Stacey Matt Sellin

Stacey Matt Sellin passed away on September 30, 2024, surrounded by his family. A contrarian (and proud of it), his wry sense of humor and genuine curiosity about the world attracted many to his company. Stacey was born on July 19, 1953 in Detroit, Michigan to Alfred Jack Sellin and Mary (Seltzer) Sellin. He joked that he emerged wearing a suit and tie. Stacey grew up with siblings Scott, Audrey, and Robin, as well as a large group of friends that he maintained throughout his life. In school, he discovered a love of math, science, and music; he fondly remembered his years playing trumpet and trombone in band. Stacey graduated from Henry Ford High School in 1971 and was Pre-med at the University of Michigan until he decided to move to Los Angeles to live with his Aunt Ann and Uncle Phil.

The move west was fortuitous, because in 1974, Stacey met the love of his life, Barbara Thompson. They were engaged seven days after their first date, and remained devoted to each other through 46 years of marriage. Stacey served briefly in the U.S. Navy; upon discharge in 1976, he and Barbie moved to Santa Clara County and he began his career as an electrical engineer. They made their home in Los Gatos, where they raised their children and turned their house into a de-facto gathering place for an expansive social circle. Stacey was deeply devoted to his family-a sturdy, supportive presence, but also a jokester who invented silly games for his kids. His love of cooking, history, and travel opened not only his life but the lives of those fortunate enough to be swept along in his enthusiastic wake.

Stacey was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, and his daughter, Shelby; he is survived by his children, Chelsea and Adam, as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, Aunt Ann, and an untold number of friends. Internment at Los Gatos Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Parkinson's Foundation. The link is: https://www.parkinson.org/

Published in Los Gatan · October 4, 2024