Karl Edward Coombes

1947 - 2017

BORN

1947

DIED

2017

About

Oklahoma City University

Karl Coombes Obituary

Karl Edward Coombes

Naples, FL

I lost my husband and best friend on October 27, 2017 after a valiant battle with ALS.

Karl Edward Coombes, 69, of Naples, FL died on October 27, 2017 at his home, with his wife at his side.

He was born December 17, 1947 in Sydney, Australia, the only child of the late Herbert Edward and Mercia Evelyn (Hope) Coombes.

He is survived by his wife, Lea Pelfrey-Coombes; and a daughter from a previous marriage, Miriam and her husband, Adam Langley; and child, Catherine.

From a young age, Karl traveled the world and played Junior and Professional tennis, winning the Australian Open Junior Championship in 1966. He was a proud graduate of Oklahoma City University where he was a history major and played Number 1 one in the Men's Tennis program for four years. He was a proud member of the ATP, and coached several ATP Players including former resident and dear friend, Johan Kriek. Karl coached the Charlotte Heat (1987-88) and San Antonio Rackets (1989) of World Team Tennis Professional League to team Victories. In 1995 he was inducted to the Oklahoma City University Sport Hall of Fame.

In October 2016 Karl retired after 21 years as Tennis Director at Kensington Golf and Country Club. In July of this year, Kensington dedicated Court #7 in honor of his service. The 'Karl Coombes Court' is known as the site of the former Nuveen Masters Tournament.

Karl loved sports, especially the game of Tennis, American Football and Rugby Union.

He was a history buff and was known for his curiosity and thoughtful wisdom on various subjects. Karl's passion for living life was only matched by his infectious sense of humor. He had a huge heart that he shared with everyone he met and was a special friend to all animals. Karl's legacy will live on through the smiles of all he touched and many 'cheers' said at dinner tables and pubs around the world.

A private celebration of his life ceremony will be held in December.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Karl's name to Suntrust Bank.

We all need to says Cheers in Karl's honour.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Naples Daily News on Dec. 3, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Karl Coombes

6 Entries

John Strickland

March 6, 2023

Still thinking of Karl after all this time. Now that Dave Bar bin and Charlie McLamb are gone I am still thinking of those years at Ceader Forest.

John B

January 9, 2021

I met Karl in Charlotte at Cedar Forest in around 1977 when I was 12 years old. I think of him often and thank him always for fostering my lifelong love of Tennis! So sad to see this note of his passing. I will carry his spirit for as long as I live.

Jan J

June 10, 2018

I met Karl 40 years ago this year . He was the teaching pro at Cedar Forest Racquet Club in Charlotte NC and was hosting a tournament . I loved to watch him play there and at Olde Providence country Club also in Charlotte NC His athleticism in his tennis game was phenomenal to watch.
We have maintained a friendship
For these 40 years.
I was devastated as everyone else who knows and loves him
When he informed me of his diagnosis .
I miss his wit, charm, his love of the game.
He is missed by so many .
My thoughts and prayers go out to his Family and Friends
As the one year anniversary is approaching .
Jan J.
Charlotte NC

Lambeth Marshall

January 10, 2018

To Karl's family. In Charlotte NC, in 1973, 74, he was my coach and one of my best friends. I was divorced, no money, an avid tennis player. He gave my free lessons and had me work out with his High School tennis team at Olde Providence even though I was in my early thirties. I will never forget him placing me on center court for the experience of hitting over 45 overheads with a crowd cheering. What a gift to have known this man who challenged me to become better at the game I loved and life... Thank you Karl and my best to your family. I will never forget you.

Patti Lutz

December 25, 2017

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Karl and the struggle he faced with ALS. I worked with Karl when he was coach for the Charlotte HEAT. Karl had a way to make everyone feel special and bring lots of laughter and smiles to us all. I feel blessed to have known him and call him my friend. My heart goes out to you Lea and his daughter Miriam and family.

Todd Overgard

December 21, 2017

I went to OCU and played on the tennis team with Karl for 2 of my 4 years. We were quite good friends and hitting partners. I tried to get in touch with him several times over the years, but was never able to find him after 1975. I thought about trying to contact him last night and then, this morning, I see that he has passed. Even though I haven't seen him in over 40 years, I am sad. I am sorry for his wife and daughter, whom I have never met. Karl had that effect on people. He was extraordinary, both in competitiveness and kindness. He was a true gentleman. Rest in peace, Karl.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results