Gov. Tina Kotek has ordered flags at public institutions in Oregon to be flown at half-staff until Thursday in honor of the late Peter Courtney, the state’s longest-serving legislator who passed away at the age of 81 due to complications related to cancer. The governor’s order was followed by a gathering at the Oregon State Hospital Cremains Memorial, where Courtney’s leadership was recognized, and the facility was officially renamed as the Peter Courtney Salem Campus of the Oregon State Hospital by Gov. Kate Brown.
Courtney, a champion for mental health services, seismic safety issues, and animal rights during his 38 years as a legislator, was remembered for his dedicated service to the state. Tributes poured in following his death, highlighting his impact on the Salem community and the state of Oregon. Before his time in the Legislature, Courtney served on the Salem City Council and later became Senate president in 2003, a position he held until his retirement after the 2022 legislative session.
Gov. Kotek praised Courtney’s dedication to Oregon and his compassionate leadership, stating that his legacy will endure through his advocacy for Oregonians and the memories of those who knew him. Dianne Lugo, who covers the Oregon Legislature and equity issues, can be reached at dlugo@statesmanjournal.com or on Twitter @DianneLugo.
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