Rich was born in Pittsburg, PA, on December 21, 1939, and tragically died after an accident on his scooter on January 19, 2021. Rich was the only child of Edith and Vern Selph of Pelham, New York. He graduated from Pelham High School in 1957 and attended Dartmouth College. He became a Naval Aviator choosing to fly C130s in the Marine Corps. He joined Pan Am in January of 1965, flying the many routes and airplanes of Pan Am. He was assigned to Berlin in 1973 and loved flying the “corridors”. When Pan Am sold their Pacific Divison, Rich brought his family to San Francisco in 1986 to fly with United. He retired as a 747-400 Captain at age 60. Rich always said he was blessed to find a job he loved – flying!
Rich and Ann were married in 1965 and enjoyed a wonderful, adventurous, full life together for 56 years with their four children and seven grandchildren. He was an excellent husband and father. He brought joy to his family by sharing his love of adventure; he taught Ann and the children to ski, sail, explore the world and live in many different places, both in the US and Europe. But, most of all, he instilled in his chidren a love of learning. With his great brain he imparted critical thinking, causing many “lively” conversations. Rich had a joyous laugh, making all those around him want to be in his company. He loved his friends and always gave generously of himself. He stayed connected to many friends from all eras of his life. No matter where he lived, he participated and gave back to the community.
Rich left behind the broken hearts of Ann, his children Elizabeth, Brac (Daina), Catherine (Aaron) and David (Christine). His seven grandchildren, Braeden, Van, Chloe, Benjamin, Lucas, Amelia and Isabelle Ann will very much miss his playfulness, humor and love.