William "Bill" Gordon Sellwood of Mahtomedi, MN, a man of rare and remarkable character, passed away peacefully at home on March 15, 2024, after a brief but fearless battle with cancer. He was 66 years old.

Bill is survived by his strong and loving wife Jane Cartwright, sons Joseph (Allyson) and Thomas, grandchildren Whitford (5), Aurora (4), and Evelyn (1), and siblings Terri, Kathy, John, Paul, Tom, and Chris. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Noble and Mary, whose memory he cherished dearly. He leaves behind a legion of nephews, nieces, friends, colleagues, brothers and sisters in Christ, and countless individuals from all walks of life who found refuge in Bill’s warmth and wisdom.

Born on November 27, 1957, in Duluth, Minnesota, Bill lived a life marked by compassion, integrity, and relentless spirit.

Bill epitomized the profound truth that Love Is Action. In every facet of his existence -  relationships, work, or service to others - Bill was a man of action, and therefore, a man of love.

Bill gave people the time of day. He was an engaged, empathic listener. He articulated his thoughts with a distinctive color and unique vigor that had the power to not only captivate, but to lead, inspire, and motivate. He had an unwavering commitment to helping, teaching, coaching, and lifting up anyone who needed it. His relentless energy to be of service to others reflected the core of Bill’s loving heart.

Through his actions, Bill showed us that love isn't just a feeling. Love Is Action, and if we’re willing, it drives our hearts to offer something beyond just words.

In his nearly 39 years of marriage to Jane, Bill exemplified true partnership and devotion. Together, they navigated life's peaks and valleys with grace, developing an unbreakable bond that stood as the foundation of love and strength for their sons, Joseph and Thomas. Bill’s fierce dedication to raising his family was limitless. As his family grew, so did Bill’s love. His affection and care extended to his daughter-in-law Allyson, and three grandchildren, Whitford, Aurora, and Evelyn. In his final days on earth, he prayed not for himself, but for peace and clarity for his family.

Bill’s life was beyond classification. As a football coach, his impact inspired young boys to be great men. As a real estate appraiser, his expertise set the standard. As a small-business owner, he created jobs and nurtured careers. As a devoted church elder, he provided guidance and leadership to his church community. And after longer than 40 years of sobriety, Bill served as inspiration and support for others working to overcome addiction.

Bill will be missed, but his spirit will continue to shine brightly through the lives he touched. In honoring William Gordon Sellwood, we celebrate a lifetime of love, action and far-reaching impact. A humble man, Bill’s journey left an indelible imprint on the hearts and souls of all who were blessed to know him.

Bill lived and died knowing that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and that Love Is Action.