John Joseph Selzer

John Joseph Selzer, age 76, of Indianapolis, peacefully passed away on Friday, December 22, 2023. Born on January 17, 1947, in Indianapolis, Indiana, John's journey was marked by service, dedication, and a profound love for both his family and pets.

A proud graduate of Scecina High School, Class of 1966, John embarked on a selfless journey of service to his country during the Vietnam War, bravely serving in the Army from 1966 to 1968.

In 1968, he united in marriage with his beloved wife, Janice Alerding Selzer, and together they shared over 55 years of love, laughter, and countless memories.

For 37 years, John lent his skills as a supervisor in the sheet metal department at Eli Lilly and Company before retiring in 2007. A true handyman, he possessed a remarkable ability to mend and craft, spending countless hours in what he affectionately called "Papaw’s Toy Shoppe."

John was a devoted animal lover, rescuing and adopting several dogs and cats who became cherished members of his family.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert, and Louise Ann Sauter Selzer, and his sisters Betty Akers, Sharon Dakin, and Bobbi Stephey.

John's enduring legacy lives on through his wife, Janice, his children Jeff (Bobbi) Selzer and Jennifer (Eric) McElhaney, his sister Ann Davis, and his grandchildren Kayla, Evan, and Kerri. He is also fondly remembered by his nephews, Brad and Scott Davis, his niece Susan Davis, and several other nieces and nephews.

A celebration of John’s life will be held Sunday, April 21, 2024, at the family home from 1;00 PM to 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials in John’s name be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (https://t2t.org/), Hope Academy (https://www.hopeacademyrhs.org/), or Indianapolis Animal Care Services (https://www.indy.gov/agency/animal-care-services).

Services are entrusted to O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227. 

Please visit www.OrileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.