Harry Deo Selner

SELNER, Harry Deo
Age 88
of Kalamazoo Harry Deo Selner passed away peacefully on Monday, October 12, 2009 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence following a long struggle with diabetes and congestive heart failurea�"surrounded by his loving family. Harry was born on September 19, 1921 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Perry and Elizabeth Krager Selner; he was the youngest of their seven children. Harry was a graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School and Parsons Business School. A World War II veteran, he proudly served his country overseas in Italy as a battalion sergeant major. He was awarded a Bronze Star and a Distinguished Unit Citation. From 1947 to 1984, Harry was employed as treasurer at DeNooyer Brothers Chevrolet in Kalamazoo. In 1975, the Kalarama Chapter of the American Business Women's Association awarded him as "Boss of the Year." Following high school, he had previously worked for Gibson Guitar, where he crafted rosewood and ebony finger boards for guitars and also roughed out bridges for cellos and bass violas. Harry was an active long time member of Second Reformed Church in Kalamazoo, serving as Sunday school treasurer for seventeen years. As a tireless member of the Downtown Kiwanis Club for fifty-nine years, he demonstrated his passion for serving others less fortunate. He also served as president of the Credit Managers Association of Kalamazoo, treasurer of Central High School PTSA, president of Hillcrest Elementary School PTA, and was a member of several other accountant's associations. Following his retirement, he also volunteered for Meals on Wheels. During his "down time," Harry was an avid bowler with the Downtown Kiwanians; his team reigned as league champions for five years. He also enjoyed working outdoorsa�"tending the flowers in his garden at home and volunteering for the grounds crew at his church. He will be missed by his loving family: devoted wife of 65 years, Betty Oosterbaan Selner, whom he married December 7, 1943; two daughters; Mita Misra of Battle Creek, and Sheila John Miner of Holland; one son, Ronald Carole Selner of Fennville; four grandchildren, Stephanie Christopher Meewes of Chicago; Ashley Selner of Chicago; Julianna Miner and boyfriend, Tyler Murphy, of Muskegon; and Ginger Jeff Feldman of Grand Rapids; three great-grandchildren, Ariana Murphy of Muskegon, Dean and Libby Feldman of Grand Rapids; many nieces, nephews, and a second cousin. He was preceded in death by a son, Eric Selner, in 1995. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A service to celebrate Harry's life will be held Saturday, October 17, 11:00 a.m. at Second Reformed Church 2323 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo. Memorial contributions can be made to CARES Community AIDS Resource and Education Services, Pretty Lake Vacation Camp, or Hospice of Southwest Michigan. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th St. 343-1508. Please visit www.langelands.com to leave a condolence and sign the online register book.