Rexford L. Selbe, 91, of Spearfish, passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2013 at the David M. Dorsett Healthcare Center in Spearfish.

He was born on January 17, 1922 on a farm near Phillipsburg, Kansas. When he was 13, his family moved to Longmont, Colorado where he graduated from high school with the class of 1939.

He then attended Colorado State University until the outbreak of World War II at which time he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force. After serving in the Caribbean Theater for one year as an aerial radio operator on anti-sub patrol, he returned to the States to enter the Aviation Cadet Program. After graduation, he served as a pilot instructor before going overseas. He flew combat missions with the Troop Carrier Command both out of England and France.

Upon returning to the States following the war, he completed work for a degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Colorado. He later completed courses in Business Administration at the University of Chicago and Harvard University.
Most of his career was involved with Research and Development work for USG Corporation. Following his retirement from that company, he continued in consulting engineering work. He was involved with many technical committees nationwide.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Selbe; daughters, Susan Selbe and Cynthia Selbe; son, Scott Selbe; step-children, Robert Newby and Kathie Newby; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be at 10:30 A.M. on November 18, 2013 at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, with military honors provided by the Spearfish Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established to the Spearfish Senior Center.

Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapels and Crematory Service of Spearfish.