Muriel N. Selden's Obituary
Muriel Newsham SeldenMay 18, 1913 --December 12, 2002Beloved Mother and GrandmotherMuriel Selden died peacefully at the home of her son and in the presence of her loving family. She is survived by her sister Florence Vanpfy, her daughters Pamela (Kurt) Mayer and Marsha (Lloyd) Williams and her son Rick (Sharon) Selden. Her grandchildren include Natalie (Don) Mayer-Yeager, Joe (Gloria) Mayer, Anne (Keith) Shawe, Cindy (Larry) Rantanen, Jeff (Terry) Selden, and Gayle Selden and six great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.Muriel was born in Wilkeson and moved to Tacoma in 1923. A graduate of KnappÂ's Business College, she served as secretary in several businesses before marrying Edward Selden in 1936. Though she enjoyed many years of happy family life, they divorced in 1964. As a Federal Civil Service employee, she volunteered for Vietnam and spent 15 months in Long Binh, South Vietnam with Comptroller Management Division. She arrived in Vietnam just days before the 1968 Tet Offensive began and returned home in May, 1969. Her 55th birthday was celebrated by riding a motorcycle on the streets of Saigon. She also achieved a real estate sales license, but preferred the consistent work hours of civil service. She retired from Civil Service in 1979 having earned numerous Outstanding and Sustained Outstanding Service awards.Muriel cherished her independence and managed her affairs until the end, including details for her memorial service. Distant lands and interesting places fascinated her, and her own travels to many parts of the world as well as the travels of her family were the source of great pleasure. She remained interested in current events and watched the news until her final day. The welfare of her children was her deepest concern. Muriel loved family. Her most enjoyable times included those energetic conversations around the dinner table. She rejoiced in every moment shared with her children, grandchildren and little great-grandchildren. Peace in this world was her most diligent prayer.The family commends the work of the Franciscan Hospice program and extends its heartfelt thanks for the loving care of the staff who attended Muriel. There will be a viewing on Mon. Dec. 16, 2002 at Mt. View Funeral Home from 12-9 PM. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday Dec. 17, 2002 at Mt. View Garden Chapel.
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