Obituary of Gregory Dale Selig

Gregory “Greg” Dale Selig, son of Howard Theodore (Ted) and Phyllis Selig, made his grand entrance into the world on November 12, 1949. True to his headstrong spirit, he made his final exit - on his own terms, on April 17, 2025.

Greg grew up in Wilmot, Nova Scotia, and graduated from Middleton High School. He went on to teacher’s college in Truro, which led him from Caledonia to New Germany. Once settled in the area, Greg and his first wife built a house and turned it into a home for daughters Angela, Nicole, Shauna, and Michaela — whom he always referred to as his “greatest accomplishments.”

In 1973, Greg began teaching at New Germany Rural High School (NGRHS), where he spent the remainder of his 30+ year career. Known as “Mr. Selig” to hundreds if not thousands of students, he made an indelible mark on his community. Greg was more than a teacher — he was a mentor, cheerleader, and an unwavering source of encouragement.

On his 70th birthday, Greg married Janis Power, his longtime partner and love. He was a devoted caregiver and greatest supporter in her running and cycling adventures. He lovingly prepped meals, travelled to races, and cheered her on, at every turn, including two Boston Marathons.

Greg’s commitment to the community was unmatched. Over time, he became known as the unofficial Mayor and Ambassador of New Germany, embracing newcomers and supporting many families and causes close to his heart. He warmly welcomed everyone to New Germany and immediately made them feel at home and part of the community.

Greg is survived by his wife, Janis Power; daughters, Angela (Jeremy Vaughan), Nicole (Shane Hachey), Shauna (Mark Rose), and Michaela (Joel CôtéSelig); stepdaughters, Jessica (Chris Conrad) and Caitlin (Shayne Crouse); brothers, Gary (Laura Selig) and Howard (Wendy Rodda); 15 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, infant twin brothers Donald and David, and sister, Gayle Mattice.

The family sends a special thank you to the staff on the medical units at South Shore Regional Hospital, the wonderful nurses at VON, the Palliative Care team and Greg's Nurse Practitioner, Jennifer Riis.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, April 22, 2025, in Sweeny’s Funeral Home, 4895 Highway 10, New Germany. A celebration of Greg's life will be held 1 p.m., Wednesday, April 23, 2025 in Barss Corner Baptist Church, Barss Corner, with a reception to follow at the Barss Corner Community Hall.

Greg was looking forward to summer and his gardens; we encourage you to wear colour and celebrate the brightness he brought to your life.

In lieu of flowers, Greg asks that you perform an act of kindness, give someone a hug, or make a donation to a local charity. He always tried to see the good in everyone and everything. One of his favourite sayings was, “Well, if that’s the worst thing that happens today, it’s still been a good day.”