News Summary
Paul Matthew Selinkoff, a revered surgeon, musician, and family man, passed away peacefully after a brave battle with cancer and Parkinson’s disease. Known for his dedication to medicine and his love for music, fishing, and family, he leaves behind a rich legacy. A memorial service is planned to honor his contributions to healthcare and his many accomplishments. Paul was a father, husband, and friend to many, and his compassionate nature touched countless lives.
San Antonio, Texas – Paul Matthew Selinkoff, a respected surgeon, musician, and beloved family member, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, just three weeks after celebrating his 81st birthday. His death follows a courageous battle with liver and bone cancer, as well as Parkinson’s disease.
Throughout his vibrant life, Paul was known for his deep love for music, fishing, travel, and family. He is survived by his wife Linda, children Jessica and Aaron, stepdaughters April and Crystal, and many grandchildren, as well as countless friends and patients whose lives he touched during his illustrious career.
Paul Selinkoff was born on May 19, 1944, in Panama. His father served as a U.S. Navy doctor during World War II, but tragically, he passed away when Paul was just 11 years old. Following this loss, Paul took on the responsibilities of caregiving for his younger brother Richard and their mother, Lillian Weiner Selinkoff Robertson.
After graduating from Mt. Pleasant High School in Wilmington, Delaware, Paul went on to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and later transferred to the University of Delaware, where he participated in the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. He furthered his education by earning a medical degree from Thomas Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia.
During the Vietnam War, Paul was drafted and served in Italy with the U.S. Air Force, where he was accompanied by his first wife Carol and their children, Jessica and Aaron. His time in Italy was marked by cherished memories, including clam bakes, road trips in an orange Fiat convertible, and culinary adventures in mastering Italian cuisine, notably his signature dish, Zuppa di Pesce.
After completing his surgical residency at the Cleveland Clinic, Paul continued his service at Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix and Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio. At Wilford Hall, he distinguished himself by training the next generation of surgeons while also developing innovative bariatric surgical procedures. For his contributions, he was honored with several accolades, including the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and National Defense Service Medal. Paul ultimately retired from the Air Force with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Following his military service, Paul transitioned into private practice as a general surgeon in San Antonio, where he became a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He also served as Chief of Staff at Methodist Hospital. Paul co-founded Bexar PAC, an organization dedicated to supporting judicial candidates for physician and patient care advocacy, further demonstrating his commitment to healthcare and community service.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Paul was a passionate musician. He played multiple instruments, including the piano, French horn, banjo, and guitar. He often performed both classical and folk music and shared his love of various musical genres, such as classical music, opera, bluegrass, and rock, with his children.
Paul enjoyed fishing in locations around the world, including the Texas Hill Country, Gulf of Mexico, California, and Costa Rica. He famously survived a near-fatal boating accident in Costa Rica but remained undeterred in his love for the water and continued fishing thereafter. He also had a profound appreciation for literature, frequently visiting bookstores and engaging in trivia games with his family.
Known for his exceptional sense of humor, Paul had the unique ability to bring joy and laughter to those around him. He also had a deep affection for dogs, owning several throughout his life, such as Jake, Brownie, and Melon, affectionately known as Collie Baby.
In honor of Paul Selinkoff’s life and legacy, a memorial service is scheduled for June 25, 2025, at Porter Loring Mortuary in San Antonio, Texas, followed by burial at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Paul can be made to Warriors & Quiet Waters or the Parkinson’s Foundation.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Paul Matthew Selinkoff Obituary
- Wikipedia: San Antonio, Texas
- Dignity Memorial: Paul’s Music and Love for Fishing
- Google Search: Paul Selinkoff Surgeon
- Dignity Memorial: Paul’s Military Service and Achievements
- Google Scholar: Paul Selinkoff Bariatric Surgery
- Dignity Memorial: Paul’s Life and Legacy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Parkinson’s Disease
- Dignity Memorial: Remembering Paul Selinkoff
- Google News: Paul Selinkoff Memorial Service
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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