Sherri Lynn Selby
Sherri was predeceased by both of her parents, Joseph and Marcia Selby, as well as by her stepfather Pete Twarowski. She is survived by her loving husband, Patrick, her sister Cathy (Curtis), and her brother, Michael. Sherri will be greatly missed by her niece, Danika, and by her nephews Grayson, Simon, and Daniel, as well as by her extended family and step-family.
Sherri was born with cystic fibrosis (CF), a debilitating genetic disorder that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Sherri grew up to be loving, funny, and compassionate young woman with a courageous spirit and a strong will, despite needing constant support and medication to overcome the symptoms of CF. She studied biology and biochemistry in university earning many accolades, including the Terry Fox Gold Medal (1988) for demonstration of personal qualities of courage in adversity and dedication to society. She was a teacher, a scholar, and a good friend to so many. In 2000, Sherri underwent a double lung transplant that transformed her life. She continued with studies, travel, her love of animals (especially her beloved cats), and adventure in the great outdoors. Hiking, camping, and gardening were all very special to her. Throughout her life, Sherri demonstrated her deep care for others and was always concerned for their well-being over her own. She will be deeply and sorely missed by all who knew her.
She was the strongerst person I had the privilege of knowing. Miss her.
Sherri and Patrick were like family to me during my PhD days in Edmonton. She is sorely missed.
Sherri was the most caring person I had ever met in my life. Miss her.
I feel most lost by hearing a sad news on decease of Sherry Selby. Sherry was one of my first colleagues in Canada back to more than thirty years ago. We were all helped by and grateful to her diligent work. I admired so much her strong will to stand her sickness as well as dedication by Patrick.
I had little chance to see her after my move back to Japan but been hearing about her life time by time. The news on success of her lung transplantation and great change of her life made me so glad and happy.
She completed most brave and glorious life everybody should applause with the highest respect.
She taught to me read, which was the beginning of wisdom; more importantly she taught me compassion, which is wisdom’s end. I miss my big sister so very much. I was lucky she is in my life for so long.
Sherri & Patrick – an amazing young couple.
Their love for each other, and giving of themselves to help others, is a pattern we all can learn from.
Sherri and Patrick – an amazing young couple!
Their love for each other, their caring and giving of themselves to help others, is something we can all emulate.
She will be deeply missed!
Sherri was the bravest and strongest woman I knew…her presence will be missed. Love Cousin Donna
Sherri emotionally supported me during my own difficult time despite she was in a difficult place herself. She was always thinking of other people’s wellbeing. I do miss my texting buddy – the funny cartoons, the bad memes, her putting up with my bad sense of humor, our ups and downs. Good-bye my good friend of 40yrs.
“When I die
I soar with angels
And when I die to the Angels,
What I shall become
You cannot imagine.”
Sherri has always placed the needs of others ahead of herself, even while managing her health challenges. I will always remember her as extremely intelligent, generous, and having a sharp sense of humour. And yes, she was pretty good at tennis too.
Sherri, you will always be remembered as a great friend, you have my deepest respect, and you will be sadly missed. Patrick, you are also in my prayers at this most difficult time.
My condolences. May God receive her life as a prayer, may God hears yours. So inspiring person, she is kind a hero for our children’s sake (perseverance, surpassing ourselves over our difficulties, hope).
Sherri made a difference in so many lives and we were blessed that she was a part of our family. Sherri had a kind and gentle spirit. She will always be missed and never forgotten. Patrick, you always took such great care of her and was always by her side. “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.”
It is with great sadness & deepest sympathies that I send you our condolences. Sherri was a great friend to me through my school years and my life was changed for knowing her.
So very sad to hear Sherri has passed away. I grew up with Sherri and lived right behind her in Coquitlam. When the family moved to Cranbrook I spent time in Cranbrook one summer after Sherri had back surgery. Spent many visits with Sherri during treatments for her C.F. She was always a positive strong person going through her many health challenges. I admired her for her strength. Over the years we lost contact but always had updates through our moms exchange of Christmas card letters. After hearing of her Moms passing I tried to find a contact for Sherri with no success. This brings such sadness in not reaching her but will always treasure our friendship of many years ago. My heartfelt condolences to Patrick and all the family. Sincerely, Lisa Caminiti-McClelland. Tappen, BC.