Robert "Bob" Selenske

Robert “Bob” John Selenske, age 72 of Westfield, passed away unexpectedly following a cardiac event on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at Aspirus Divine Savior Hospital in Portage.  He was born on April 15, 1949 in Antigo to Peter and Louise (Boelter) Selenske.

Robert grew up just outside of Antigo WI, on his family dairy farm. He attended Antigo High school, graduating in 1967 and went on to obtain an associates degree in teaching at the Langlade County teachers college. He met his wife, Cynthia (Cindy Laycock) in his hometown of Antigo and was united in marriage with her on January 21, 1971.

Bob was an entrepreneur by nature. He was a savvy salesman in the early years of his marriage, with an abundance of confidence and charisma. Bob and Cindy lived across Wisconsin in Antigo, Milwaukee, Rosholt and Fond du Lac until eventually settling down in Westfield in 1976. It was here that Bob began his cash crop potato farming business throughout Coloma and Hancock, proudly selling potatoes and crops to Jays and Oreida among other buyers. He was an active member in the National Potato Council, participating in annual conferences across the United States. Bob loved farming and often described his joy of caring for the crops from the smell of the dirt, to the amazement in watching them grow, through the final days of harvest. Bob purchased Pioneer Floral in Wautoma in 2008 after he closed his cash crop farm. He enjoyed continuing the process of planting and growing in his greenhouse, and found new joy in the many deliveries of flowers, plants and arrangements for the community. Bob felt great pride in the strong work ethic that he instilled in each of his five children through his model of tending to the farm, the shop, encouraging their participation in sports and investing fully in their endeavors.

Bob was a boisterous man with many strong opinions, a loyal heart and immeasurable integrity. He enjoyed all sports, especially golf and skiing. He was a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church and regularly attended mass with his family. He was giving of his time, volunteering for the community, donating items for the church, lectoring, and participating in many charities. He had high expectations for each of his children and thoroughly loved being a father. He also embraced his grandchildren with deep love and generosity. He attended many sporting events, dance recitals and concerts.  He encouraged each of his children and grandchildren with a firm love and big sense of humor. Bob will be lovingly remembered by his infectious and booming laughter.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Louise Selenske; in-laws, Theodore and Virginia Laycock; siblings Charles Selenske, Richard Selenske, Jean Harbor and Andy Selenske; siblings in law, Dan Laycock, Judy Selenske, Corbett Harbor, Daryl Rasmussen; daughter, Denise Reilley; grandchildren, Emma Stephens, Malayna Selenske, and Jamieson Stephens.

Robert is survived by his wife of 50 years, Cindy; four children, Matt (Vadra) Selenske of Almond, Joann (Michael) Stephens of Westfield, Benjamin (Amy) Selenske of Madison, Annette (Mario) LaVia of Westfield; son in law, Kenneth Reilley Jr. of Hancock: Grandchildren: Corbi, Ana, Evelin, Kenzy, Megan, Matt, Sophia, Lorrayne, Mario and a great grandchild, Ian; four siblings, Ron Selenske, Bill Selenske, Bette Hetto and Bonnie Rasmussen, in addition to many cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Bob will be held on Monday, October 11, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Westfield with Father Savio Yerasani officiating.  Burial will be in Westfield East Cemetery.  A visitation will be held on Monday from 11:00 to 12:45 p.m. at Steinhaus-Holly Funeral Home in Westfield.

Many thanks go out to the numerous paramedics, EMTs, firefighters and emergency responders that provided emergency response for Bob.  A special thanks goes out to Jason Hockerman, Tom Hockerman and Chris Klapoetke for their extraordinary service of life saving measures.

Please take a moment to view the online Tribute Wall.  Send your condolences or share a memory of Bob with his family & friends.