Obituary of Robert G. Sellers

Robert G. Sellers, JR passed away peacefully at home on Thursday October 28, 2010 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Chambersburg, PA on January 8, 1952, Bob moved to California in 1976 to attend Stanford University. While an undergraduate he sang with The Mendicants, played tournament Frisbee, and did gymnastics. While obtaining his Masters in marine biology he worked at Hopkins Marine Station in Pacific Grove, CA. For about fifteen years, Bob was a lab researcher at Stanford Medical Center (SUMC) and in 2007 became lab manager for the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) at UCSC doing work in molecular genetics. He was an accomplished scuba diver who traveled all over the world diving and photographing marine life. As a founding member of the Fungus Federation of SC, he was a wild mushroom expert, occasionally identifying specimens for the hospital emergency room and hiking with local forays. He loved to cook and thousands of people have sampled his candy cap cookies and wild mushroom soups at the annual Fungus Fair. Bob was an avid organic gardener, master composter and was especially proud of his conservation efforts. As a wine and beer maker he won numerous awards at the Santa Cruz County Fair. He loved playing golf and got a hole in one at Delaveaga Golf Course. Bob also enjoyed making African-style drums and shekeres and played for several African dance classes in SC for about ten years. He had many good friends and far-reaching circles through his diverse activities and was cherished by all who enjoyed these passions with him. He inspired a degree of admiration for his knowledge and understanding of the things that interested him. Surviving relatives are sister Robin Sellers, his brother William Sellers, sister-in-law Kris and nephew Sharkey, all living in Chambersburg, PA. Bob was affectionately known as "Bobba-G" and his friends and family will miss him dearly. There will be a memorial tribute on Saturday, November 20 from 2-4pm at the Scandinavian Cultural Center (Viking Hall) 240 Plymouth Street, Santa Cruz . In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to HOSPICE of Santa Cruz, (831)-430-3000.