Charlie Selna

Charles "Charlie" Samuel Selna, 92, of Tracy, California, passed away peacefully at home on July 7th, 2025, surrounded by his family. He is preceded by his sisters Pat Selna and Charlotte Conner, and his brothers-in-law Jim Noah and Wayne Conner. Born on May 4th, 1933, to Charles and Ann Selna, Charlie was the second oldest of four siblings. He attended Tracy High School graduating in 1951. He enlisted in the Air Force and proudly served his country in the Korean War. After, he worked for PG&E for forty-five years. He was a soldier, an electrician, a woodworker, a hunter, a fisherman, a gardener, a camper, and much more. Despite being a jack of all trades, Charlie was most importantly a faithful Catholic, devoted husband, loving father, and supportive Papa. Charlie met his wife, Marielena "Lena," in 1961 on a blind date. Anyone that knows Charlie and his one-liner sense of humor, knows that he liked to say that "he was blind." However, two years later, Charlie and Lena were married on April 20th, 1963. Soon after, their family grew with the additions of their first son Greg, their daughter Stephanie, and their second and third sons, Chuck and Rob. Charlie could be seen driving around Tracy in his "Green Grenade," a 1972 Ford F-100, but the first thing that everyone noticed about him was his firm handshake. However, Charlie had an even firmer commitment to his family and those he loved. Family was everything to him, and he loved spending time with his children and ten grandchildren, who knew him as "Papa." Whether it was a simple visit, coffee after church at Aunt Pat's, a sporting event, holiday or family party, Charlie was there with a smile, a story, and a helping hand – always asking, "Is there anything that I can help you with?" He was selfless, and was an usher at Saint Bernard's Catholic Church for 75 years. Charlie never needed the spotlight or to be the center of attention to make an impact on those around him. He led by example and taught the people in his life the values of hard work, humility and service. If something needed fixing, moving, or a second pair of hands, he was the first one to help even before being asked, and he always did things the right way. He was patient, loyal, kind, friendly, and funny. Charlie is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Lena, and his four children: Greg Selna (Sonia), Stephanie Grim (Jon), Chuck Selna (Joan) and Rob Selna (Monica) and his sister Helen Noah. He is also survived by his ten grandchildren: Kyle Selna (Gabby), Mitchell Selna (Marissa), Emilee Biehl (Jacob), Marshall Grim (Alyssa), Olivia Grim, Cal Selna, Claire Selna, Elisa Grim, Briget Selna, Nathan Selna, along with his many loving nieces and nephews. Charlie loved life and was grateful for every day that God gave him. He always said that it was a good day when he woke up and "his name wasn't in the paper." Now that his name is finally in the paper, he will be greatly missed and forever remembered. The Selna Family would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the following individuals and organizations for their exceptional care and support for Charlie: Dr. S Patel and his staff, JM Agency and their dedicated caregivers, Amore Hospice and their compassionate team. As well as Robert and Sarah Ornellas and Bob and Paula Case. "Charlie's Angels" were truly one of a kind. Your kindness and care meant so much to Charlie and to all of us. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Charlie's name to a charity of your choice. Services are held in Tracy, California: Rosary - Tuesday 07/15/2025 at 6:00 PM at Fry Memorial Chapel Catholic Mass - Wednesday 07/16/2025 at 10:30 AM at St. Bernard's Catholic Church Burial Services will be private. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charlie Selna, please visit our floral store.