Eric Ronald Sellman

Eric Ronald Sellman, 46, passed away peacefully Monday, May 16, 2011, with his loving family by his side. He battled cancer with the same determination, grace and dignity that he lived his life. He was preceded in death by his mother, Molly Erickson Sellman. He is survived by his fiancée, Nannette Hebert Palmer; his father, Ronald Sellman; his sister, Ann, her husband, Grady Harper, and their children, Hayden and Ellie. Eric Attended Episcopal High School in Baton Rouge from 7th-12th grades. Upon graduation in 1983, he moved to New Orleans for college. Some of his fondest college memories took place at 1200 Broadway St.; the Tulane SAE house. He was a very active SAE, holding many leadership roles, planning important events and arranging many a memorable skiing trip. The friendships made during this time were life lasting and particularly supportive during the last year. After graduating in 1988, Eric's adventurous spirit took him to Australia where he lived for a year. Upon his return, he and a friend founded "Passport New Orleans," a tourism guide for the French Quarter. He continued to live and work in the Quarter for many years after that. At the time of his illness, he was a project manger for The Shaw Group in Baton Rouge. That is where he met his fiancée and love of his life, Nan. Nan spent every day of the last 14 months with Eric on his rollercoaster of cancer. Eric was an avid reader, loved history, music, photography and art. He loved to photograph his many travels. He was known for his humor, quick wit and stunning creativity. He was a masterful cartoonist, clever impersonator and talented writer. No matter where he lived or visited, or what he was doing, his infectious personality and positive outlook drew a crowd. His joie-de-vivre and caring heart will be deeply missed. Eric was a loving son, wonderful brother, a great friend to all, a best friend to many and the soul-mate to one. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Eric's life Saturday, June 11, at Mary Queen of Peace Church in Mandeville. Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. with a memorial service to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Eric's name to the National Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home of Covington is in charge of the arrangements. Sign online guestbook at www.ejfieldingfh.com.