Earl H. Sehi, Jr.

Earl H. Sehi, Jr. of Lake Wales (Highland Park) passed away Monday, July 26, 2010 at the Lake Wales Medical Center. He had suffered a major stroke in 1990 and several complications developed over the years leading to his death.

He was born July 3, 1925 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Earl and Margaret (Arrol) Sehi. He served in the US Marine Corps from 1943 to 1946. He was stationed in the Marshall Islands, Okinawa and then in Tokyo for the occupation of Japan after their surrender.

After WW II Earl moved to Hillsdale, Michigan and met Martha Beck while attending Hillsdale College. They were married in June 1950 and started their family in Hillsdale. In 1967 the family moved to Lake Wales (Highland Park). Earl and Martha began their teaching careers in Lake Wales area schools. Earl spent a few years as a teacher at Lake Wales High School then as an administrator at the Lake Wales Adult and Community Education. His proudest professional accomplishment was to be able to help so many Lake Wales area residents over the years.

His secondary career was as a local politician. He served the Village of Highland Park as a commissioner, Mayor, and/or Village Manager for more than 35 years. He was very proud to serve his community.

He served as president of the Lake Wales Arts Council during its early days. He was also active in many civic, environmental and service organizations throughout his 43 years in the community.

Survivors include his wife, Martha B. Sehi; daughter, Elaine Lilly of Babson Park; son, Chuck Sehi of Lake Wales; brother, Chuck Sehi of The Villages; granddaughter, Melany Clayton (Adam) of Lake Wales; grandson, Ben Sehi of Lake Wales; great-grandsons, Logan Clayton of Lake Wales, and Caleb Clayton of Lake Wales, and several nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 PM Monday, August 9, 2010 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home, Lake Wales.