Selje, Bob, CW5

Robert F. Selje, 47, died June 11, 2011, at Duke University Hospital, surrounded by his family after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Bob was a 28-year veteran of the U.S. Army, joining after high school, and had attained the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Five. A respected and experienced cavalry pilot, he flew Kiowa helicopters, and was a test pilot and flight instructor for the Army. Bob deployed to combat on multiple occasions serving in Iraq, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, Afghanistan, the Balkans, Panama and Granada. Flying was his passion. Assigned to the Aviation Applied Technology Directorate at Fort Eustis, Va., he was committed to serving his country as an Army aviator, and held the respect and admiration of superiors, peers, and subordinates alike. Bob was born June 10, 1964, in Madison, Wis., where he graduated from LaFollette High School in 1982. He was a dedicated Soldier and a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His passions were his family and the Army he served. He was preceded in death by his father, Francis Selje. Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his son, Benjamin; and his daughters, Theresa and Julia of Williamsburg, Va. He is also survived by his loving mother, Barb Endres of Madison, Wis.; his stepmother, Deb Selje of Madison, Wis.; his sister, Lynn Swerig of Janesville, Wis.; and his sister, Angela Grass of Oregon, Wis. Bob will be lovingly remembered by numerous family members and countless friends, fellow Soldiers, and aviation industry colleagues. His wit, indomitable spirit, and selfless courage will serve as an inspiration to all who were blessed to know him. The family will receive friends at 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 12, 2011, followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains, Williamsburg, VA 23188. Bob will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Bob's memory to the Selje Family's Educational Fund. The mailing address is RE/MAX Capital, Barbara Selje/Selje Memorial, 1166 Jamestown Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185. Published in Daily Press from July 9 to July 10, 2011