A Memorial Service for Richard (Dick) C. Selzler was held on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at the Kersley Community Hall.
Dick was born in Kelowna on October 5, 1931 and died in Quesnel on September 11, 2010.
Dick moved to Kersley in 1952 when his parents bought the K and H General Store. In the early years Dick owned a lumber truck; he transported rough lumber from the numerous bush mills and delivered it to the few planner mills in the area. Later he was employed at the Kersley Lumber Sawmill and subsequently at West Fraser Mills before retiring in 1992. He and his father Tony also raised cattle on a farm on Dale Landing Road in Kersley. They sold the farm in the early 1970’s.
On June 19, 1970, Dick married Alice, and their combined family comprised six children. The kids recall memories of camping trips, trips to Alice’s parent’s dairy farms, and the annual Australian picnic. They remember that he showed great patience while driving the station wagon which was loaded with 6 kids and the dog. After the kids grew up and left home, Dick and Alice continued camping and fishing with family and friends. They enjoyed their annual trip to Puntzi Lake, holidaying with family in Hawaii, the Yukon, the Maritimes, and an Alaskan cruise.
When Santa could not make it to the Kersley School Children’s Christmas party, Dick was called upon to fill in. He was also one of the first 4-H leaders in Kersley.
During 55 years of community service, Dick held the positions of President and Treasurer with the Kersley Community association. He further held the position of Director of the Kersley Community Fire Commission. Over the years, Dick received numerous awards for his community service. A tree is planted in appreciation and recognition of the many years of service which he gave to this community.
He leaves behind his wife Alice; son Dean (Marlene) Selzler; Stepson, Steven (Joan) Lund; Stepdaughters, Leslie Lund (Gerry Grant); Katherine (John) Prentice; Terry (Roland) Sawatsky; and Shannon (Wayne) Jacobsen; brother, Stanley Selzler and family and sister, Diane McDougall and sons.
Papa had a special warmth in his heart for his 12 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his parents Anthony and Elizabeth Selzler.
Alice thanks family and friends for visiting Dick during his illness. Thank you for all those that brought dishes of food, fresh fruit, vegetables, baking, cards and flowers. Alice offers a special acknowledgement to the following people and agencies that supported her during this difficult time; the Kersley First Responders, Kersley Community Association, Front Street Pharmacy, Home Support and hospital staff, Dr. McDonald, Rev. Martin Peyton, Palliative Hospice House; the staff and volunteers, and Clayton Funeral Directors.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Dick’s memory by way of donation may do so to the Quesnel Chapter of the BC Cancer Foundation or the Quesnel and District Hospice Palliative Care Association.