Willis H.Selje "Bill" age 99, a long-time resident of Merrimac, Wisconsin passed away on Saturday, April 15th at Columbia County Health Center. He was born in the township of Hampden on September 23, 1923 to Arthur & Edna Selje. He enlisted in the Armed Services at age of 19 and after his discharge he returned to Merrimac.

The story goes that Bill and his friend, Dean Purcell were driving to Baraboo when they passed Viv Adams & Donna Reddemann walking along a country road. Dad eyed Viv and said, "I'm going to marry that girl." Dean went on to marry Donna and Dad swooped Viv off her feet and they were married on January 13, 1948. They were married for 75 years and together they created a beautiful life and raised 6 children in Merrimac.  Having lived 99 years on this planet, Bill had many wonderful attributes and accomplishments including loving husband, calm & giving Dad. Bill was a WWII Veteran, serving in the Army 106th Reconnaissance Troop 106th Infantry Division. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was a Purple Heart recipient. He worked as a carpenter & cabinet maker most of his life. The family lived in West Merrimac and had a cottage in East Merrimac which they "trekked" to on the weekends.

Bill never learned to swim yet he annually installed 2 piers and waterskied, both selfless acts to pamper his wife & family. After retiring, Bill & Viv spent many winters warming their bones in Florida andTexas, but most years were spent in the Arizona desert. He was a highly skilled craftsmen always willing to lend a hand. Funny, honest, patient, extremely humble, understated, and gentle. Did I mention gentle?

He is survived by his wife, Vivienne, the love of his life. Children: Kristi (Bert) Klein, Lindsi (Don) Campton, Julie Selje, Kurt Selje, Karla Selje, Margo Selje. Grandchildren: Craig Campton, Carrie Campton, Karsten (Jillian) Klein, Emmy Albergo, Will Sandberg, Sonja (Ross) Brown, and Lona Imhoff. Great Grandchildren: Logan & Caden Klein, Danielle Campton, Kierstyn Will, Gianni & Domenic Gubbins, Luciana Lombardi, Ezmae & Oliver Sandberg, Anka Brown Great, Great Grandchildren: Dane Shoemaker He was preceded in death by his parents Arthur & Edna Selje, sister, Pearl (Huey) Ramaker, and brother Sidney (Florence) Selje.

Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 am on Friday, April 21 at Merrimac Methodist Church, followed by a Service at 11:00 am, and concluding with a burial with Military Honors at Oak Hill Cemetery, Merrimac, WI.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Veterans Administration for their continued support and to the staff and residents of Columbia County Health Center for the care and kindness they gave Bill over the past two plus years. Thank you also to Heartland Hospice care givers. Their tender touch approach and assistance is deeply appreciated. Cards may be sent to Vivienne Selje, 131 Vega Drive, Arlington, WI 53911