Kristian (Kris) Courtney passed away August 15, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family and
some of his closest friends.
Kris was a warm, loving, generous person who knew the importance of family and friends and
built a life prioritizing the relationships he held so dear. Born and raised in Andover, Kris was so
proud of the town he grew up in. Affectionately calling themselves the “DTG” (downtown gang).
Kris and his childhood friends remained close and in high school, Kris added to his core group
of friends which truly became a second family. Graduating from Andover High School in 1998,
Kris moved to Burlington, Vermont to attend UVM. During this time, he met his “Vermont friends” who became another integral part of Kris’ life. Kris had a way of making people feel appreciated and valued. He was loyal and thoughtful and while so many relationships fade over time, with Kris, if you were lucky enough to be his friend, you were his friend for life. From Harvest parties to dinners out, traditional St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to 80s dance parties on Thursday nights.
Kris’ door was always open and he always wanted his friends close by. In many ways, Kris was
seen as the glue of the group, keeping these relationships thriving over decades. Kris earned a degree in Labor Studies from UMass Boston. He spent his career at The Foundation for Fair Contracting of Massachusetts, where he was devoted to advocating for protecting workers’ rights, fair wages, and fair competition in the public construction arena. He was deeply committed to making the world better for working people and their families.
In 2017, Kris’ life changed forever when he met Colleen Carney. Set up by mutual friends, Kris fell hard for Colleen’s infectious energy, adventurous spirit, compassion for others, and love of life. They married in 2018 in Ireland and went on to have two children, Lillian Virginia and Hugh Michael. Kris was most proud of the family they created. He was known for sending daily photos of his children's latest adventures; his wife and kids were truly the joy of his life.
Aside from the relationships he held so dear, Kris was passionate about his hobbies. Kris was an avid music enthusiast, with a remarkable knowledge for music. He seemed to know more about every band than most people knew about any band. He loved discovering music, talking about it, and, most of all, experiencing it live. He traveled far and wide to see his favorite bands, creating countless memories along the way. Kris found joy and freedom in the outdoors as well.
Skiing was one of Kris’ great passions, and he loved skiing with Colleen, traveling out west with friends and family, always on the hunt for the best conditions. Kris grew up skiing with his dad and brother, and every friend he could get to join him.
Kris had a quick smile, a loud laugh, and a gift for story telling. He had a way of making people feel welcome and was committed to maintaining the relationships he built over the years. He made those around him feel special and created moments that turned into cherished memories that live on in those who loved him.
Kris leaves behind his wife Colleen Courtney and their two beautiful children, Lillian Virginia and Hugh Michael Courtney (Dedham). He was the cherished son of Karen and Mark Courtney (Andover) and the beloved older brother of Patrick Courtney and his wife Dana (Andover) and their daughters Camille and Maggie. He leaves behind nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who adored him.
Calling hours and services will be held on Thursday, August 20, from 3 pm - 5 pm followed by a brief service at 5 pm at Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 390 North Main St, Andover. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Kris’ memory to Waterville Valley’s Adaptive Sports Program at https://www.waterville.com/wv-adaptive.