Selden M Wethli, 82, of Persons Street, Westfield passed away Sunday, October 23, 2016 at home with his family around him. He was born in Westfield on November 22, 1933 to the late William and Mattie (Rowland ) Wethli.
Selden was a member of the United States Air Force from 1953 to 1960, serving in Korea and France.
Following the death of his father in 1966, he became the farm manager for Wright Brothers Farms for 50 years. In 1976, he developed an interest in locksmithing and became certified with the Associated Locksmiths of America. Selden owned and operated S & M Lock and Key Service for 40 years.
He was a member of the Westfield Moose Lodge #118 and a life member of both the Westfield VFW Post 6764 and Westfield American Legion Post #327.
In June of 1974, he joined the Hook and Ladder Company of the Fire Department of Westfield and subsequently also their Exempt Association. He served as captain of the Emergency Squad and was instrumental in setting up the ambulance transport teams. In 2000-2001, he was named Senior Firefighter of the year and was awarded the President's Award (2015-2016) for his 36 years as treasurer of the Exempt Association.
Surviving is his wife of 55 years, Marcia (Ormsby) Wethli and his two daughters, Selicia Gail (James) Sitler of North East, PA and Patricia L. (John) Chapman of Fayetteville, NC. He is further survived by one brother, Ralph (Marilyn) Wethli of Pembroke Pines, FL and Murphy, NC; and his three grandchildren, Christopher, Adam and Amanda Chapman from Fayetteville, NC. Many nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his brother, Marshal Wethli; and three sisters, Violet Stewart, Marian Calkins and Hyacinth Pomeroy.
A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Fire Department of Westfield Emergency Squad, 23 Elm Street, Westfield, NY 14787; or to Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care, 20 W. Fairmount Ave., Lakewood, NY 14750.
Please log on to www.masonfuneral.com to leave Selden's family a message of sympathy or to light a memorial candle.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mason Funeral Home, 37 Clinton Street Westfield, NY 14787.
