Susan L. Courtnage
Dr. Susan Louise Courtnage, age 71, of Eaton Rapids passed away unexpectedly on May 6, 2021 after a brief illness. Born November 26, 1949 in Binghamton, NY to Dr. William H. and Marjorie L. (Hunter) Courtnage . Sue attended Carmi High School in Carmi, IL., After high school she attended the University of Illinois where she received her undergraduate, and then fulfilled her medical doctorate degree from the University of Illinois Champaign and Chicago. She became board certified in Internal Medicine in 1977. Dr. Courtnage opened her medical practice in Eaton Rapids, providing compassionate care for her patients and advocacy services for those with disabilities. She served Eaton Rapids and the surrounding community for her entire professional career until her retirement in 2019.
At a young age, Susan had a curious mind and developed a love for learning. During her school years she channeled this into music playing piano and the trumpet and art (painting). She loved the out of doors and achieved the First-Class Girl Scout award at a young age. She continued her scouting involvement with her sons in the Boy Scouts of America organization as a leader and a supportive volunteer.
Susan was an enthusiastic traveler, exploring all aspects of the food and culture of each destination whether in the U.S. or internationally. She was a tourist in her own state educating herself on Michigan native flowers and the beautiful state parks. Every roadside attraction or museum captured her interest and was a learning opportunity for her. Susan was also an avid card player, always armed with a deck of cards and prepared for a friendly, but competitive game.
She was interested in investing and became a founding member of the Golden Girls LLC Investment Club which she was the longest standing member and currently was serving as President and the Education Chairperson. Beyond retirement Susan continued learning by taking educational courses in the medical field, law, architecture, art, botany and many other areas. She was an active member of the Eaton Rapids Art Guild. Her many friends knew her as caring, independent, and always having a smile.
Susan was preceded in death by her parents and infant son Scott. Left to grieve her passing are her two sons, Brian Stipanuk of Holt, MI and Christopher (Jesica) Stipanuk of Indianapolis, IN; grandchildren, Ethan, Ezra and Elias McNamara. Sisters, Margaret (Jeff) Burrell of Kansas City, MO; Christine Courtnage of Austin, TX; Gale Sipe of Irving, TX and Patricia (Todd) Sampsel of Wimberely, TX; nieces, nephews and many friends.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Rapids Women’s Shelter, ASPCA or Heifer International.
For online condolences please go to www.skinnerfuneralhome.com.