Selma Jane Rockey Denecke

To the Denecke family: Your mother changed my life. It was the summer of 1954. I had just graduated from Lake Oswego High School, and was expecting to go to the U of O and be a Kappa like my mother and sister. Somehow I had this feeling that I was meant to do something else.
Selma came to our house, (Your father was in my father's law firm.) and told me of the wonders of Scripps College. She was so sincere and enthusiastic that I changed my plans that afternoon. Selma was right;...

My thoughts and love go to all of the Denecke family.

As a "niece-in-law", I will always remember your mom for "her warmth, class, grace and willingness to engage people of all persuasions", as you said so well in your wonderful tribute to Selma’s life. I also remember many other wonderful events that happened along the way, but this trait of Selma’s touched me the most.

I have always felt as if I have been sincerely included as part of your family. Selma took the time...

Ginger, David, Will, John, and Anne,

Your Mother, dear Selm, was always 'Twin' to my mother, Sue Grout Chilton. I'd heard of many fun days the guys and girls would spend on the water, and their love for those impromptu picnics. Robin and I think the photo I dropped off is a snap shot of those great days. I have another I will uncover after unpacking to share.

Truly the end of an era... and we should pause with loss, move forward with the strength she offered, and...

Please accept my gratitude and sympathy. Selma was a loyal and much appreciated volunteer at Albertina's Restaurant for at least 20 years! I worked at Albertina Kerr Centers during her service there, and always loved seeing her at the reservation desk. She was such a P.R. person, not only for the Restaurant
, but also for the work of the Center.She was a major player in the success of the Albertinas adventure. Thank you for loaning her to us. Jane Richardson

Anne and family,

So sorry to hear of Selma's passing. She was indeed a great lady and a great "Mom" to all of us. I have thought of her often over the years, always with a smile -- she leaves us with great memories.

The relationship between your mother and each of you is such a special one. You will all count your blessings many times over that Selma was your mother. Grieve not for her loss, but that you had her as a mother, and for all this time.
Our deepest condolences are with you during this time of sadness. She is still inside of you; part of who you are. Her greatest gift to the world.

Love, Tom and Dana Muller

Dear Ginger.... I was so sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. I know how hard it is. You'll miss her but hold those dear memories close to your heart. Much Love
Andrea McCart

Mrs. Deneke has moved on but boy! what she left us. Of course I haven't seen her since swimming in the Deneke pool in the late '60's but I am sure she was still that fun, sophisticated mom who fixed lunch with witty remarks. She was special and always fun and her house was warm and welcoming. She talked to kids as if they were adults. She had New Yorker magazine on her coffee table and when you grow up in Salem, that is impressive. I have the New Yorker on my coffee table and eat avacados...

Your Mother was an inspiration to me. Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Anyone who knew Selma will also feel the loss. She was a wonderful, intelligent, entertaining lady and I am proud to have known her.