Joseph J. Selewski

Joseph J. Selewski, a man of profound loyalty, integrity, and devotion, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025. He lived a life defined by hard work, faith, and an unwavering love for his family. On October 1, 2025, Joe and the love of his life, Judith L. (McKinley) Selewski, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary, a beautiful testament to a lifetime of shared partnership and enduring love. A proud veteran, Joe honorably served his country in the United States Army. His Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life; he was a founding member of St. Malachy Catholic Church in Warren, Michigan, helping to establish the parish in the early 1960s. In later years, he was a devoted parishioner of St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Utica, where he remained active until his passing. Professionally, Joe dedicated nearly 47 years to General Motors, embodying the spirit of American industry. Beginning his career in the drafting room, he rose to the executive level within the Market Research group, where his expertise contributed to the launch of iconic vehicles, including the GMC Hummer and the Denali lineup. Beyond his career, Joe had a lifelong passion for cars, home improvement projects, and traveling. Affectionately known as Chuck, Joe was happiest when surrounded by his family. Whether spending weekends at Houghton Lake, hosting summer pool parties, or manning the grill at backyard barbecues, he was the heart of every gathering. He traveled the world with his wife and family but found just as much joy at home, never missing milestones in the lives of his grandchildren-from sporting events and recitals to graduations, weddings, and baptisms. Joe loved to dance, was a master of playful teasing, and possessed a laugh that could light up any room. He also had a legendary sweet tooth, and his grandchildren will forever cherish fond memories of his secret "stash" of treats. Of all the days in the year, Christmas Eve was his favorite, as he delighted in spoiling his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Above all his professional achievements, Joe's greatest pride was the family he and Judith built. He is survived by his beloved wife, Judith, and their five children, twelve grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren: James (Christine) Selewski, parents of Jenna (Steven) McGovern and Zachary Selewski, and grandparents to Thomas and Lucy McGovern; Jeffrey (Judith) Selewski, parents of Jordan (Tim) Zabawa, Jared (Leah) Selewski, and Jaclyn (Johnathan) Peters, and grandparents to Kayleigh, McKinley, and Lainey Zabawa, Yvonne Selewski, and Anastastia Peters; Joseph (Lisa) Selewski, parents of Madison (Michael) Kane; Jason (Danielle) Selewski, parents of Andrew and Gabriella Selewski; and Julie (John) Rzepecki, parents of Nicholas (Lindsay) Trombley, Joshua (Lindsey) Trombley, and Julianna (Cam) Juskevics, and grandparents to Hudson Trombley. Joe was also a cherished brother-in-law to Bill and Mary Ann Muir, and Matthew McKinley and Linda Hagood. He is additionally survived by his "special family," who held a treasured place in his heart: Jeff and Darlene Mazur, Nicole Mazur, Jason and Kaila Byers and their children Charlie and Beckham, and Jeremy and Erica Byers and their daughter Elaina. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, John Paul and Rose Elizabeth Selewski; his brother, Ted (Mary) Selewski; his sisters, Rita Schley and Rose Selewski; and his parents-in-law, James and Mary McKinley. Joe's life was a masterclass in dedication-to his craft, his community, and most importantly, to those he loved. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him. A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 44633 Utica Road, Utica, Michigan 48317. A luncheon will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Da Francesco's Ristorante, 49521 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, Michigan 48317.

Joseph J. Selewski

October 22, 1938 - December 18, 2025