Dr. Charles Seleen passed away in the Respite House on September 19, 2022, having lived a purposeful life of service to his patients, his profession, his community and his family.
Dr. Seleen cared for the dental health of three generations of families as dentist and director of Vermont Dental Care, with offices in Winooski and Barre. He pioneered Expanded Function Dental Auxiliaries, supported school-based dental services, advocated for the state Tooth Fairy Program and staunchly defended Medicaid provisions for children’s dental care. He served on numerous boards and committees related to health care in Vermont and was a trusted resource for legislative committees and public institutions. He mentored dental externs in his office as an adjunct faculty member of the University of New England College of Dental Medicine, and he never stopped learning. He formed strong collaborative bonds with his peers to expand treatment opportunities for his patients and further develop his own skills. He took quiet pride in his induction into the International College of Dentistry. Dentistry was his passion.
But not his only passion! Chuck was a tennis pro and a master scuba diver. He taught tennis, ice diving and rescue diving, and he always made time to play catch with his daughter in the front yard. He commuted to work by bike for 38 years and incentivized alternative transportation for his staff. He rebuilt an old sports car that he rarely drove but tinkered with constantly.
Chuck’s passion for rescuing animals deserves a special mention. Under the auspices of New England English Springer Spaniel Rescue, he and his family rehomed about 60 unwanted dogs. The ones that were too “quirky” to place stayed with him. His favorite was Oliver, but he truly loved them all.
Chuck attended public schools in Dedham, Mass., and graduated from the University of Vermont and Tufts School of Dental Medicine. His first job in dentistry was with Vermont Dental Care, where he worked for roughly 50 years. His extended family included his predeceased parents, Arthur and Rita Seleen; his wife, Leanora Mead Terhune; children, Wendy Sefert Harvey and Geoffrey Scott Sefert; his “sister,” Dr. Julie Olin; dozens of fur kids; and his coworkers at VDC.
Chuck was trusted and loved as a husband, father, dentist, mentor, teacher and friend. A scholarship will be established in his name to support a deserving student at UNE who demonstrates public service through volunteer work or other efforts to address unmet dental needs in the community. Tax-deductible contributions may be made to Chuck’s Scholarship Fund, c/o Vermont Dental Care , 32B Malletts Bay Ave., Winooski, VT 05404. Donations of any amount are very welcome.
This article appears in Sep 21-27, 2022.
So sorry for your loss. He sounds like a truly remarkable man. His work lives on, as he influenced so many.
My daughter had him as her dentist. What an amazing practice he anchored and what a contribution to the community and to children especially. I’m sorry for your loss.
Chuck was such a warm and caring person. He was passionate about bringing dental care to people who did not have the means to afford. I was a patient for 43 years and loved him and his incredible staff. Best wishes to his adoring family. The State of Vermont has lost the preeminent voice for quality dental care for everyone.
I only met him once, but he is remembered and appreciated for his and his staff’s high quality of care for my son. Rest in peace!
I am so truly sorry for your loss. DR. Seleen was our family’s dentist since 2008. He was a very loving, and welcoming Doctor, who made all of us laugh even on our worst days. He will terribly be missed. Rest in peace Doctor Seleen.😭
I just heard of Chuck’s death. He & his super staff, saved my poor teeth for 20+ years; he was such a kind & very special man, I miss him terribly.
Thank you, everyone who remembers Chuck fondly. He meant so much to so many of us. Tocher Mitchell, Kathy Delucca, Senada Sekocevic, and many donors created the scholarship in Chuck’s name at the University of New England School of Dentistry and the first recipient was chosen last year. Vermont Dental Care merged with the nonprofit Community Health Center in Burlington, with Dr. Barrymore and VDC staff at the helm. Chuck’s ashes were spread throughout his gardens, and along paths he walked daily with his dogs. His bikes went to Old Spokes Home, his scuba gear to Waterfront Divers, and his cars are with dear friends who shared his passion for them. His home is now home to a wonderful family who share his love of Appletree Point Farm, Lea is with her family in New Mexico and Colorado, his dogs are with him now, and another scholarship will be given this year, and for years to come, to students who share his commitment to dentistry and community service. 💕🖖