Robert Joseph Selene

1920 - 2017

Robert Joseph Selene Robert Joseph Selene, born March 19, 1920 died at his home on December 14, 2017 following a brief illness. Bob was born on his grandfather's homestead near Birch Bay and grew up in Whatcom County, Washington. In 1941 he met and married Arlean Osier in Bellingham. They remained happily married for 72 years. Bob and Arlean lived in Seattle and San Francisco where Bob attended the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science. They purchased a business in Olympia and moved there in 1954. Bob was involved in the Olympia business community throughout his life. He was one of the original founders and past president of Capital Lakefair and continued to serve as a Capitalarian until the end of his life. He was also active in the Washington State Pioneer Association, the Young Men's Business Club, The Olympia Yacht Club, and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. He was known for his interest in antique watches and clocks. Bob was a member of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors and a faithful supporter of local Chapters 50 and 135. He will always be remembered for his humble and kind demeanor, his zest for life and his service to the Olympia community that he loved. Bob is proceeded in death by his infant son Robert M. Selene and his wife Arlean O. Selene. He is survived by his dear friend and life partner Siri Childs of Olympia, his daughter Nadine Selene- Hait, granddaughter Dakota Selene-Hait, both of Olympia, his daughter Marlene Kleven of Guemes Island WA, grandson Dane M. Kleven of Los Angeles CA and grandson Matthias A. Kleven of San Francisco CA. Viewing will be held on December 27th from 10:00 to 2:00 p.m. and a service of internment will take place at 2PM on December 28 at 2PM at Mills and Mills funeral home. A Memorial Service of remembrance will take place at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church on January 2nd at 1:00 p.m. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Capital Lakefair, Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, or NAWCC Chapters 50 and 135.