Roger Seelye Sr., 94

Roger Tolman Seelye Sr., age 94, of Marcellus and Three Rivers, passed away Thursday, November 17, 2022 at Safe Haven Assisted Living, surrounded by his loving family. He joins his wife of 67 years, Linda, who preceded him on November 1, 2022.

Born September 14, 1928 in Kalamazoo, the son of Arthur and Alymira (Tolman) Seelye, he graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School with the Class of 1947.

Roger served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War; upon his return, he utilized the GI Bill to earn a two-year agricultural degree at Michigan State College.

As part of his studies at MSC, he brought pigs to the St. Joseph County Grange Fair. One day during Fair Week 1954, he laid eyes on Linda Flack, who was showing dairy cows as a member of the 4-H program. Love at first sight led to marriage on October 22, 1955.

A year and a half later, Roger and Linda purchased a house in Nicholsville, where they lived the remainder of their married life and raised a wide variety of farm animals. Dispensing wisdom and warmth in the community of 12 houses and 40 people, Roger earned the title “Mayor of Nicholsville.”

Through his career as a Michigan State Highway Inspector, he ensured safe roadways for millions of travelers.

Roger enjoyed woodcarving, gardening, and canning. He and Linda made the perfect artistic pair as she painted his wooden creations, which they then gifted to others. Each year, family and friends received miniature bird carvings. He often carved special pieces for her each year to mark Valentine’s Day, their anniversary, and Christmas.

Besides his family, three things were most important in his life: the Detroit Tigers – win or lose, Michigan State University – win or lose, and his service in the Korean War.

Remaining to cherish Roger’s memory are his sons, Roger T. Seelye Jr. of Wayland and Berwyn Arthur (Amy) Seelye of Otsego; daughter, Joyce (Steve) Gyllstrom of Three Rivers; grandchildren, Alex (Ashley) Gyllstrom, Eric (Leslie) Gyllstrom, Ellie Seelye, and Jack Seelye; step-granddaughters, Abigail (Bryan) Bellamy and Molly (Mike) Werner; great-grandchildren, Gwen Gyllstrom and one due in February; nine step-great-grandchildren; brother, Richard “Dick” (Betty) Seelye; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, one brother, and two sisters.

In accordance with family wishes, cremation will be conducted, and a memorial service held in the spring.

Donations in Roger’s memory may be directed to the Cass County Fair Sheep Department. Envelopes are available at and may be sent to Hohner Funeral Home.