Selmer Spitzer, PhD, beloved music teacher, conductor, and mentor, passed away on February 3, 2026, in St. George, UT, at the age of 92. He was born on January 26, 1934, at the family farm near Streeter, ND, to Emma (Dammel) Spitzer and Ludwig Spitzer. He married Phyllis Mockel at the First Lutheran Church in Williston, ND, on August 20, 1961.

Selmer was raised on the family farm nine miles east of Streeter, ND and attended country school until he entered high school at Streeter, ND, graduating in 1953. He received his BA in Music Education from Lakeland College, his M.M. Ed. from Vandercook College of Music, and his PhD in Administration and Music Education from Lawrence University.

During his lifetime he was primarily known for his passion for music, teaching instrumental music at all levels in school. After retirement he continued his passion by organizing and conducting 2 symphonies in Nevada, one at the age of 80 and the other at the age of 91. Beyond music, Selmer was a man of many talents and commitments including being a general contractor, rancher, serving as president of the BueLingo Beef Cattle Society, serving on and being president of 2 school boards, and Rotary president. In addition, he was a pilot, serving as County Airport Commissioner. He served his county in the Army National Guard, and his Lord in numerous ways including starting a church in Mesquite, NV.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Phyllis (Mockel) Spitzer, and their 3 children Deborah (Rick) Hearrell, Roberta (David) Harris, and Cameron (Marcie) Spitzer; 7 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Elsie Draeger and Bert Spitzer, and many family members and friends.

Selmer lived a full and generous life marked by service, leadership, and a deep love for God, music, and community. He will be remembered for his kindness, steady presence, humor, and the sincere interest he took in the lives of those around him. His legacy is reflected not only in his accomplishments, but the people he encouraged, mentored, and loved.

Memorial Services will be held Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11:00am at the Valley Presbyterian Church, 350 Falcon Ridge Parkway Ste #702, in Mesquite, Nevada

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 1:00pm at the Hope Ebenezer Methodist Church in Streeter, ND, immediately followed by a Graveside service at the Zion Reformed Cemetery, rural Kidder County, ND.

Selmer Spitzer

February 03, 2026

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