date with written submissions about softball and the events of the day...more
Passing of Mel England
3 January 2013
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Mel England, 31 January. Mel a huge advocate for Hawke's Bay Softball and our game was a true personality a will be truly missed...more
Passing of Leo Falleni
6 January 2013
The man who reported on the White Sox sole world championship success Leo Falleni died in Wellington on 6 January. Falleni, 84, was the media representative with the 1982 team that won the world crown in Taiwan ... more
Passing of Terry Bell
12 December 2012
Softball NZ sadly announces the passing of former softball great Terry Bell from the Hutt Valley. Sixty six year old Bell passed away on 10 December after a long illness...more
Passing of Sue Jacobs
21 July 2012
We have also lost one of the stars of the game in Susan Jacobs who was finally beaten by a degenerative disease which ended a sporting life of real excellence...more
Passing of Ima Hodges
17 February 2012
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our senior Softball NZ scorers, Ima Hodges on Friday 17 February. Ima became ill at the South Island Under 15 tournament in January and unfortunately passed away in Dunedin Hospital...more
Passing of Tom Kingi
24 January 2012
It is with sadness that a stalwart and icon of Counties Manukau softball Tom Kingi passed away. Tom coached and supported many of the softball players over the years and is hugely respected for his dedication and love for the game. He will be sorely missed…more
Passing of Eric Kohlhase
28 October 2011
Softball New Zealand sadly announces the passing of Eric Kohlhase; a great man and softball icon...more
Passing of Lou Brewer
1 October 2011
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Lou Brewer, wife of Don Bewer. Lou passed last Saturday after a year long illness...more
Passing of Bob Hutchinson
21 September 2011
Bob Hutchinson passed away yesterday - 21 Sept. At this time we do not have any information on funeral arrangements but as they are known they will be advised...more
Passing of Wayne Arthurs
5 September 2011
It is with great sadness we advise of the passing of Wayne Arthurs on Monday the 5th September. Wayne had suffered from cancer in recent years...more
Passing of Niall Campbell
25 August 2011
A great stalwart of Southland Softball was lost last week with the passing of Niall Campbell on August 25 at the age of 86...more
Passing of Lindsay Anderson
23 May 2011
The softball communities on both sides of the Tasman are mourning former Canterbury and South Island infielder Lindsay Anderson...more
Passing of Joyce Phillips
6 May 2011
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Joyce Phillips who was Umpire in Chief for Canterbury for many years...more
Passing of Paul (Pixie) Rogers
4 April 2011
It is with sadness that we inform everyone that Paul (Pixie) Rogers, the veteran of the first four tilts at the world series of softball, has died after a short illness...more
Passing of Ross Smith
30 Dec 2010
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Black Sox legend and SNZ Hall of Fame member Ross Smith... more
Passing of Dorothy Tricker
14 Sep 2010
Passing of Dorothy Tricker Dorothy Edith Tricker (Dot) – 77, peacefully passed away at Keneperu Hospital on Saturday (11th September) Dearly loved wife of the late Brian and mother of Don Tricker... more
Passing of A.C. Williams
2 Sep 2010
A.C. Williams, Prescott's amateur softball pionees, dies A C Williams The relationship between Softball New Zealand and A C Williams spanned almost 40 years... more
Passing of Jamie Campbell
16 August 2010
NZ Softball lost one of its greats of yesteryear with the passing of outstanding third baseman and batter Jamie Campbell in Invercargill on Saturday... more
Passing of Vance Foster
28 June 2010
I first remember Vance as a mechanic at NZPO/Telecom, but over the years it has been mostly through softball that our lives have been so intertwined. He wasn’t one of those people who played through the age groups and then went on to play senior softball before taking up umpiring ...more
Passing of Lesley Byrne
29 May 2010
It is with great sadness I advise that Lesley Byrne passed away this morning (28th May). Lesley was known to many of us as the long serving Executive Officer of Papanui Softball Club until recent times ...more
Passing of Joyce Smith
21 Nov 2009
Passing of Joyce Smith New Zealand softball lost an icon of our sport early this morning Wednesday October 21) with the unexpected passing of life member Joyce Smith (83) in Invercargill's Southland Hospital after a brief illness (for more refer to link at the top of the page).
