Jeffery Thomas Courtney

On Tuesday, November 28th, our beloved Jeff passed away peacefully with his family by his side. Since May, searing headaches had confined Jeff to silent, darkened hospital beds for weeks at a time. Jeff endured his progressive neurological condition with his characteristic dignity and a steadfast determination to regain his health and return to the family life he cherished. His beloved wife Paula was his unrelenting champion, ensuring that he received the best possible medical care and providing loving support.

Jeffery Thomas Courtney was born in Toronto on April 30, 1958. In 1962, the family moved to North Bay. Soon after arriving, Jeff was observed heading outside carrying a box of cookies. Asked where he was going he replied, "to make friends”. Throughout his life, Jeff’s kind and caring nature, combined with his humour, wit and engaging smile ensured he had no further need of cookies.

Jeff attended North Bay’s Widdifield Secondary School where he established strong, lifelong friendships. His love of the outdoors inspired Jeff to study Microbiology at the University of Guelph. This set the stage for the passion he demonstrated throughout a successful career in the field of science-based innovation. His successful career included senior roles in corporate management in Montreal and Toronto with Johnson & Johnson, PharmaScience, VG Partners and culminated with his leadership role at FACIT (Fight Against Cancer Innovation Trust).

Notwithstanding his love of science, Jeff was a true romantic. He left a successful career in Montreal to follow his heart and move to Toronto to be with Paula. Their personal and professional lives flourished. Together, they travelled the world, laughed and loved, living every moment to the fullest. Their deep mutual love and support never wavered or diminished.

Jeff was a proud and loving father to his daughter Julia, and delighted in his role parenting her as she grew from a toddler to an intelligent, caring and beautiful young woman.

During their happy years together, Jeff and Paula reveled in their Georgian Bay cottage where Jeff rekindled his love of nature and big water. In late September, Jeff and Paula made what would be his last trip to the cottage - a place they had dreamed of enjoying for decades. Although he was no longer able to walk without assistance, Jeff took the helm of their boat and made a final tour of the shores he loved.

Jeff is survived by his wife Paula, daughter Julia, parents Stanley and June Courtney, siblings Nancy Granger (Dan), Stephen Courtney and nephews Cole and Taylor Granger and innumerable friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Sunday, January 21st, 1-4 pm at the Aria Ballroom, Four Seasons Hotel, Toronto. www.trullfuneralsyonge.com.