Guilderland - On April 20, 2026, Dennis Henry Selzner passed away, surrounded by family and love, after bravely facing a brief illness.

Dennis was born on January 29, 1949, on Long Island, New York, to Henry and Eleanor Selzner. He grew up in North Bellmore with his parents and his younger brother, Thomas John.

In 1967, Dennis moved to Oneonta to attend the State University College at Oneonta (SUCO) and built a lifelong connection to the town he would call home for more than 50 years. He earned his bachelor’s degree from SUCO and continued his studies in a graduate program at SUNY Albany.

It was at SUCO that he met his wife, Janice Angela Reidy. They were married on September 18, 1971. Together, they built a life on a country property along the same road as the college—a dream come true for them both. They raised two daughters, Ryan Angela and Rebecca Rose, creating a childhood rich with love and tradition: swimming in their pond, games of Wiffle ball, catching fireflies, campfires, and joyful family holiday celebrations filled with laughter.

Dennis began his professional career as a Dorm Director at SUCO and later served as Director of Housing. In 1988, he joined New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) as a Labor Relations Specialist, representing the academic and professional staff at four State University of New York campuses on behalf of United University Professions (UUP).

In 1998, Dennis was faced with the sudden loss of his wife Janice. He raised their two daughters with strength, love, and unwavering support. Together, they forged a path forward rooted in Janice’s memory, forming an unbreakable bond. He guided his daughters through high school, college, and into their careers, providing the foundation for them to build families of their own.

While working at NYSUT, Dennis met Maureen Seidel, whom he later married. Their 19 years together were marked by deep friendship, loyalty, and love and were a true gift to both of them and their families.

Dennis retired from NYSUT in September 2010 after 24 years of service, dedicating himself fully to his cherished role as “GDad” to his granddaughters, Ella Rose and Grace Angela. He delighted in every birthday, holiday, dance recital, and sporting event, and was immensely prod of the young women they were becoming.

Dennis found joy in life’s simple pleasures: the beauty of nature, warm weather, fresh seafood on family beach vacations, vodka gimlets, a cozy fire, good tunes, and, above all, a cup of hot black coffee. He was an avid fan of the New York Mets and New York Rangers. He loved dogs and was fortunate to share his life with many, especially his loyal companion, Remy, who will miss him dearly.

He believed deeply in the value of education and was a steadfast advocate for those in need. His fierce representation on behalf of UUP members was the capstone of his union activism. He influenced a generation of UUP activists, union members and staff colleagues in the true meaning of “dignify, empower and support” workers in their struggle to become equal partners with their employers. He supported civil and equal rights and believed in the importance of active participation in and protection of democracy.

Above all, Dennis will be remembered as a warm and loving man who placed family, tradition, relationships, and love at the center of his life.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Maureen Seidel; his daughters, Ryan Selzner (Wade) and Rebecca Sullivan (Daniel); his granddaughters, Ella and Grace; his brother, Tom Selzner (Donna); and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Henry; his mother, Eleanor; and his wife, Janice.

Friends and family may call at Clair S. Bartholomew & Sons, Inc. in Bellmore, NY, on Monday, April 27, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. All are invited to celebrate Dennis’ life and extend their love and support to his family on Saturday, May 9, at Morris Hall at SUNY Oneonta from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Donations in Dennis’ memory may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center (www.splcenter.org) or the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (www.nationalmssociety.org).