Selbert Athias

October 3, 1928 - August 7, 2026 Selbert Athias passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 7, 2026 at the age of 97. Born on October 3, 1928, in Kingston, Jamaica, Selbert lived a long and remarkable life shaped by faith, determination, hard work, family, and an enduring entrepreneurial spirit. Selbert spent his early years in Jamaica, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life. He loved sharing stories about his younger days there, often giving his family a glimpse into his experiences, the people and memories that helped shape the man he became. His journey eventually took him from Jamaica to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada where he met Inez Viner. They married and later moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota to start their family. Even though their lives took separate paths: they shared a lasting bond with the family they created. In fact, their homes were only four blocks from each other. Inez preceded him in death. After settling in Minnesota, Selbert put his determination skill, and strong work ethic to use as an entrepreneur founding S. Athias Ornamental Iron Company, and later S. Athias Chemical Company. A talented craftsman, he fabricated and installed decorative iron railings, fences, gates and other ornamental iron products. He took great pride in his work and in building a business of his own. His craftsmanship became a lasting part of homes and properties throughout the area, cementing a tangible legacy of the many years he spent working with his hands. While Selbert was a determined and hardworking man who believed in making his own way in life, there was also a lighter side to him. He had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed making people laugh. His unwavering confidence was displayed in his fashion sense. He was a sharp dresser, and in his younger years, considered himself quite the ladies man. Faith was an important and enduring part of his life. Being deeply religious, he developed strength and found comfort from scripture. Reading his Bible daily throughout his life. Fittingly, when he passed, his Bible was found there at his side- a quiet and meaningful reflection of the faith that sustained him throughout his life's journey. His parting moto to everyone was always " Don't forget to say your prayers". Selbert was the proud father of five children: Clarice Johnson, Angela Athias, Dwight Athias (Molly), Lori Youmans (David), and Frank Athias. All of whom survived him. His legacy lives on through his grand children: Deidra Athias, MIlo Athias, Cole Athias, Levi Athias, Denise Rogers, Tina Jackson, Johnny Perry, Desi Perry, Laitia Langford, Cherida Terrill, and Dewandis Youmans, as well as his great-grand children, and great-great grand children. Few gifts in 97 years of life are greater that having the opportunity to see one's family grow across so many generations. From his beginnings in Jamaica, to Canada, and ultimately to the life and business he built in Minnesota, Selbert's journey was one of perseverance, tenacity, hard work and faith. He leaves behind the craftsmanship of his hands and the customers who own his masterpieces. But his greatest legacy is in the generation of family who follow him, the lessons he taught them, the example he set, and the love and memories that will remain. His life and faith are beautifully reflected in the words of 2 Timothy 4:7- "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith". Selbert will be deeply missed but forever remembered. His work on earth is finished, his faith remained steadfast, and his family finds peace in trusting that he is now at rest in the presence of the Lord