Robert R. Selis

Aug. 22, 1935 - May 4, 2009
SAN DIEGO - Dr. Robert Selis died peacefully at home on May 4, 2009. He was surrounded by his loving wife and all eight of his children. Known best for his wonderful sense of humor and love of life, Dr. Selis showed compassion to all who knew him. Bob was born in Payne, Ohio, on August 22, 1935, as a first generation American to Gabrielle and Hubert Selis who emigrated from Belgium. He graduated from Mishawaka High School and St. Louis University. Bob married Sally Conley and together they had eight beautiful children. Dr. Selis practiced dentistry for 49 years in San Diego. He served on the Dental Peer Review Board for over 15 years and taught dentistry at the University of Southern California. Bob flourished through his passion as a gifted, one-of-a-kind dentist. He took his time with patients, listened carefully to their problems and life stories, told jokes to put them at ease and gave shots that were never felt. Many patients became family friends. "Doc" was respected by his peers, loved by his patients and had a devoted staff. In 1980, Bob married Julie Anne Ruth. Together they loved their horses, camping, Hawaii, the Eastern Sierras, their home in Bishop, road trips in the motor home, and living life with laughter. Bob loved to fish, especially fly fishing for trout. Fishing brought him great peace, if not so many fish. He was the life of the party, as his friends and children will attest to. His dearest friendships span over 45 years. Bob is survived by his wife, Julie; his children, Gabrielle Xavier, Lee Posnock, Eve Selis-Gulotta, Jeanne Selis, Camille Hill, Peter Selis, Dan Selis and Joe Selis; as well as his sister, Virginia Cole, and her husband, Bill of Mishawaka, Indiana. "Daddy Bob," as his 24 grandchildren called him, also had three great-grandchildren. Nieces and nephews, Trace, Renee, Dawn and Bill Jr., will miss him dearly. It has been an honor to be a part of Bob's life. He was a special man and great personality who left imprints on all our hearts. Bob's legacy was to treat people with dignity, kindness and laughter, which is exactly how he fought against pancreatic cancer. Our hearts are broken, but our lives are filled with amazing memories of laughter, love and twinkling blue eyes. You were adored and will forever be missed, Bob, and we are so very grateful for the time we had with you. A Mass in memory of Bob will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2009, in St. Bavo Catholic Church. The web link to view photos is www.eveselis.com/DrSelis. In lieu of flowers, donations are asked to be made in Bob's memory to the American Cancer Society.