24 Dec 2015
Keith Gerrie played for North Island teams on three occasions, 1957, 59 and 60, and played for New Zealand against the Rest in 1955, 58 and 61 as a first basemen...more
Passing of Athol Bell
29 Oct 2015
Athol Bell passed away in Invercargill on 29 Oct 2015. He was a Softball NZ Board Member, a Distinguished Service award recipient and a Life Member of the Southland Softball Association...more
Passing of Keith Dare
29 Oct 2015
Well Known SNZ Umpire and Scorer. Keith Dare passed away on Wednesday afternoon, 28th October 2015. Keith will always be remember for his witty Jokes, his seriousness and his love of life
Keith passed away at his home, in the loving company of his wife Ruth, Daughter and Son-in-law Kirsty and Shaun and Granddaughter Tasha.
He will be sadly missed by all who knew him
Funeral notice will be in the paper tomorrow.
Funeral as follows: Dunstals Funeral Home – Napier. 10am Tuesday Morning
All communication to. 4 Merton Cres., Pirimai. Napier
Information supplied by Ronnie Gurney
Passing of Bev Chote
7 Sept 2015
As a lot of you may have heard by now it is with our Deepest Sympathy that we advise you all of the passing of Mt Albert Ramblers life member and first lady Bev Chote.
Bev's funeral will be on Thursday, 1pm at Ramblers Softball Club. Cornwallis Street, St Lukes.Any queries, direct to: ramblerssoftball@xtra.co.nz
Kevin McMillan
Community Development Officer, Auckland Softball Association
Passing of Alex Carter
1/9/2015
It is with much sadness we advise that Alex Carter passed away today. Alex was a long time servant to the Porirua City United Softball Club as Coach of the Premier 1 Women’s Team, former coach of Under U15 Boys and U18 Girls teams respectively and over the last few years served as Club Captain. Alex worked tirelessly to ensure that PCU had a voice within the wider Wellington Community and was an advocate for players and the Porirua Softball community.
In 2012, at the Porirua Sports Awards, Alex was awarded Coach of the Year and latterly the Trish McKelvey Volunteer Leadership Award by Sport Wellington, in recognition of his contribution to the game of softball.
Alex was also acknowledged and recognised for his international coaching of the New Zealand Development Team which saw many of those players reach future honours of Junior White Sox.
Alex will be driven to a Marae in Turangi on Wednesday, 2 Sept for a service on Friday.
A service will be held at 6pm tonight (1 Sept) at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Chapel, 50 Ngatitoa Street, Porirua
Passing of Lance McDonald
25/7/15
It is with sadness that I advise the passing of Lance Macdonald (Kevin Lance) on 10 July at his home in Melbourne.
Lance played for Kotuku in Levin for many seasons and coached their Women’s Team also. He was a Horowhenua Rep in the late 1970’s and the early 1980’s.
He moved to Melbourne, Australia, and was Head Coach for the Victorian Open Men’s Team from 1991 to 1997, the Under-23 Men’s Team in 2002/2003, as well as holding Assistant Coaching positions across other Men’s Teams during this time.
Lance was buried at Levin on Saturday 19 July, 2015.
John W Mudgway
(Some information supplied by Softball Victoria, Australia)
Passing of Charles (Buddy) Corlett
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... more
Passing of Kevin Bruce
Kia Ora Softball Whanau
WBOP Softball lost it's pioneer today; Mr Kevin Bruce.
All who knew him knew the love and passion he had for the game and how many tireless hours both he and his wife put in to give us a well oiled competition from junior to senior, for so many years. His dedication to be a part of this years men's Evergreens with his ailing health, just showed how much of a legend he was. To the Bruce family; our deepest sympathies and love from all your softball whanau.
Kevin's service is being held at Pyes Pa Chapel, Tauranga. on Tuesday 12th May at 11am.
Please spread the word to all softball whanau present and past and let's give Kevin the send off he deserves.
Linda Thurlow
WBOP Softball
Passing of Phil Packer
13/10/14
It is with sadness we advise of the passing of Phil Packer on Sunday.
