Michael J. Courtney

Michael Courtney, age 84, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, February 20, 2023.  He was born in 1938 to John and Ann Courtney from Kaukauna.  After high school, Michael spent 4 years serving in the Navy on the USS Laffey.  He lived a life full of doing what he loved most, spending time with his family and working.  This included a full time job at Appleton Papers Combined Locks Paper Mill along with numerous side jobs he did throughout the years. The one he was most passionate - Mike’s Popcorn Stand in Appleton, WI.  After retirement he focused on growing the popcorn business with his daughters.  Mike created not only memories with his own family through popcorn but was able to help other families in the Valley create their own traditions and memories through the Popcorn Stand.  

He is survived by his loving wife, Judy (Wautlet); daughters Kathleen (Marvin) Sultze, Mary (Jason) Korth, Sarah (Patrick) McElhone, Ann (Jeffrey) Bell; 11 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; siblings, Patrick and Ellen. 

Visitation will be held from 9-11 AM, with a Funeral Mass celebrated at 11 AM on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2331 E. Lourdes Dr., Appleton, WI 54915 by Rev. Fr. Joe Dorner.

In lieu of flowers, a portion of memorials gifted to the family will be donated to one of Mike’s favorite charities.

The family would like to thank ThedaCare Hospice and Sue Vanable, his caregiver for the past year, for all the care and support you provided to Michael.  We will never forget the kindness you showed  all of us.

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