Charles Selander

Charles Melvin Selander, known affectionately as Chuck, passed away on September 10, 2024, at the age of 81 in Maplewood, Minnesota. Born on August 27, 1943, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Chuck led a life marked by dedication to service and family.

During his senior year of high school, he attended the Billy Graham Crusade. There, for the first time, he recognized his need for a Savior, and received Jesus Christ as Lord. That relationship with Christ, and desire to do His will, informed all his decisions for the rest of his life.

Chuck graduated from Johnson High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Minnesota, where he majored in Forest Land Management, graduating in 1966. His commitment to making a positive impact on the world was evident early on when, immediately after college, he and his wife, Betty, joined the Peace Corps. They were assigned to a reforestation project in Chile, dedicating two years to environmental restoration.

Following their time in the Peace Corps, Chuck's life of service continued as he was drafted into the Army in 1968. He served bravely for two years, stationed in the demilitarized zone in Korea, where he fulfilled his duties with distinction.

Returning from military service in 1970, Chuck began a significant chapter of his career with the US Forest Service. For approximately 13 years, he worked primarily in forestry, contributing to the preservation and management of the nation's forest resources.

The call to mission work was a constant in Chuck's life; he and his family moved to Mexico City to serve as church planters, dedicating four years in the capital and two additional years in Monterrey. Upon returning to the United States, Chuck and his family committed themselves to ministry among the Spanish-speaking communities in northern Minnesota, where they served for 25 years until his retirement.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Betty; their children Cari (Brian), Dan (Trista), and Joe; grandchildren Zach (Hope), Josh, Drew, Carter, Connor, and Soren; his sister, Leanne (Dave) Beety; and sister-in-law, Judy Selander.

A visitation and service to honor Chuck's life will be held at Ambassador Baptist Church, located at 3720 Lexington Ave N, Shoreview, MN 55126. The visitation will begin at 10 am, followed by the service at 11 am. A luncheon will follow where family and friends can share memories and celebrate Chuck's life. A private interment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Chuck's legacy of service, both at home and abroad, and his deep commitment to his family and faith will be dearly remembered and sorely missed.

His life verse was Proverbs 16:9
"In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord directs his steps."