Carolina Lewis - the 23-year-old niece of former New Zealand tennis pro and Wimbledon finalist Chris Lewis - died unexpectedly last week during a trip to Washington DC.
Chris described Carolina's death as "one of life's unthinkable and cruellest moments".
"Carolina, may your beautiful soul Rest In Peace forever, and may your wonderful and loving family find some peace on this earth now that you have left us," Chris said.
"Carolina, we all love you. Thank you for the special times we've shared, the wonderful and precious memories you've given us, and for the love we all have in our hearts for you - a love that will hold true and strong for the rest of our lives. You will always be with us," he said.
Carolina, whose father David is also an ex-pro tennis player, moved to United States' Hilton Head with her family in her teens. David, Carolina's mother Rosaria and younger sister Jade were organising a dual memorial in both the US and Auckland.
"If you could offer any support in this most difficult of times - whether it be a kind message to Rosaria, David and Jade, a prayer, or the smallest of donations - it would be greatly appreciated," Chris said.
Chris said that before moving to the US Carolina and Jade "spent an idyllic childhood in New Zealand growing up with my own children in Auckland."
"They had fun together, shared birthdays together, they even started playing tennis together."
The Lewis family are tennis royalty in New Zealand - Chris was a Wimbledon finalist in 1983, losing to John McEnroe.
David Lewis was also an accomplished player and was a former Fed Cup captain. His daughter Jade also pursued a professional career. Carolina had been playing in the US college championship for Kansas State.
Jade, Carolina's sister, has set up a Go Fund me page.
