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George Selke Obituary
George was born in Pittsford, New York. The house on Brook Road was filled with three rough-and-ready boys, George, Paul, and Phillip. He attended Clarkson University in New York for his undergraduate degree in chemical engineering. He then joined the Air Force and earned a Master of Science in Systems Management from the University of Southern California.
George, a natural athlete in any sport, started skiing at a young age in New York. His military service took him to Colorado, where he continued to pursue his love for skiing throughout his life. He skied for enjoyment and competed in Masters racing competitions. Dogs were also a source of happiness, companionship, and amusement for George. He was a dog lover through and through.
Colorado is where he met the love of his life, Roberta. They began a partnership spanning 35 years, rooted in affection, mutual respect, and abundant joy. Together, they raised two daughters, Grace and Alex. George was an ever-present, guiding force for his daughters. He considered fatherhood to be his greatest accomplishment.
Later in his professional life, George discovered a passion and talent as an educator. He taught third grade for 18 years. He was known for literacy education and inspiring his students to love reading. Former students often contacted George to describe the difference he made in their lives. After retiring from teaching, he enjoyed a fulfilling part-time job as a Library Specialist where he fused his love for reading with helping others-a perfect combination.
He was an avid traveler. Many international adventures were had with Roberta throughout their years together. He would light up when describing stories of family trips and traveling with friends.
George is survived by his wife, Roberta; his beloved daughters, Alex and Grace (son-in-law, Jaidan Millar); his brothers, Paul and Phillip (sister-in-law, Marybeth). Numerous nieces and nephews, whom he cherished, also survive him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard and Frances. George leaves a vast network of friends and loved ones.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to ReadingPartners.org, a literacy program that helps young children build their reading proficiency.
26 Entries
Gerry Lacey
June 18, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with George at Iron Horse Elementary. He had such great comments during faculty meetings and inservices. George and Roberta also went bike riding with Pam and I on our electric bikes, A great man, a great educator!!!
Daniel Hamlin
May 13, 2025
Roberta, Alex, and Grace, I offer my deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies. May God grant you the strength to endure, peace, and harmony during this challenging time.
Danny
Debra Jo Endres-Ard | Lizton, IN USA
May 13, 2025
I am sorry and deeply saddened by your family´s tremendous loss. Please know each of you is being held close in thought and prayer during this painfully difficult time. Sending my heartfelt condolences and many hugs for all.
Julie Heffernan
May 10, 2025
George and I became fast friends when he joined the library staff, and I always looked forward to our shifts together. His wide range of interests and talents never ceased to amaze me and we were never at a loss for things to talk about. Most of all, what stood out was the deep love and admiration George had for his family. His presence will be deeply missed. My heartfelt condolences to Roberta, Alex, and Grace.
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Katelyn Finley
May 9, 2025
I was so surprised and sad to hear of George's passing. Whenever we worked at the same library branch, we'd share updates about one another's family and happenings. We'd realized I lived near where he previously taught, and I taught too, so we talked about teaching and he shared excitement about his student's published works.
George loved to share photos, updates about his kids, and travels. He shared more than once that he was just happy his kids were home, safe, and well - their wellbeing mattered more to him than anything. He brightened with excitement when he saw his wife, Roberta, at the library. His immense love for his family, and excitement for their lives, was always part of what he shared.
I admired how George made sure to have so much fun in his regular schedule, he seemed to schedule many things he enjoyed: routinely going to yoga, enjoying the outdoors, traveling, and being with family. He seemed to live each day with a great perspective of joy, love, fun, and adventure.
Linda
May 8, 2025
Roberta, Grace and Alex, my deepest sympathy to you as you have had to say goodbye. I hope you can find comfort through your memories and always feel George's love within yourselves.
George, as your cousin, I have many wonderful memories of you throughout my life. Times I treasure. I will always remember your thoughtful eyes, infectious smile and your kindness and interest in others. I miss you and hold you in my heart. I am so fortunate to have these moments to remember you.
Karen Barton
May 7, 2025
I always enjoyed working on desk at the library with George. We had great conversations about all kinds of things. We often talked politics, on which we whole-heartedly agreed! He was a wonderful human, so good with patrons of all ages, and we miss him at Castlewood library. My condolences to your family.
Sun Abreha
May 6, 2025
I have only known George for a brief while but he was always kind to me. He made a difference with his quite kindness. I will remember him fondly.
Mary Lisa Harper
May 4, 2025
It is with deep sadness and warm remembrance that I say goodbye to my colleague and friend, George. He was more than just a teacher-he was a spark of wit, fun, and feisty energy in every room he entered. I had the privilege of working alongside him and always appreciated the laughter, wisdom, and passion he brought to his work.
George made a lasting impression on many, including my own daughter, who counted him among her favorite teachers. His gift for connecting with students and bringing learning to life was truly special.
To Roberta and his daughters, I send my heartfelt condolences and blessings. May you find comfort in knowing how deeply George was loved and admired by those who knew him.
He will be missed, but his spirit and legacy live on in all the lives he touched.
Sue cave
May 2, 2025
My dear sweet George, you will be so missed....our hearts are heavy. The Widgeteers will miss our honorary widgeteer. What an amazing life you had, and I am blessed have called you friend.
Tina Rodriguez Cullen
May 2, 2025
My condolences to the family. George and I enjoyed talking about travel and our upcoming vacation plans. I will miss your smiling face.
Cathy Mastin
May 1, 2025
What wonderful memories I hold in my heart of fun, kind and wonderful George! I love you Roberta!
Ashley Keller
April 30, 2025
You were always such a wonderful kind man with an infectious smile.
Mo Khan
April 30, 2025
I will miss our conversations on grilling. Rest in peace my friend.
Jeff Davis
April 30, 2025
Roberta, my heart is deeply saddened for you and the girls. Find peace in your incredible memories.
Linda Speas
April 30, 2025
My deepest condolences to George's family. George made an impact on our libraries, our staff and our patrons and he will be very much missed. His smile, his kindness and genuine caring for others has been mentioned in every conversation - we are grateful for the time he spent with us.
Hannah Hankins
April 30, 2025
Your smile and love of the library was always contagious for staff and patrons!
Judy Nguyen
April 30, 2025
You've always had gentle eyes and a kind smile, George. I'll miss seeing you around at the library.
Nicole W
April 29, 2025
My deepest sympathies to your family during this difficult time. George was fun to work with and I enjoyed our conversations. He always had interesting stories to tell.
Sharon Kuhn
April 29, 2025
I will remember George fondly. We always talked about his 2 girls and mine and how they were the light of our lives. He was so proud of them and his family. I will miss him lots. - Sharon Kuhn Library Specialist
Lizzie Stacks
April 29, 2025
One conversation with George and it was obvious how much he loved his wife and daughters. He bragged about his daughters and their life and always told me just how good Roberta was at the mini crossword. Arapahoe Library District will miss him greatly. I know I will miss his calm demeanor and excellent conversation. Rest in peace, George.
Jennifer Martin
April 29, 2025
George was an amazing colleague - we are going to miss him!
Colin McGuire
April 29, 2025
It was a joy working with you at the library George. I always loved swapping travel stories with you.
Lisa LeRoy
April 27, 2025
Oh Bobbi! I just don't have words for how sorry I am. You and George were such a large part of Alex and Richie's boyhood. He was a wonderful man. Lisa LeRoy
Carol
April 26, 2025
George, we will miss you so much. I'm thankful that I had the privilege of being your cousin.
Tootie Lyons
April 26, 2025
George, you are the Best! You are the epitome of what every man should be.
I miss you and love you very much.
Tootie Lyons, Sister-in-Law
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