It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert William (Bob) Corlett, age 94, at Percy’s Place. Bob was born on June 2, 1931, in Rochester, New York.
Bob was deeply devoted to the love of his life, Grace, with whom he shared 67 wonderful years of marriage.
He was predeceased by his father, Clyde Corlett, a World War II veteran and member of the U.S. Navy Construction Battalion (Seabees), who was wounded in the Solomon Islands and died later in the Naval hospital in Rochester New York. Bob was also predeceased by his mother, Esther Lesso Corlett, who was the first female mutual funds broker in the state of New York; his daughter, Corrie Esther; his sister, Les Riley (Bill); and his granddaughter, Meghan.
Bob attended Deveau Military School in Niagara, New York, and Perkiomen Preparatory School in Pennsylvania. An accomplished athlete, he excelled in sports and played semi-professional baseball for a short time with the Rochester Americans, the AAA farm team of the Baltimore Orioles. Bob told great stories of this period in his life, like meeting the baseball legend Satchel Paige after Bob was pitching during a try out session.
He later enlisted during the Korean War, serving two years in the US Army infantry.
Following his military service, Bob attended Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts, earning a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education (Kinesiology), and a Master of Business Administration.
While at Springfield College, Bob won a Division 1 National Championship in soccer, playing center-half.
It was at Springfield College, that he met the love of his life, Grace.
In 1973, Bob moved with his family to the Miramichi. He taught at James M. Hill High School from its opening in 1973 until his retirement in 1997. During this time, he developed the Leadership Program, coached men’s basketball and soccer, won two provincial soccer championships, and founded the Tommies Minor Basketball Association. Known as "Coach" to many, Bob believed every student had potential and focused on teaching both athletic and life skills. He believed that “the biggest role of a teacher is to show the kids how amazing they are.”
In retirement, Bob served on the Miramichi Recreation Council, advocating for improved opportunities for students and seniors alike. His passions included hunting, fishing, camping, harness racing, oil painting, and daily outings with Grace. He was a retired member of the United States Trotting Association, and a faithful member of St. Mary’s Anglican Church of the Miramichi.
Bob is survived by his wife, Grace; his children, Cathryn Blakney (Ed) of Moncton, Rob Corlett (Theresa) of Miramichi, Josh Corlett (Jill) of Connecticut, and John Corlett of Hardwicke; his grandchildren, Madison, Chandler, Katie, Lauren, Ashton, Skylar, Cole, Holly, and Dave; step-grandchildren, Marc and Josh; great-grandchildren, Rose, Maddie, CiCi, Beau, Charlotte, and Maisie; and step-great-grandchildren, Jaeden Paige, Jaedon Rain, Jordan and Kyaira, and Jessyca and Kyle.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. “Kris” Wierzchoslawki for his years of dedication and friendship to Bob and his family; Rev. Perry Cooper; Vondi House; Dr. Losier and his dedicated professional team at Percy’s Place; and Extra Mural and EMS for all their compassion and care.
Visitation will be held at Adams Funeral Home, 140 King St., Miramichi, New Brunswick, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, 207 Wellington St., Miramichi, New Brunswick, on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with The Venerable Perry Cooper officiating. Interment will be in St. Paul’s Anglican Cemetery later in the spring.
Donations may be made to Vondi House, Percy’s Place, or charity of the donor’s choice, and would be appreciated by the family.
Arrangements are entrusted to Adams Funeral Home Ltd., 140 King St., Miramichi, New Brunswick, telephone (506) 773-3492. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.adamsfh.ca