Benjamin Burke Selvitelle III's Obituary
Benjamin Burke Selvitelle III, “Benny”, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife, son, and daughter. He was 75.
Born in Cherry Point, North Carolina, Benny lived a life marked by purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to growth—both in himself and in those around him. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he also met the love of his life, Marilyn. The two were married for 52 years, sharing a bond rooted in love, laughter, and mutual respect. Benny later earned his master’s degree from the University of Southern California. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years, where he was not only a decorated Officer, but also a mentor and leader to countless young Marines.
Following his Marine Corps career, he went on to direct projects for EDS, NASA, NATO, and Marine Corps Base Hawaii. After retirement, Benny taught math to Marines, volunteered as a CASA social worker, and became a chess master.
Throughout his life, he enjoyed tennis, racquetball, golf, white water rafting, and anything that challenged or excited him. But it was the ocean that truly called to him—surfing was his lifelong passion. From his early years riding waves in Hawaiʻi to Saturday morning surf sessions with his daughter, Benny found peace, freedom, and joy in the surf.
He lived life on his own terms, always striving to be better, always questioning, always learning. A sharp wit and lust for life were his trademarks. Never a dull moment at “Bennyville”!
Benny is survived by his wife Marilyn Selvitelle; his children, Heather Selvitelle and Marc Selvitelle; and his grandchildren, Maximus Kawaiaea and Paityn Selvitelle. A celebration of Benny’s life will be held in the near future.
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