From the Oregonian
John I. Sell of Portland passed away Aug. 20, 2014, at the age of 102, a day which also marked the 75th wedding anniversary to his dear wife, Margaret, now 98 years of age. He was born Nov. 30, 1911, in Milwaukee, Wis, the son of John M. and Rose Sell. John's characteristic strength and fortitude was developed at an early age, having lost both his parents in his teenage years. Event as a boy, his employers noted his intelligence and abilities and served as mentors to help him survive as a young, independent man.
John's banking career began in 1930, whn he was hired as a messenger boy for First Wisconsin National Bank. He saved his money and in 1936, bought a trusty Chevy for $509. Loaded down with National Geographics and canned beans, he and a buddy headed west. It was a grand an perilous journey as they dealt with flat tires, brakes giving out on mountain curves, sleeping in a tent and an empty stomach. His adventurous spirit delighted in The Black Hills, Yellowstone, the Rocky Mountains and finally the Columbia River. Portland was his destination. He arrived on a Saturday and had a job on Monday, having been hired on the spot by First National Bank of Portland, which was a good thing because he had only $1.75 in his pocket. John was later transferred to The Dalles branch where he met the prettiest girl in town, Margaret Maynard, who also had the honor of being the first female teller in the bank. They married in 1939.
While living in The Dalles, John was elected to the State House as a representative for Wasco County. He was also employees as office manager for Seufert Bros., a cannery of salmon, fruit, and vegetables, located near Celilo Falls. Upon returning to the bank, he was appointed as manager of First National's Salem branch. He and Margaret embraced Salem's social life and had many happy times at Illahe Hills country Club. In 1969, he returned to Portland and served as the bank's representative to the Oregon State Legislature.
John served as president of Oregon Tax Research, the Salem Chamber of Commerce and as a board member of The Oregon Symphony. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hiker and photographer in his beloved mountains in the Pacific Northwest as well as Switzerland. John was honored for his contributions to the Myrtle Falls Bridge construction on Mt. Rainier. He continued to hike on Mt. Hood while well into his late 80s and enjoyed golf, bridge, historical literature, vegetable gardening, hot fudge sundaes, and Margaret's huckleberry pies. Ever curious, he and Margaret traveled throughout the world. He was a member of the University Club, the Mazamas, and The Dalles Elks Lodge.
John was a principled and honest man, and full of love for his family. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; daughter Joan (John) Schindelar; son, Randy (Tamara); grandchildren, Jason and Scott (Adrienne); and great-grandchildren, Blake and Micah.
The family would like to thank The Courtyard at Mt. Tabor Assisted Living for exemplary care.
Remembrances may be directed to the Mazamas and the University Club of Portland Foundation.
The family will honor his life with a private service.
