Ollie’s Treehouse: A Place for Love, Memories, and Community

On March 8, 2021, at 7:21 p.m., Oliver "Ollie" Whelehan Courtney was born still, weighing 5 pounds, 14 ounces, and measuring 21 inches long. Though Ollie’s time here was far too short, his memory lives on through the love of his family and a special place at Camp Stella Maris where he will always be remembered.

For Ollie’s mom, Margaret, Camp Stella Maris has been a home through every season of her life. She spent eight summers as a camper, seven summers as a counselor, and nine years serving on the Board of Directors. It’s where she met her very best friends and built relationships that have lasted well beyond her summers at camp. CSM is also part of her family’s history. Her Grandpa Wheels was one of the original campers, her dad and his siblings attended camp, and several of her cousins served on staff.

When it came time to create a memorial for Ollie, there was no place more meaningful than CSM.

Nestled in the grove near the high ropes course, amphitheater, and Sunset Strip, Ollie’s Treehouse was dedicated on June 21, 2023. It became a reality through the generosity of a community that came together to honor Ollie, with individuals and organizations contributing money, time, creativity, talent, and materials to bring this special space to life.

Today, Ollie’s Treehouse is more than a memorial. During summer camp, it offers campers a quiet place to relax, find shade, and participate in small-group activities. Other groups who visit camp enjoy the space in much the same way. It is a place to pause, connect with others, and find a little peace amid the activity of camp.

Since its dedication, the treehouse has continued to grow, with thoughtful additions including a ladder, new swing chairs, and a beautiful sun embedded in the front railing. These improvements help keep the space welcoming and enjoyable for everyone who visits.

Help Ollie’s Treehouse Continue to Grow

Ollie’s Treehouse is a special part of Camp Stella Maris, and we want it to remain a welcoming place for years to come. As the treehouse continues to be enjoyed by campers, visitors, and Ollie’s loved ones, ongoing support helps us care for the space, maintain its features, and add new touches that make it even more special.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps preserve this meaningful place and allows Ollie’s Treehouse to continue growing over time. Whether supporting needed upkeep or making a new additions possible, your generosity helps ensure that this space remains a place to relax, connect, play, and remember.

Ollie may not be here to play, but his presence is felt in the space created in his honor. Thanks to the generosity of this community, his memory continues to be part of the Camp Stella Maris experience.

“Where I can almost touch the sky in Ollie’s Treehouse way up high.”

Ollie's Treehouse

In memory of Oliver Whelehan Courtney