Robert W. Selvig

Robert W. Selvig, 99, of Tewksbury, passed away at home July 18 surrounded by his loving family. His parents immigrated to the US from Norway and settled in Chicago where Robert was born. A decade later, his father was transferred to Westfield where Robert would spend early adulthood. His education at UVM and NYU was interspersed with adventures riding the rails, followed by five years in service to his country during WWII as a medic and troop trainer in the Corps of Engineers. The end of the war found Captain Selvig in the Philippines anxious to return to the love of his life and infant son.

The next decade blessed him with two daughters who adored him. First employed by Western Electric, he also worked for Diebold, Helicoid and Phillips companies. Surprising no one, he started his own industrial instrumentation company, Selvig Co. at the age of 55 and continued for forty more years before retiring.

Robert was the consummate husband and father. He coached Little League, taught his daughters how to build things and encouraged his children to believe in themselves. He had a unique sense of humor that often went over peoples' heads but brought many smiles to those whose understood his wit. He completed at least one crossword puzzle each day and enjoyed wood carving, creating many unique walking canes. He was the quintessential representative of the "Greatest Generation".

Robert was predeceased by his wife of 69 years, Charlotte (Bunny) and his son, Robert Jr. He is greatly missed by his daughters Kristine and Sandra, his grandchildren, Jennifer, John and Allison and one great grandchild, Dylan.

Contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation and the American Heart Association. Services will be private. Arrangements by Gray Funeral Home, Westfield. Please go to: www.grayfuneralhomes.com to offer condolences.