Courtney L. McGill

"Do not weep for me, remember me with grace,

In the beauty of my youth, with sunshine on my face.

Think of the joy we shared, the laughter we knew,

And above all, cherish the love that forever grew."

Courtney Lee McGill, age 27, of Racine, MN, left us on Friday, August 11, 2023. She departed peacefully, surrounded by her cherished loved ones, following a valiant and enduring struggle against cholangiocarcinoma.

Cancer's grasp is a heavy burden to bear, unique in its impact on every soul it touches. For me, it took much from my days, but in return, it unveiled the depths of my strength. I discovered the ability to embrace challenges not easily conquered. Most importantly, cancer could not extinguish my zest for life and enjoyment. It taught me that tomorrows are uncertain, yet in my darkest moments, the most remarkable people emerged as beacons of light.

I was born on May 13, 1996, to the embrace of Neil and Karman (Renken) McGill, my journey began. Racine, Minnesota, was my nurturing ground, where I bloomed. My educational path led me through Stewartville High School and eventually to the doors of Nova Academy, with dreams of becoming an esthetician. Though chemo-induced fog dimmed my memory, preventing me from passing certain tests, I found my place as an administrative desk assistant and receptionist. My final professional chapter unfolded at Penz Automotive, where Todd and Zach played pivotal roles in making my truck dreams a reality.

I loved going to the beach and basking in the sun's warmth.  The adventures of ice fishing and golfing with my Dad were treasured moments.  If it was 8 pm and you heard laughter, it was me and my Mom enjoying an episode of The Golden Girls together, probably with a bowl of popcorn.  Shopping escapades and dining out with friends made for “PRICELESS” memories well spent.  Gatherings with my family, often featuring cookouts and bonfires, made for countless stories and memories to last a lifetime.

March 29, 2021, marked the day my heart expanded further as a 4lb, multi-colored Shih-Tzu Bichon Teddy Bear puppy named Berkley entered my life. Berkley brought unending love, infectious laughter, and a playful habit of retrieving clean socks from the laundry basket.

On this journey you see how teamwork is key so thank you, thank you, to my amazing Chemo team and hospital staff.  And a special thank you to my Mom’s work group for their extra support. 

A cherished blessing in my final days was the privilege of becoming a godmother to Harper Frank.

I am survived by my parents Neil and Karman, my puppy Berkley, my Grandparents: Ellen McGill, Bonnie Renken, Ron & Kathy Renken, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. I am preceded in death by my Grandpa, John “Jack” McGill, and my uncle, Dale Moen. 

A celebration of my life will be held on Friday, August 18, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Spring Valley, MN. Reverend Zachary Loving will preside over the service.  Visitations will take place from 3:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 17th, at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, with continuation from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday. A private family burial will follow at Millet Cemetery in rural Spring Valley.  Food will be served immediately after the service at 2 Brothers Bar and Grill in Stewartville, MN.

Family is using Ed's Floral in LeRoy, MN for floral arrangements. (105 W Main St, Le Roy, MN 55951, 507-324-5917)

Online condolences may be left at Hindtfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.