[1 image]
Edwin Thomas Brownlee, QSM (1936–2022)
Honorary Member of The Willows & Umpire (1995–2021)
Another stalwart and long serving honorary member of The Willows has left us. Eddie stood as an umpire at The Willows right from the start of its founding some 27 years ago. Not only did he umpire regularly but up until five years ago he had the role, with Graham Evans, of making the umpiring appointments each match.
Eddie started umpiring in 1980 and soon rose to become a B Panel umpire and officiated in Hawke Cup Cricket together in a number of women’s representative games. He was well respected and later became a mentor to new umpires joining the ranks. From 1997 to 1999 he served as President of Canterbury Umpires and Scorers Association, and in 2000 was elected as a Life Member. He also took great satisfaction from following his daughter Delwyn play for Canterbury, Central Districts and one Test for New Zealand.
As well, Eddie was actively involved as a coach at the Western Football Club and in 1989 was awarded a QSM for his services to football and the community. In his working life he was a building construction tutor at the Christchurch Polytechnic retiring in 2016 at the age of 80.
Eddie was always a great character, and umpired with good humour. I remember a game in his later years where I happened to be his colleague. A batsman smashed the ball into his face (actually it hit his teeth). Everyone was extremely worried for his well being, but he only went down on one knee, and said “Don’t worry boys these dentures are bloody tough.” He wiped the blood away and carried on like an absolute trooper.
He will be missed. RIP Eddie.