Today with full but broken hearts the family of Corby Sheffield announce our incredible loss with his passing.

Corby was born February 13, 1950, adopted and raised by Lyle and Cleo Sheffield in Muncie. He attended both Burris and Ball State University. Corby excelled in athletics, setting records in both Basketball and Track that held for many years, and the still unbroken record of earning the most high school letters in sports. He went on to play a little in college and industrial league and refereeing grade school through college basketball games, receiving an invitation to officiate in the NBA - until the knees said no more (the great newspaper reporter, Bob Barnet once described Corby as being held together by scotch tape and bubble gum). In his adult years he was an avid golfer, playing on courses throughout the country.

But sports did not define him.

Corby worked in the construction field, first learning and working with his father’s firm, then for others and then his own. He then moved into the insurance business as an independent catastrophe claims adjuster, supervisor, and mediator until his retirement. Corby was a longtime member of the YMCA’s service organization Y’s Men’s Club, serving as president of the local club and International Regional Director.

But his career did not define him.

He was an amazing person who never met a stranger, who had an excitement for life, and the kindest spirit and humble soul. He created bonds wherever he went. He was the heart of his family, which included his wife Leigh, his beloved children, son Kelly (Cathy), son Shaun (Maricruz), daughter Cami (Brandon), and his seven precious grandchildren. He had this magical ability to make each child and grandchild feel uniquely special and unconditionally loved. Our hearts are heavy with loss but full of gratitude as his legacy of love will continue to shape our family for years to come.

He is also survived by his brother Garry, sister Peggy, several wonderful cousins and a multitude of great friends whom he cherished.

This is what defined him.

As we spent this week together as a family to love, laugh, cry, pray and reminisce, and he was also able to enjoy the connections and reflections with friends, we consider it the funeral he was able to participate in. There will be no other formal ceremony; however if you would like to honor him in your own special way, tip a glass and offer a cheer (a pisco sour would be nice), listen to some soft classical jazz (with piano), Righteous Brothers, Three Dog Night or Janis Joplin, or just look up at the sky and give a wink and think of him.