Doug Courtney

Douglas James Courtney, 71, of Oakes, North Dakota, passed away on February 27, 2026, with his son Drew and daughter-in law Lindsey by his side. Doug was born on October 5, 1954, in Ellendale, ND to Anna Mae and Vern Courtney.

Doug spent 38 years as a devoted businessman with PS Doors in Grand Forks, where he built many lifelong friendships. After retiring, he returned to his lifelong passion for farming at Courtney Farms in Guelph. Farming alongside his son Drew, his nephew Kyle, his brother Bob, and his close friend Bret meant the world to him and brought him tremendous happiness. In retirement, driving Drew's Gleaner combine up and down the rows of corn and soybeans each fall brought him hours of peace and contentment every fall.

Doug married Connie (Gebhardt) Courtney. His son Drew was the joy and pride of his life, and he treasured every moment they spent together, whether working on a project, snowmobiling, talking, or farming side by side. Doug loved being a grandfather and took great pride in Avery, Ella, Claire James, and Graham. He was excitedly looking forward to welcoming another grandchild this July.

Doug was always willing to lend a hand to friends and neighbors. Whether it was helping with a project, fixing something that needed attention, or spending time tinkering in his shop, he enjoyed staying busy. He found satisfaction in figuring things out, working with his hands, and helping others whenever he could. He was often the first call for many friends in times of needing a hand.

His early summers were filled with softball, golfing, and towing Drew and his friends behind the boat on Lake Ashtabula. Later in life, Doug and the Valley City camping crew spent many summer weeks traveling, camping, and making memories that lasted a lifetime.

Winters meant snow blowing, snowmobiling, and keeping busy in his shop, and in retirement he enjoyed traveling with Connie to visit family and friends in Florida, Arizona, and Oklahoma. No matter where he went, Doug was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved.

Doug is survived by his siblings Patty (Chick) LaRocque, Bob (Brenda) Courtney, and Pam (Perry) Dockter; his sisters-in law Geri Courtney and Bonnie (Mike) Lloyd; nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and great-nephews whom he was fortunate to spend time with.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vern and Anna Mae Courtney; his brother Kurt Courtney; and his in-laws, Wanda and Hank Gebhardt.

A time of sharing will be held on Tuesday, March 3 at 7:00 PM at Dahlstrom Funeral Home, in Oakes, North Dakota.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 4 at 1:30 PM at the Guelph Community Church, in Guelph, North Dakota. Lunch will follow at the Guelph School Gym-all are welcome. Doug's service will be live streamed on the Dahlstrom Funeral Home website www.dahlstromfuneralhome.com

Family and friends will leave for the cemetery at 4:30 PM, with burial following at 5:00 PM at the Oakes View Cemetery.

The family asks that memorials be directed to the Guelph Community Center, in honor of Doug's strong connection to the Guelph community and the Guelph Turkey BBQ.