Bernd J. Selig

Bernd J. Selig, devoted husband, father and grandfather, distinguished mechanical engineer, business and community leader, passed away March 5, 2026. Born September 16, 1935, in Miltenberg, Germany, Bernie immigrated to America, where he built a life of remarkable achievement. Bernie’s youth was spent in Brooklyn, NY, where he worked his way through college, earning a degree in engineering and was elected to Sigma Xi, an honorary research society. Brooklyn is also where he met his loving wife Lea, of nearly 68 years. He continued on to earn a master’s degree at Union College in Schenectady, NY, where he started his beautiful family.Eventually, he moved his family of four to West Hartford, CT, where he made wonderful lifelong friends. He founded the Nuclear Services Division at Combustion Engineering, growing the division into a $40 million annual enterprise that remains the foundation of ABB CE Nuclear today. He received the company’s Nuclear Division outstanding achievement award in 1978 and led a complex nuclear facility recovery program in 1984. At Hartford Steam Boiler and Insurance Company, he led strategic acquisitions and elevated the company’s technical capabilities. He also served as chairman of the Hartford chapter of ASME and was elected to ASME’s Board of Research and Technology Development. He also helped found the Connecticut Technology Council, serving as vice president and treasurer.Bernie served his community in a personal way as president of Beth El Temple, where he also found much joy singing in the choir. His voice led him to Simsbury Light Opera Company, where he performed in eight Gilbert and Sullivan productions.He is survived by his wife, Lea Selig; son Jeff Selig and wife Nancy, and their children Gillian and Nathan; daughter Stephanie Carroll and husband Schuyler, and their sons Alec and Craig Carroll.Bernie was generous and kind. His legacy will live on in the people he encouraged, the community he strengthened and the wonderful family and friends that he leaves behind.Funeral services will be held on Sunday, March 8, 2026, Beth El Temple, West Hartford, at 12:30pm. Shiva will be observed at the Selig home, Monday – Thursday from 2pm-4pm and 7pm-9pm.Donations in Bernie’s memory may be made to The Music Fund at Beth El Temple, Mazon, or a charity of your choice.