Dr. Robert George Sellig

Dr. Robert George Sellig passed away on Wednesday, March 30, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

Like so many impacted by COVID, Bob fought a courageous battle against Covid and pneumonia. His heart, mind, and spirit were stronger than his lungs. The end came too quickly and was a shock to us.  This is a sad time for so many who knew him. He was 80 years old.

Bob was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.  Family always came first to Bob, and he provided for his loved ones with full dedication.  Bob was a devoted husband, married to his adoring wife, Sara, for 57 years.  They enjoyed a wonderful life together and are survived by their three loving children and eleven grandchildren including his eldest son, Tom (Wayne, PA), Tom’s wife Tiffany and four children, Mason, Courtney, Lily, and Izzy; Bob’s middle child, Beth (Missoula, MT), and Beth’s husband Bob and three children, Zach, Ari, and Micah; and Bob’s youngest child, Kathryn (Chevy Chase, MD) and four children, Jake, Evan, Natalie, and Claire.  Bob is also survived by his brother, John Sellig, his wife Elaine; and Bob’s sister Marian Kaczynski  and her late husband Frank, all of whom he remained close throughout Bob’s life and especially enjoying winters together in Florida.

Bob was born on May 14, 1941 in Webster, Massachusetts to George Sellig, a Superintendent of Schools, and Marion Sellig, a math teacher.  He attended Harvard University and medical school at the University of Vermont.  After medical school, Bob joined the Navy where he served as a flight surgeon.  After the Navy, Bob completed his residency in Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh.  Bob and Sara eventually moved to the perfect location to raise their family in Glens Falls, New York, surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains and the beautiful waters of Lake George.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Bob devoted his life to healing and caring for others.  He practiced medicine for 26 years at Glens Falls Hospital and in private practice.  During his career he treated thousands of patients and was admired and respected by fellow physicians, nurses, and staff.  Bob was also dedicated to a life of service, volunteering in many capacities including a local clinic for children with severe developmental needs.  After retirement, Bob continued his service working with the elderly and his beloved service dog, Trina. 

Outside of his medical practice and volunteerism, Bob had many interests, hobbies, and activities that he passionately pursued.  As an avid sailor, he enjoyed many summers sailing on Lake George and Lake Champlain.  He loved travelling and vacationing with Sara, friends, and family.  Bob was also an enthusiastic cyclist, completing several century rides and usually having a bike in tow during his travels.  A passionate lifelong pianist, Bob spent hours practicing, attending piano camp in New Hampshire, performing for others, and enjoying music.

Bob was always there with incredible quiet strength, usually with the New York Times in his hands, always prepared to share a joke or interesting article with his family.  He was dedicated to a lifetime of learning, reading voraciously, and attending classes in different international and domestic locations.  He was incredibly humble and always approachable whenever patients, family, or friends asked him a question on almost any topic imaginable.  He was happy to share his knowledge and would spend hours laughing and reminiscing about old stories and friends.

Bob will be deeply missed and always loved. 

We will celebrate the life of Bob Sellig at the First Presbyterian Church at 400 Glens Street, Glens Falls, New York on Saturday, April 9 at 10:00 visitation and 11:00 service.  All are welcomed. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations either to the American Lung Association at https://action.lung.org/site/Donation  or the Prospect Center in Queensbury, NY at https://www.cfdsny.org/donation-form