James Richard Selig

James Richard Selig, 87, Topeka, Kan., formerly of Bella Vista, passed away Monday, Oct. 13, 2014. He was born March 19, 1927, in Lawrence, Kan., the son of John and Agnes (Jost) Selig. He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1945 and earned his bachelor's degree in business from the University of Kansas. He served in the U.S. Army from 1945 until 1947, and the U.S. Air Force from 1951 until 1960. He remained with the reserves from 1961 and retired as lieutenant colonel in 1971. James started his career with the Reuter Organ Company in Lawrence, Kan., as corporate comptroller and treasurer. He continued his career as a plant accounting manager with Becton-Dickinson in Columbus, Neb., where he retired in 1979. After retiring, James and his wife moved to Bella Vista, Ark., where they lived for over 16 years. James and Phyllis later relocated to Topeka, Kan., in June of 2013. He was a member of Kiwanis Civic Club in Lawrence, Kan., Columbus, Neb., and Bella Vista, Ark. He was also a member of Elks Lodge in Columbus, Neb. James married Phyllis Sims on March 31, 1957, in Lawrence, Kan. She preceded him in death. Survivors include three daughters, Lin Selig Shipley, Susan (Roger) Bullington and Sarah Selig, all of Nebraska; three grandchildren, Kelci Shipley of New York, Kevin Shipley of California and Alex Bullington of Nebraska; and one sister, Mary (Adrian) Allen of Kansas. Graveside services will be 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, 2014, at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Lawrence, Kan. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice. Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel, Topeka, is assisting the family. To leave a message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com.