Mary M. Courtney

Mary Courtney, age 71, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday morning, November 6, 2014. She succumbed to ALS, and was surrounded by those she loved and by those who loved her. Mary was born in that same home on March 31, 1943, daughter of the late John and Ann (Ellenbecker) Courtney. She was a 1962 graduate of Kaukauna High School, and also received her training to be a Licensed Practical Nurse at Fox Valley Technical Institute. Her clinical training was received at Theda Clark Medical Center. Most of her years as an LPN were spent at the Kaukauna Community Hospital, and later at St. Paul Manor in Kaukauna. Even in her retirement, she continued to care for and minister to countless friends and neighbors. She was so generous with her time and her love – that will forever be her legacy. Mary was an active member of Holy Cross Catholic Church, its Queen of Peace Choir, Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, and the Extension Chords. She truly loved her music, as well as reading, making rosaries which were sent to missions around the world, and volunteered as a Friend of the Grignon Mansion.

Mary is survived by her loving brothers and sister: Michael (Judy) Courtney of Appleton; Patrick (Vicki) Courtney of Green Bay; and Ellen Courtney of Kaukauna; her six dear nieces: Kathleen (Marv) Sultze, Mary (fiancé Jason Korth) Courtney, Sarah (Patrick) McElhone, Ann (Jeff) Bell, Colleen (Mike) Sazama, and Megan (Nick) Vitrano; as well as fifteen great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, and by a sister Ann Courtney.

The funeral liturgy for Mary will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 11, 2014 at HOLY CROSS CATHOLIC CHURCH, 309 Desnoyer Street in Kaukauna. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. Family members and friends are invited to gather directly at the church on Tuesday morning from 9:00 AM until the time of the service. Memorial contributions may be directed to Loaves and Fishes or to Holy Cross Parish.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers who helped to make Mary's journey as comfortable as possible. They include her special cousins, Mary and Nina Ellenbecker; her good friend Jill Skaletski; the many neighbors from Riverside Drive and Rose Hill Road; Deacon Mark and Mary Ebben; St. Paul Hospice Services, especially Melissa, Cris, Lauren, Ellen, Julie, Karen, and Diane; Brightstar Care, especially Kelly and Amy; the countless friends and loved ones who sent cards, letters, notes, prayers, and came to visit, and to Schenck, SC, who graciously gave Ellen all the time she needed to be with Mary. We consider each of you to be a special angel in our lives, and will never forget the kindness and love you have shown.

Mary's caregivers always asked her, “Mary, are you comfortable?” She would always respond with, “Yes, for now.” Mary, you know now that there is no greater comfort than resting safely in the arms of Jesus. As hard as it is on all of us, we know that you are finally comfortable