Elane L. Seltzer

Albany- Elane Linda Seltzer, 80, died on April 11, 2021 after a 25 year battle with Parkinson's disease. She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Frederic Seltzer of Albany; her son Lukas Wagner (Kristen) of Onancock, VA along with her sister Victoria Kohl of Shelby Township, MI; as well as two nephews and two step grandsons.

Elane was the daughter of the late Edith Miller and Lane Foreman. She was named after both parents: E for Edith her mother, and Lane for her father. Elane grew up on Long Island and graduated from Babylon High School where she was a Merit scholar. She then earned her BA degree from Dickinson College in Carlisle, PA. with a major in English literature.
She was an accomplished writer and editor of company publications at Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. in New York City, where she worked for more than 32 years. It was at MetLife that Elane met Fred, her future husband.

She was an avid gardener at her previous homes in Brooklyn in Columbia County. Her son recalls that house plants were all over the home. At one point he remembered counting more than 100. Outside she liked to plant day lilies in there small Brooklyn backyard. When Elane and Fred moved to Columbia County she continued her love of gardening. Fred remembers transplanting many lilies for her. Elane served as president of the Claverack Garden Club several times. Elane and Fred traveled extensively including trips to Africa, Asia and Europe, collecting momentos where they went. She liked to see things and places but most of all she loved meeting people and talking to strangers. So two of her favorite places to visit were the car trips through Canada and Mexico. On these trips they could travel leisurely and Elane would really enjoy the people as well as the places. A visit to Elane's apartment in Avila is a collectors dream. She had extensive collection of stuffed bears. Many in series such as North American bears and Hermann bears. There is also a collection of ceramic donkeys pulling carts. The collection started when one was given to her as a small gift, and then another, and then more. She collected what she admired and that included art glass pieces and crystal glassware.

Her son Lukas remembers Elane as a mother who was always there for him. She encouraged him to follow his dreams and career path as a chef. He has fond memories of making cookies with her as a young boy and giving them to friends and relatives at holidays. Elane was known as such a positive person, during her time at work that she earned the nickname "Mary sunshine."

Her smile and genuine character came through at all times. Her caring nature and desire for happiness was the pinnacle of strength in our family. She will be missed and her spirit lives on through her family and the people she touched throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, 1560 Sherman Avenue Suite 200, Evanston, Illinois 60201-4897, Phone: 847-866-5100.

At her request, there will be no funeral or memorial service.