Obituary of Cyril H. Van Selus

Cyril H. Van Selus formally retired on the morning of July 9th, 2015 after a lifetime of loving support to his family and the community in Auburn. Van spent his life focused on helping others, first as a medic during World War II, for which he won a Bronze Star, and later as a community leader in Auburn. He always looked to help those less fortunate, working to pay forward the opportunities he had been given. Throughout the years he spent selling furniture in Auburn, he also dispensed advice with a sparkle in his eye and a dash of humor. He strongly believed in taking care of family, and loved the Auburn community as an extended part of his family. He was engaged in many different parts of local life, serving as Elder in the Presbyterian Church for thirty-five years, Kiwanis Chairman, and American Legion President. In addition, Van served as a mentor for many. He guided local youth as a founder of Auburn Youth Resources and as a member of the Juvenile Court Conference Committee for more than 20 years. His concern about youth extended to a focus on providing education for disadvantaged young people, leading him to campaign for school bonds, serve on the Foundation Board for Green River Community College, and form a scholarship at Green River. His wisdom came from a lifetime of involvement in the community. For his thoughtfulness and guidance, he was named a Citizen of the Year in 1994 and a Hometown Hero in 2001. Most of all, it was important to Van to take care of all the people in his life. He touched many lives with his advice, generosity, and warm smile. He is survived by Nixie, his wife of sixty-nine years, as well as daughter-in-law Virginia Lowe, daughter Karen Carlson, son-in-law Richard Carlson, son Randy Van Selus, son Wayne Van Selus, daughter-in-law Sue Van Selus, seven grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. There will be a Celebration of Life on Thursday, July 16th at 3:00 PM at First United Methodist Church, 100 N Street SE in Auburn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Auburn Food Bank, Auburn Youth Resources, or Green River College Foundation.