Phil had a known medical condition and his death was not unexpected. Phil, a Level 5 umpire, was a Life Member of the Hutt Valley Umpires Association and their President for the last six years.
His comradeship and leadership will be sadly missed.
In lieu of flowers donations to Te Omanga Hospice would be appreciated and may be left at the service or posted to
PO Box 30-814
Lower Hutt, 5040
Phil will be at home until the day of his service, friends and acquaintances are very welcome to visit. A service to celebrate Phil's life will be held in the Silverstream Retreat, 3 Reynolds Bach Drive, Silverstream on Friday October 17, 2014 at 11:00am followed by private cremation, All messages may be left on Phil's tribute page at www.heavenaddress.co.nz or posted to "the Packer family" c/o PO Box 30-127, Lower Hutt, 5040
Passing of Wayne Roper
7/10/2014
PASSING OF WAYNE ROPER
It is with great sadness we announce to the wider softball community the passing of a great man, a loyal friend, who was a dedicated and treasured member of our club, our Premier Woman's coach Wayne Roper.
After a long and courageous fight with cancer, Wayne painlessly left us on Wednesday 8th October at 730am at home surrounded by loved ones. He will be missed not just at around our club but within the softball community.
Wayne accepted the challenge to coach the Otahuhu Premier Women's team in 2005 (comprising mostly of junior players with an average age of 16 years). With his passion for developing players and dedication to the game he built the team to become Auckland champions in 2013 and make NZ Club Nationals top 4, 4 out of the last 5 years, along with 1 finals appearance.
Wayne also contributed to coaching numerous Auckland representative teams from U17s through to NPC (now NFC) over a number of years, as well as coaching local school teams in our community.
His contributions to our club and the premier women's team will indeed be greatly missed, as will his presence around softball diamonds in coming seasons.
Wayne was nicknamed "Harry hard out" by the premier woman due to his unrelenting dedication to planning everything softball in his life all year round.
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his whanau Katherine; Dayne, Casey, Mike & Manny; Kirby and their extended family during this time.
Further details will follow.
Rest in peace Wayne, you will be greatly missed.
Otahuhu Softball Club Executive Committee
Passing of Margaret Adsett
6/10/2014
It is with our deepest regret that we inform you of the passing of ASA Life Member Margaret Adsett yesterday. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this tough time.
A Requiem Mass to Celebrate Margaret's life will be held at the Holy Cross Catholic Church, corner View and Lavelle Roads, Henderson on Wednesday 8 October 2014 at 10:30 am. A Rosary service for Margaret will be held in the Main Chapel of the Morrison Funeral Home, 220 Universal Drive, Henderson on Tuesday 7 October 2014 at 7:00pm
Passing of Brian Jones
29/09/2014
The Funeral for Brian is being held on Thursday at 11.00 am at Purewa Cemetary and Crematorium, 100-102 St Johns Rd, On behalf of the ASA we would like to thank all our AFC teams that paid their respect to Brian yesterday prior to their games. His wife has been deeply moved by this and we know how much this would have meant to Brian. Thank you everyone.
Passing of Harriette Rangi
8/09/2014
Harriette Rangi, friend, Hawkes Bay and NZ Scorer, past Coach and administrator passed away this morning.
Her Tangi will be notified. Messages to 409 Southampton Street Hastings.
Passing of Stan Smith
The peaceful death early this morning of Stan Smith marked the passing of a man widely regarded as the father of Southland softball who had maintained a lifetime interest in the sport. Widely known throughout New Zealand for the part he played in his continuous promotion of our wonderful sport, Stan became involved at Southland level soon after returning home after first encountering softball while serving in the Pacific Islands with the RNZAF.
Passing of John Eagar
29/04/2014
It is with much sadness we advise the passing of John Eagar. John was an International Umpire, a member of the CSA Executive, a founding worker at Softball HQ and a recipient of the SNZ Distinguished Service Award. He was also Patron of Army Softball. ohn was made a Life Member of Canterbury Softball, along with his wife Peg, in 1995. Our condolences to the Eagar Family.
