Iris Tobin Selig, of Damariscotta, passed away on Feb. 1, 2019. Iris was just two months shy of her 71st birthday when she succumbed to multiple myeloma, which she courageously dealt with for about four years.
Iris was preceded in death by her husband of more than 35 years, Arthur (Bud) Selig in 2011. She missed him immensely. She also was predeceased by both her parents. Iris adored her dogs: Mike-Mike, Lulu and Bert, her Airedale terriers, all of whom were known around town; Tobey, a soft-coated Wheaton Terrier; and her last dog, Iggy, a small senior terrier rescue.
Iris was a complicated, humble, kind person. She was very intelligent, sensitive, thoughtful, strong, creative, and had a wonderful sense of humor mixed in with a bit of impish fun. She was not afraid to try new adventures. She also was very generous to her friends, willing to give comfort and support even when she was in great pain herself. Her kindness and generosity will be missed.
In their younger years, Iris and Bud spent time living in a kibbutz in Israel. They also lived in the Boston area for many years, eventually moving to Damariscotta.
Iris earned a bachelor’s degree from Boston University, a master’s degree from Brandeis University in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies, and a master’s degree in counseling from Beacon College. She was a many-talented person. For a number of years Iris was on the professional staff of Women, Work, and Community, helping women learn new skills, including how to be self-employed and to gain confidence in themselves. She had her own psychological counseling practice for many years. In addition, Iris taught psychology and sociology courses at Central Maine Community College. As an adjunct instructor there, she challenged her students to do their own original thinking. She enjoyed cooking and even taught an adult education course on making soups. She also taught an adult ed course in writing.
Iris leaves behind her brother and sister-in-law, Arthur and Sandra Tobin; her stepson, Daniel Selig; stepdaughter-in-law, Sarah Spademan; their child Gabriel; as well as cousins and friends. She also leaves behind her special friend and partner, Robert Hains, with whom she found happiness and comfort during her last years.
A special celebration of Iris and her life will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 21 at 1 p.m. at her house, 532 Egypt Road in Damariscotta.
