Selma J Ulbrich

March 14, 1931 – December 10, 2024

Selma Ulbrich, a devoted teacher, cherished wife, inspiring grandmother, and beloved aunt, peacefully passed away in Henderson, Nevada, six months to the day after the passing of her second husband, Adolf Ulbrich. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and service to others, as well as many treasured memories shared with family, friends, and former students.

Born on March 14, 1931, in the small Mennonite community of Meade, Kansas, Selma grew up on a pioneering dairy and wheat farm established by her parents, John L. and Mary (Reimer) Classen. The youngest of six children, Selma was shaped by the values of hard work and faith that defined her upbringing. She cultivated a love of learning and an unshakable resilience that inspired all who knew her.

In 1945, Selma and her parents moved to Hillsboro, Kansas, where she attended Hillsboro High School (1946-1950) and Tabor College (1950-1955). A note in her college yearbook beautifully captured her character: “Spry and willing to serve.” These qualities propelled her to earn a Master’s degree from Emporia State Teachers College, after which she began her lifelong passion for teaching. Her career started in a small elementary school in Canton, Kansas, and eventually took her west to Henderson, Nevada, where she lived the rest of her life and served her community as a dedicated educator.

Selma’s second career began when she married Adolf Ulbrich. Together, they owned and operated Chef Adolf’s Bakery in Palm Springs, California, for many years. Selma brought her energy, organizational talents, and warm personality to their thriving business, which was loved by locals and visitors alike. Later, the couple returned to Henderson, Nevada, where they enjoyed their golden years surrounded by friends and family.

Selma’s life was marked by love, resilience, and an adventurous spirit. Though she did not have children of her own, she poured her heart into her 12 nieces and nephews, earning the affectionate title of “favorite Aunt.” She also adored her two stepdaughters and five grandchildren, who were an important part of her life.

Selma married twice and found happiness in both unions. She shared nine years with her first husband, A.E. McKimmey (d. 1989), and later married Adolf Ulbrich, with whom she spent 33 cherished years. Their marriage, built on love and companionship, exemplified the joy of shared lives.

Family longevity was a hallmark of the Classen household, and Selma followed in that tradition. Her father lived to age 91, her brothers to 92 and 90, and her sister to 89. Her life was a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and community.

Honoring her Mennonite upbringing and final wishes, a peaceful ceremony will be held at the interment of her ashes at Palm Mortuary in Henderson, Nevada, on March 27, 2025, at 1 p.m. Friends and family are welcome to attend as they celebrate Selma’s remarkable life and legacy.

Selma will be remembered for her commitment to education, her entrepreneurial spirit, her generosity, and her ability to make everyone feel seen and loved. She enriched countless lives and leaves behind her stepdaughter Karen, five grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and all who were fortunate to know her.

We celebrate Selma’s vibrant life, comforted by the knowledge that her spirit of service, love, and kindness continues to inspire us all. Her steadfast faith and warm smile will never be forgotten.