Thomas E. Selep "Pap"'s Obituary
After a life well lived, Thomas E. Selep passed from this life on October 16, 2020, at the age of 85. His faith in God and the love of Jesus gives us hope that he is now with his parents, Andrew and Anna Selep, and his brother Andrew. He is survived by his sister, Julianne (John) Shaver. Tom met the love of his life, Connie, in high school. They dated during his years at the University of Maryland and were married shortly after his graduation. Their love endured through 64 years of marriage and created a family that spans 4 generations. They had five children: Michael (Julie), Barbara Brunetti, Debbie Johnson, Jill (Chris) Gramm, and Jennifer (Brian) Kilgus. Laurel, Ben, John, Jason (Maria), Corey, Kari (Jody), Kimi (Brian), Greg, Jake, Tommy, Abby, Jordan, Carlee, and Noah are devoted grandchildren. A fourth generation was added as precious great grandchildren Molly and Colton Brunetti became a part of the family. Together we all celebrate, with grateful hearts, his commitment to family!
Tom was a gifted athlete. In high school he played football, basketball, and baseball for California High School and also played trumpet in the marching band. His athletic abilities won him a football scholarship at the University of Maryland. While playing football, he earned a degree in mechanical engineering, which led to a career in the steel industry in Pittsburgh. He helped to build steel mills not only in his home town, but also in California, Indiana, and Wales, in the United Kingdom.
Along with family and his career, Tom loved sports and traveling. He participated in bowling and golf, vacations at the beach, and occasional trips to the casino. He was also a fan of college and professional sports and was content to watch all, but had a special appreciation for the Steelers and Pens. Together with Connie, their favorite spot and winter home was Sanibel Island, Florida. This became a beloved place where they hosted family to bring warmth and sunshine to visitors during cold Pittsburgh winters.
Tom was a solid man. He provided guidance and support to all. In his quiet way, he let people know that he always had their backs. He will be missed, but we will be forever grateful for the memories he created and for the lives he touched.
Services and interment will be private and under the care of JEFFERSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME INC., 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh PA 15236. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Gallagher Foundation (Hospice), 1370 Washington Pike Suite 401B, Bridgeville PA 15017, or a charity of your choice that has blessed your life. Condolences may be shared online at www.jeffersonmemorial.biz.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?