Charles Courtney

CHAUNCEY - Charles Harvey Courtney, 84, passed from this earth on Nov. 11, 2009. Born March 3, 1925, to the Rev. Gilbert and Helen Courtney, he grew up in a large extended family in the Hocking Valley of Ohio. He was preceded in death by sisters, the Rev. Betty Courtney and a host of other angels. Beloved by his wife Zenovia of 61 years, Harve is survived by eight children, Cathy, Bill, Joe, Anna, John, Zenee, Bob, Paul and their spouses; 16 grandchildren; a sister, Isabel Hall; and a brother Gilbert Courtney, Jr. After serving in the Navy Seabees during WWII in Hawaii and the Philippines, Harve Completed his bachelorchr(39)s degree at Ohio University and a masterchr(39)s degree at University of Michigan. A science teacher at Chauncey-Dover High School and Jane Adamchr(39)s Jr. High, Mr. Courtney initiated Royal Oak science fairs and innovative curriculum. Friends and family remember Harvey for nudging us to be curious, to learn, share and teach others. He supported us to stand up for what is just and righteous. Active in the Royal Oak Federation of Teachers, he organized a farmers market, a volunteer fire department, police department and encouraged us to build something and dream something. Some recall him as the citizen activist and letter to the editor writer, the storyteller, the author of poetry books, "Thoughts& and "After Thoughts&. Some recall his business projects and inventions, while others admired his gardening, fishing, hunting and camping with his boys. Grandchildren could count on Grandpachr(39)s devotion to their interests, performances, sports events and being Mr. fix-It Science Guy. Many know him as that guy with the fish hat who made you laugh. Harveychr(39)s writings, songs and photographs inspired us to "Capture the Moment.& His long, energetic and fulfilling life exemplified a moral standard to welcome everyone as family, take pride in heritage, give service and sustain faith in the "Universal Spirit.& Memorials may be sent via email to micourtneys@aol.com. A graveside service will be held Sunday, Nov. 15 at 2 PM at West Union Street Cemetery, Athens, followed by a memorial service at 4 PM at Chauncey Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, contributiona may be sent to Chauncey Christian Church, 4 High St., Chauncey, Ohio 45719; the Alzheimer Association, Greater Michigan Chapter on the website www.alz.org.gmc or University of Michigan via the web at www.giving.UMich.edu.