William Thomas Blumeris

William was born in Harare Zimbabwe on December 4, 1944 to Frank Blumeris and Catherine (Mostert) Blumeris and he was one of 9 children. He is survived by his wife Aileen of 56 years, his son David and David’s partner Jayne, his daughter Donna, his sister May Sharpe, and many other family members around the world. 

William grew up in Zimbabwe. He finished High School at Founders High in Bulawayo and completed his certificate of Electrical Engineering at the National Railways of Zimbabwe. After a long career in electrical engineering William transitioned into his first passion – sport. He was an international commentator for cricket and tennis. William’s contributions to the tennis world were highly impactful in Zimbabwe, not only as a player but as a role model. He was loved and respected for his skills as a mentor, a leader and a coach.

He was instrumental in coaching, developing and nurturing under-privileged athletes throughout Southern Africa, guiding and inspiring them to greater opportunities in the tennis world. 

William was Zimbabwe’s national junior tennis coach and he travelled on several international tours. He served as Zimbabwe’s Davis Cup Captain/Coach for a number of years before retiring and moving to the United States. 

William and Aileen moved to the Pennsylvania area in 2005. He quickly became a well-respected member of the tennis coaching community at Delaware Valley Tennis Academy, and then at Merion Cricket Club. 

William died peacefully at home surrounded by family on January 28, 2025. A private family viewing has been held. 

Family and friends are invited to William's Visitation 10:00-10:30 AM on Monday, February 3, 2025 at St. Katharine of Siena Church, 104 S. Aberdeen Ave, Wayne, PA 19087, followed by his Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM. Interment Private.

William's Funeral Mass will be livestreamed. Please click this link to be directed to the livestream: St. Katharine of Siena Youtube Page.

In lieu of flowers, please send your donations to Catholic Relief Services (support.crs.org), St. Jude at (stjude.org), or USTA Foundation (USTAfoundation.com) or to a charity of your choice.