William SELBY

SELBY, William (Bill) Ernest
October 16, 1929 – September 11, 2017
On September 11, 2017, our wonderful father William. E. (Bill) Selby left this world to join our mother in heaven after a life of service to the community, devotion to family and dedication to his church. Bill was born in Calgary on October 16, 1929, the son of Lieutenant Colonel Doctor E.R. Selby and Laura Selby. After his schooling in Calgary, he attended The University of Alberta to study science and then Law. He had a long professional career in the oil industry, rising to corporate secretary of Hudson's Bay Oil and Gas and Dome Petroleum followed by a second career as Vice President of Community Relations and Special Advisor to the President of The University of Calgary. Bill was a tireless fundraiser and supporter of many causes with his wife Mary including serving on the boards of the Calgary Zoo, The Alberta Motor Association, The Canadian Automobile Association (Chairman), The Whyte Museum in Banff, the Association of Mountain Parks Protection and Enjoyment, The Calgary Parks Foundation and many others. A raconteur with a devilish sense of humour, a booming baritone voice and a deep infectious laugh, Bill was loved and respected by all who knew him. Possessed of great physical strength and vigour, Bill travelled the world bringing back pictures and stories to stimulate a new generation of travellers. His favourite place, however, was "El Nido" the family cottage in Banff and the surrounding mountains that he explored on foot and as a young driver for Brewster Bus Lines. Bill's greatest love was his family and he derived joy in many hours spent in the company of his children and grandchildren imparting the lessons of a life well lived. Bill was predeceased by his wife Mary, the love of his life, in 2000 and by his brother Ray in 2009. Bill is survived by his children John (Patricia), Gillian (Gordon) and Jennifer (Michael) and by his grandchildren Jack, Maia, Matthew, Connor, Oliver and Harrison. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law Betty Selby, his nephew and nieces, Charles, Cathy and Beth, their families and his cousin Sylvia Ommanney. The family would like to thank Maison Senior Living for the care and friendship he experienced these last few years. A Memorial Services will be held at Christ Church Anglican (3602-8 Street SW) on Saturday, September 16, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made in support of the Mary Selby Scholarship, c/o The Boys and Girls Clubs of Calgary. (www.boysandgirlsclubsofcalgary.ca/ take-action/give/donate-now). Photos, memories and condolences may be shared with Bill's family through www.evanjstrong.com. Arrangements in care of EVAN J. STRONG FUNERAL SERVICES. (403) 265-1199