Christopher John Cordes

Christopher John Cordes 65, of Cazenovia, NY passed away unexpectedly on July 7, 2023. Chris was born in Syracuse, NY on July 14, 1957 to his late parents, Arthur V. Cordes, Jr. and Mary L. Cordes. He is survived by his son, Arthur T. Cordes, his former spouse, Heather Cordes, his five siblings: Arthur V. Cordes III (Amy), Robin Cordes, Bruce Cordes (Diana), Douglas Cordes, and Cynthia Cordes; his Aunt Marjorie Mortensen, and his many cousins, nieces, and nephews. 

Chris graduated from Cazenovia High School and attended Syracuse University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Physical Education in 1981. He pursued a master's in Sports Administration while working as a Graduate Assistant for the men’s basketball program. He went on to work for the Charlotte Hornets which subsequently launched his career as an independent sports management consultant. His work included roles with the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, National Golden Gloves Boxing, United States Judo, and the Major Indoor Lacrosse League, and then later in the athletic departments of American University and Quinnipiac University. He promoted NBA exhibition games around the country, and he was proud to bring former Syracuse University players back to Syracuse to play in front of local fans. 

Chris was passionate about helping others, especially volunteering with youth, and he loved teaching and coaching the game of basketball. He was able to combine his passions by running various basketball camps and clinics in his communities, as well as traveling overseas to Mexico, Algeria, and Panama to help develop their respective junior national basketball teams. 

Chris cherished his time with nature; his favorite sound on earth was ocean waves crashing onto the beach. Family and his Christian faith were paramount to him. He will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Calling hour will be from 12:00 to 1:00 pm on Monday, July 17, 2023 at the United Methodist Church, 111 Wesley St., Manlius, NY, with a Celebration of Life at 1pm. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery in Cazenovia, NY. 

Contributions in Chris’s memory can be made to Camp-of-the-Woods 106 Downey Ave., Speculator, NY 12164

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