A fitting acknowledgement of John's army softball career written by Dean Groves. He touched the lives of many softballers both in New Zealand and overseas and will be sadly missed. Passing of John Eagar. Download here
Passing of Joseph (Seph) Porteous
07/05/2013
Softball New Zealand is sad to announce the passing of another Softball legend. Joseph (Seph) Porteous died peacefully in his home in Huntly on May 4th 2013. He was 87...more
Passing of John Voyle
14/02/2013
Former Softball New Zealand CEO John Voyle passed away peacefully on Thursday 14th of February after a short illness in Whakatane Hospital aged 64...more
In loving memory of Trevor Harold Rowse, 16 Nov 1935
16/02/2013
It is with deep regret that we note, Trevor Rowse is not writing this article, because it is about him, the man who kept us up-to-date with written submissions about softball and the events of the day...more
Passing of Mel England
31/01/2013
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Mel England, 31 January. Mel a huge advocate for Hawke's Bay Softball and our game was a true personality a will be truly missed...more
Passing of Leo Falleni
06/01/2013
The man who reported on the White Sox sole world championship success Leo Falleni died in Wellington on 6 January. Falleni, 84, was the media representative with the 1982 team that won the world crown in Taiwan...more
Passing of Terry Bell
12/12/2012
Softball NZ sadly announces the passing of former softball great Terry Bell from the Hutt Valley. Sixty six year old Bell passed away on 10 December after a long illness...more
Passing of Sue Jacobs
21/07/2012
Passing of Ima Hodges
17/02/2012
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our senior Softball NZ scorers, Ima Hodges on Friday 17 February. Ima became ill at the South Island Under 15 tournament in January and unfortunately passed away in Dunedin Hospital...more
Passing of Tom Kingi
24/01/2012
It is with sadness that a stalwart and icon of Counties Manukau softball Tom Kingi passed away. Tom coached and supported many of the softball players over the years and is hugely respected for his dedication and love for the game. He will be sorely missed…more
Passing of Eric Kohlhase
28/10/2011
Softball New Zealand sadly announces the passing of Eric Kohlhase; a great man and softball icon...more
Passing of Lou Brewer
1/10/2011
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Lou Brewer, wife of Don Bewer. Lou passed last Saturday after a year long illness...more
Passing of Bob Hutchinson
21/09/2011
Bob Hutchinson passed away yesterday - 21 Sept. At this time we do not have any information on funeral arrangements but as they are known they will be advised...more
Passing of Wayne Arthurs
5/09/2011
It is with great sadness we advise of the passing of Wayne Arthurs on Monday the 5th September. Wayne had suffered from cancer in recent years...more
Passing of Niall Campbell
25 August 2011
A great stalwart of Southland Softball was lost last week with the passing of Niall Campbell on August 25 at the age of 86...more
Passing of Lindsay Anderson
23 May 2011
The softball communities on both sides of the Tasman are mourning former Canterbury and South Island infielder Lindsay Anderson...more
Passing of Joyce Phillips
6 May 2011
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Joyce Phillips who was Umpire in Chief for Canterbury for many years...more
Passing of Paul (Pixie) Rogers
4 April 2011
It is with sadness that we inform everyone that Paul (Pixie) Rogers, the veteran of the first four tilts at the world series of softball, has died after a short illness...more
Passing of Ross Smith
30 Dec 2010
It is with great sadness we advise the passing of Black Sox legend and SNZ Hall of Fame member Ross Smith... more
Passing of Dorothy Tricker
14 Sep 2010
Passing of A.C. Williams
02 Sep 2010
Passing of Jamie Campbell
16 Aug 2010
NZ Softball lost one of its greats of yesteryear with the passing of outstanding third baseman and batter Jamie Campbell in Invercargill on Saturday... more
Passing of Vance Foster
28 Jun 2010
Passing of Lesley Byrne
29 May 2010
It is with great sadness I advise that Lesley Byrne passed away this morning (28th May). Lesley was known to many of us as the long serving Executive Officer of Papanui Softball Club until recent times ...more
Passing of Joyce Smith
21 Nov 2009
Passing of Joyce Smith New Zealand softball lost an icon of our sport early this morning Wednesday October 21) with the unexpected passing of life member Joyce Smith (83) in Invercargill's Southland Hospital after a brief illness (for more refer to link at the top of the page).