Steven David Selig

GILFORD - Steven David Selig, 71, of Gilford and Amelia Island, Fla., died Monday, Aug. 4, 2014, after a long fight with cancer.

Steve was born on Nov. 9, 1942, in Laconia, the son of Irving and Frances Brindis Selig. Steve graduated from Laconia High School in 1960. He earned a bachelor's degree in history from Syracuse University in 1964.

Upon graduation, he joined the U.S. Air Force. He flew B-52 aircraft for five years, completing more than 250 combat missions during the Vietnam War. Attaining the rank of captain, Steve was awarded several medals, including the Presidential Unit Citation (twice); the Air Medal (10 times); the Distinguished Flying Cross (twice); and the Silver Star.

After military service, Steve joined the family business and became senior vice president for sales and then president of Laconia Shoe Company Inc., as well as president of its branded division - Street Cars. After selling the company, Steve joined Craddock-Terry Inc., in Lynchburg Va., as executive vice president in charge of sales, marketing and product design. In 1998, he founded his own company, Selig Enterprises Company Inc.

Steve was kind, passionate and enjoyed life to the fullest. He was a ski instructor at Gunstock for 24 years. While he was a ski coach at Gilford High School for eight years, his teams won five N.H. state ski championships. He loved golf and spent many days on the golf course in Laconia and Amelia Island. Those who were fortunate to play with Steve described him as a graceful and low-handicap golfer.

Steve also loved sailing. He was a member of the Winnipesaukee Yacht Club in Gilford since 1977. He served as commodore and as a board member.

Steve also had a love of art. He was an accomplished photographer.

Steve is survived by his wife, Jeanie; and four children, Todd and Loren Selig of Durham, Tammy and Chris Stevens of Belmont, Tari Selig of Manchester and Tiffany Selig of Manchester. Papa Steve has four wonderful grandchildren: Zoe, Gabi, Ella and David. He also is survived by his brother and sister, Bob and Joyce Selig of Laconia and Peggy Selig of Laconia; sister-in-law Karen and Hershel Thrasher of Shelbyville, Tenn.; brother-in-law John and Jenny England of Huntland, Tenn.; seven nieces and nephews; 19 great-nieces and great-nephews; and numerous cousins..

SERVICES: A memorial service will be held on Monday, Aug. 11, at 2 p.m. at Temple B'nai Israel at 210 Court St., Laconia.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Nathan and Jennie Brindis Charitable Trust, P.O. Box 160, Laconia, NH 03247.