Robert Sell II

Robert Milton Sell II (Bob II), a compassionate soul whose warmth and joy touched everyone he met, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, surrounded by family. His life was filled with kindness, laughter, and an enduring love for the simple pleasures that made each day brighter.

Bob II was born on April 23, 1943, in Dayton, Ohio to Robert Milton Sell and Dorothy Jane (Hunt) Sell who both preceded him in death. He never thought of himself as a student, yet his life surprised him in many ways. With humility and a sense of wonder, he earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree and came within a dissertation of completing his doctorate. Bob II would tell you he knew God was real, because there was no way he could have endured and overcome the hardest moments of his life without Him walking beside him.

A man of many passions, Bob II found deep joy in music and dancing. His vast collection of CDs was a source of pride, and he often joked about his disappointment when his new car came without a CD player. Musical theater, live performances, and a well-spun record filled his home with energy, rhythm, and happiness.

An adventurer at heart, Bob II cherished being outdoors. He loved sailing with friends and family, canoeing with his siblings, going to the races, walking with his dog in the woods and camping under the stars. Traveling with his wife brought him immense joy, and together they built memories that will be cherished forever, especially their numerous trips to Arizona and Wyoming.

A devoted sports fan, Bob II rarely missed a Green Bay Packers game and took great pride in cheering on “his team” as an enthusiastic stock owner. When he wasn’t watching sports, you might find him on the golf course—or with a book in hand. He was a voracious reader who loved returning to favorite stories, always discovering new meaning within their pages.

Professionally, Bob II served as a substance abuse counselor and later he retired as a school counselor, offering comfort and guidance to those who sought his help. His compassion, however, extended far beyond his office walls. Friends, family members, and even strangers often found themselves sharing their stories with him, drawn in by his genuine interest and gentle wisdom. He listened without judgment, and many left his presence feeling lighter and more hopeful.

Bob II will be deeply missed by his wife, Patricia; his children, Colleen (Dale) Dubey, Amy (Kris) Bartling, Jennifer (Scott Arnold) Sell, Bob (Kayc) Sell, and Jonathan Sell; his devoted siblings (who were not just family—they were his best friends); his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his nieces and nephews who cherished their Uncle Bob; and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His kindness, humor, and boundless heart will continue to inspire those he loved and guided throughout his life.

In his memory, may we all find time to listen a little more closely, dance a little more often, and cherish the people who make life’s journey so meaningful.

A memorial mass will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlevoix. Visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. until mass begins at 1:00. A Celebration of Life is also being planned for later in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers please consider memorial donations to the Cooper Center for Creative Arts 1150 N. 3rd Street, Laramie, WY, 82072 or at: arkcreativearts.org. The Cooper Center was especially meaningful to him, as he and Patricia spent many years attending performances that celebrated limitless creative expression and challenged perceptions of artists with disabilities. Memorial donations can also be made to BASES (Bay Area Substance Education Services) at 101 M-66, Charlevoix, MI 49720 which, according to the Executive Director, “without Bob Sell working with a 17 year old Scott Kelly there would never have been a BASES.”

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com