The Oregon Legislature will host a special celebration of life for the late Peter Courtney, the longest-serving legislator and Senate president in Oregon’s history. The event is scheduled for January 29, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the Oregon State Capitol.
Peter Courtney passed away in July 2024 at the age of 81. He served Oregon with dedication for 38 years, including 24 years in the Senate, where he made a significant impact on state governance. His leadership, especially as the Senate president for 20 years, helped shape Oregon’s political landscape, making him a beloved figure in the state’s history.
This event, which will run for 90 minutes, is open to the public and will take place in the Senate chamber. The ceremony will also be simulcast in the House of Representatives, allowing more people to participate. Seating in the Senate chamber will be reserved, while members of the House will have open seating at their desks. There will also be additional seating available in the House gallery. Between both chambers, approximately 600 seats will be available for attendees.
For those unable to secure seating in the chambers, overflow seating will be provided in hearing rooms at the Capitol. The Capitol building is undergoing construction, which means some areas are closed off to the public. Visitors should enter through the State Street side of the Capitol building to reach the event.
Courtney’s extraordinary career in the Oregon Legislature spanned nearly four decades. He began his public service in the House of Representatives before moving to the Senate, where he spent the majority of his career. His 24 years in the Senate included a record-breaking 20 years as Senate president. Courtney’s ability to work across party lines and his calm, steady leadership earned him respect from both sides of the aisle.
After retiring in 2022, Courtney’s health took a turn in January 2024 when he underwent life-saving heart valve surgery. He was in the process of recovering and regaining strength when he passed away on July 16, 2024, due to complications from cancer. His death marked a profound loss for Oregon, as he had been a steadfast and trusted leader for so many years.
The celebration of life event on January 29 will include a series of tributes to Courtney’s remarkable life and legacy. The event will feature speeches from current and former political leaders, as well as remarks from those who worked with him closely during his time in office. In addition, several of Courtney’s former staff members will share their experiences and reflect on his leadership and the lasting impact he made on the state.
To honor Courtney’s love for the arts and music, the celebration will include a performance by the Western Oregon University Chamber Singers. Music was an important part of his life, and the performance will reflect his passion for the cultural enrichment of Oregon. A video message from a family member who could not attend the event in person will also be shown as part of the celebration, adding a personal touch to the ceremony.
The event will take place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Afterward, attendees are invited to join a reception from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Salem YMCA. The reception will provide an opportunity for friends, family, colleagues, and the public to come together and share memories of Peter Courtney. This gathering will be a time to reflect on his leadership and contributions to Oregon, and to celebrate the enduring influence he had on the state’s political environment.
Courtney’s legacy goes beyond his years in office. He was a strong advocate for education, healthcare, and social justice in Oregon. His leadership was instrumental in the passing of key legislation that benefited the state’s most vulnerable populations. Whether working on issues related to environmental protection or advocating for public health, Peter Courtney always put the people of Oregon first.
As the longest-serving Senate president in Oregon’s history, Courtney was known for his ability to remain calm and composed, even in the most challenging situations. His leadership style, which emphasized consensus-building and collaboration, allowed him to foster relationships across party lines. He was beloved by colleagues and respected by opponents, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
The celebration of life will be a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to serving Oregon. It offers the public a chance to honor Peter Courtney’s legacy and to reflect on the profound impact he had on the state and its people. This event will serve as a reminder of his unwavering commitment to public service and his enduring influence on the state’s political landscape.
For those interested in attending, the public is encouraged to arrive early to ensure a seat in the chambers or overflow areas. The Oregon State Capitol is a place of great historical significance, and this celebration will be an important moment for the people of Oregon to come together and honor one of the state’s most beloved political leaders.
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