Christopher D. Cortese

About

Manhattan College University of Oregon

Christopher Cortese Obituary

Christopher D. Cortese, 70, formerly of Amsterdam, NY passed away unexpectedly on March 17, 2021 due to a pulmonary embolism. He was currently living in Raleigh, North Carolina with his wife Juliet Deng. Chris was born in Amsterdam on April 22,1950, the third of 7 children born to Dr. Philip and Margaret Cortese. He grew up in a loving family who shared different interests but similar expectations "to always do what is right". Chris was a scholar and a lover of literature, art, life long learning and traveling. Reading the expressive stories of his many adventures was a gift. Chris made it a priority to stay connected to people who helped make his life special. Former colleagues, professors, friends, family - no one was left behind by Chris. His expert knowledge of all things financial was one of the ways that he used his love of education to help better lives. After a long and loving relationship, Chris and Juliet married in June 2019 with Juliet's 3 adult children Kevin, Michael and Julie actively participating in the ceremony. Chris loved his family including his nieces and nephews. Survivors include his siblings, Maria Cortese of Sierra Madre, California; Tom Cortese (Linda) of Niskayuna, NY; Family Court Judge Phil Cortese (Jerri) of Amsterdam, NY; Lisa Cassell of Merrimack, New Hampshire; and Julie Cortese of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He was predeceased by both his parents and his youngest sister Margaret Ellen who also lived in Chapel Hill, North Carolina with her husband Mark. Christopher graduated from Bishop Scully High School in Amsterdam in 1967 and attended Manhattan College for a Bachelors degree; he attended the University of Oregon for his Masters in Business Administration (MBA). Chris was proud of his distinguished honor of completing the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exam in 3 years, a rare feat. Chris lived most of his adult life in Seattle, Washington. He and Juliet moved to Raleigh, NC after Chris retired. A remembrance of Chris' life and accomplishments will be held at a later date as determined by family preference and COVID guidelines.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Gazette Co. from Mar. 31 to Apr. 3, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Cortese

6 Entries

Michael

September 18, 2021

It is 6 months since you passed Chris. I miss you so. And tonight I feel it especially. I know you are watching after all of us, probably in a heavenly armchair. Still, your absence is sorely missed by so many. I am sending my love to you.

Joanne Anton

September 18, 2021

Chris was a sweet man and dear friend in Seattle. I have many fond memories of "the gang" going out dancing or just hanging out together. Several of us traveled to Oregon to see Chris graduate with his Masters. He was so proud and we were proud of him. I will always remember Chris as a dear friend and man of honor.

Mary Giordano

September 17, 2021

Dear Cortese family, I have just now heard of Chris's passing and am so sad to hear this news. I have so many fond memories from Seattle starting in the late 70s!!! I am so glad that he found his true love and I am so sorry you all have lost him. Chris was always present in the events of our youthful revelry and he was a loyal friend to me and members of our dance company - Co-motion Dance. Maria has been to my house and I came to Albany in '84. We went to his graduation in Eugene. He was a noble gentleman and a scholar. I wish you all peace during this difficult time.
With love, Mary

Janet Thompson

July 8, 2021

My sincere condolences Juliet. Please contact me when you feel up to it.

Melinda Cook

May 12, 2021

I was his Dental Hygienist for as long as he lived in Raleigh. I saw him several times a year. I thoroughly enjoyed the stimulating conversations we had. When I saw his name on my schedule in the morning, I started looking forward to our visit. I loved hearing about his wedding. He loved Juliet so much. I will miss him greatly. He was one of my most fascinating dental patients and I have been in dentistry 46 years. Blessings to all of his family as they grieve this sudden loss.

Qing

April 1, 2021

In my memory, Chris is an honest, friendly and wise brother. I did not get to see Chris many times, but every time when I got a chance to chat with him, it was a very pleasant time. Chris is knowledgeable, humorous, wise and respectful. Everyone in my family loves him. Chris, we miss you, and we hope you rest with peace and happiness.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results