Obituary

Rosemary Courtney (nee Von Bank), 98, residing in Rancho Mission Viejo, California ascended to be with her heavenly father on December 20, 2024. Rosemary was born on June, 15, 1926 to Dr. William J. Von Bank and Frances (nee Michael) Von Bank in New Ulm, MN. Rosemary was the oldest daughter with her sister, Elizabeth Ann, being 4 years younger. Rosemary was given the nickname of Roser by a dear childhood friend. Rosemary had fond memories of her childhood in Minnesota, where the family often enjoyed picnics at the lake and visits to the Michael family farm in Jordan, MN accompanied with extended family and friends.

Rosemary graduated from New Ulm High School in 1944. Following graduation, Rosemary persuaded her parents to embark on an east coast/Canadian trip where Rosemary developed a yearning for travel.

Rosemary was a member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority at the University of Minnesota where she graduated in 1948 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy. Upon graduation Rosemary embarked on a 3 month bicycling/hosteling trip to Europe with several of her sorority sisters, who became lifelong friends.

On December 18, 1954 Rosemary married the love of her life, William George Courtney (formerly George William Cincoski), at the Carmel Mission Basilica in Carmel, California. The couple resided for a short time in San Francisco, California before moving to southern California. The couple were blessed with 6 children residing in La Mirada, California and later in Walnut, California. Motherhood was a busy time raising 6 children where Rosemary instilled a strong work ethic in all of her children, whether it was in scholastics, sports or employment. Faith and family were the foundation of Rosemary’s life. Rosemary also worked part time in Pharmacy while juggling the many household duties. Rosemary’s holiday gatherings and gourmet meals were always a memorable time for all.

In 1990 the couple retired to Dana Point, California where they enjoyed walks to the ocean, traveling, fun-filled time with their grandchildren and making new friends in the seaside community. Rosemary immersed herself in several of her hobbies- floral arranging, art history and volunteer work. William and Rosemary were married for 54 years when William preceded Rosemary in death on September 1, 2009. In Rosemary’s later years she enjoyed special time with family and friends, walks to the ocean, field trips to museums and botanical gardens.

Rosemary’s family was her greatest pride, and her memory will live on in their hearts forever.

Preceded in death by her brother, William Michael Von Bank (1924-1924), her parents, her sister Elizabeth (Kenneth) Herzog, grandchildren- Matthew T. Courtney, Dustin J. Courtney and Melissa R. Courtney-Chamberlin.

Rosemary is survived by her 6 children: Craig W. Courtney, Brian T. (Debra) Courtney, Rosanne (James) Saycich, Bret E. Courtney, Claire (Rudolf) Mayer and Monica M. Courtney, 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Interment will be private at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, California.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Providence Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo, California.