Cover photo for Mark Ernest Louis Sellenriek's Obituary
Mark Ernest Louis Sellenriek Profile Photo
Mark

Mark Ernest Louis Sellenriek

d. January 14, 2021

On Thursday, January 14, 2021, Mark Sellenriek, loving husband and father of four children, passed away from ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). Mark was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to Glenn Sellenriek and Ruth (Stemme) Sellenriek. Both proud parents preceded Mark in death. Mark was a graduate of Parkway Central High School, St. Louis, Missouri. He earned his many degrees as an educator and administrator at Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri. He was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. Mark was a talented artist and shared those gifts as a high school art teacher with students at Nixa Schools over several years prior to moving into leadership roles. During his time at the high school, he also coached track, cross country, and football. He was the principal at Nixa Junior High for 14 years; his affinity for supporting adolescents brought him great joy, as well as the countless staff members he mentored and served over the years. Mark was also the Director of SCORE, continuing his legacy of supporting students with the greatest life challenges, prior to becoming the District Director of Communication and Special Programs. He was a member of the Missouri Department of Education Administrator Certification Panel, Ozark Technical Community College Citizens Advisory Committee, and a graduate-level Adjunct Professor for Educational Administration at Lindenwood University and William Woods University. Mark's legacy as an educator spanned 34 years and many of the initiatives and programs he launched are still in existence today. He leaves behind generations of students and families he supported, as well as countless colleagues and friends. Everywhere Mark traveled, in and outside of the community and state, he frequently crossed paths with a former staff member, colleague, student, or parent who had adoring comments and funny stories to share regarding their experiences together. Mark was an active community servant, as well. He served in a variety of leadership and civic roles including Chairman, Christian County Heart Association; President, Christian County Ambulance District; President, Nixa Lions Club; Board of Directors, Nixa Optimist Club; and Board of Directors and Officer in Nixa Community Foundation. His leadership and experience in these roles made him a highly sought-after contributor to countless other programs in his and surrounding communities. Beyond Mark's passion for art, he was an avid outdoor sportsman and enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time on any body of water - lakes, rivers, or oceans. He was an avid cook and anyone who enjoyed his famous fudge and other recipes could attest to that. He was known for his generosity, kind and compassionate spirit, quick wit, laughter, and ability to be the calm in the storm. His favorite saying was, "I am an island", but he lived his life with many on his island who reaped the blessing of knowing him. Mark's family was his most treasured joy and accomplishment, what "gave his life meaning" as he would say. He was married to loving wife Danielle (Creek) Sellenriek and was a father to son Sam and daughter Lilly, of the home; son Ben (Nixa); son Nathan and his wife Jennifer, and adorable grandsons Noa and Kai (Hawaii); brother to sisters Patti and husband Don, and sister Suzi; family to nephews and close cousins, along with numerous friends. We were so blessed to have Mark to share in our memories and adventures, to guide us and lead us, and find peace at such a difficult time that he lives always in our hearts. Join us in raising a glass to Mark and his life well-lived. A private family event will be planned for a later date, per Mark's wishes. Arrangements and care of Mark is under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa,
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