Monika Courtney passed away on June 28, 2026, at the age of 73, and leaves this valley a better place for all her years of friendship and dedication to her work. She is survived by her husband Robert, her sister Uschi, her nephew Tino, and her two cats, Bonnie and Clyde.
Monika was born in the town of Heidenheim in the Swabian Alps of Germany to Erika and Heiner Zeiner. She spent her early life traipsing around with her beloved father, who was an outdoor enthusiast, a skier, and earned his living as a graphic artist. Monika was a gymnast and played the violin. She trained as a PE teacher, German language teacher, and high-level ski instructor in Germany before taking a job in 1984 as a ski instructor at Alpental Ski Resort in Washington state. There she met her future husband Robert, who was a Pro Ski Patroller and avalanche technician, and she decided to stay. They were the perfect pair!
Monika and Robert got married in the Methow Valley in 1985, where they built their own unique house up the Chewuch River. Monika worked in many jobs throughout her years in the valley. She tutored high school German, worked for Bart Bradshaw and then the Devin family at Central Reservations and the Winthrop Liquor Store for 10 years. After that she worked at the Heli Barn, and finally landed in 1999 working for Janice and Pete Dickinson. Monika helped Janice with her children’s portrait business. Then the pair of them went to work with Pete in his Physical Therapy and Fitness clinic, which they all built into a thriving operation and Monika was the glue that held it together.
Monika was an exceptional athlete who could do most any sport well. She played tennis, coached high school volleyball, back country skied and stayed active until life slowed her down. She was an expert seamstress, an excellent cook and loved her garden. One of her greatest joys was spending time with her dogs. Robert, Monika and the dogs could ski and hike out their front door … and they often did!
Monika had Alzheimer’s disease and her decline over many years was bravely managed by her beloved husband with help from friends and Methow At Home. During her last year Monika lived at the Welcome Home Villa in Omak. There she received amazing care. The staff helped ease her struggle and showed bottomless patience and kindness. We are so grateful to them all.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Oct. 3 at the Twisp Valley Grange. In lieu of flowers, please support Methow at Home … and maybe go cut a few turns for Monika next winter in the snow!
