ARTHUR BERNARD SELECTMAN, JR

Every once in a while, a man comes along that is talented, yet humble. Fierce, yet peaceful. Risky, yet calculating. Blessed, yet a giver, both Loving and Kind. And above all a man of God with blind faith that allowed him to see the world quite differently.

The son of enterprising parents, Arthur Bernard Selectman, Jr. was born December 10, 1938, in Kansas City, Kansas. Lettie and Art, Sr. were very proud parents of a precocious child who affectionately became known as "Sonny". He was much loved by his parents who preceded him in death as did his beloved older brother      Rodrick Taylor.

He attended Bishop Ward High School and graduated from Sumner High School, a proud member of the class of 1958. Sonny became the father of twin boys Reginald and Rodney in 1959.

It was at Sumner High School where he met the love of his life, Emma Jean McKelvy. They were married in 1960. Emma predeceased him in 2016.

Their union produced two boys, Jeffrey Bernard Selectman, Sr. born 1960 deceased 1990 and Delbert Curtis Selectman born 1962.

Sonny enjoyed spending time with his family and friends going fishing, annual hunting trips, family vacations, and traveling to Indianapolis 500 races. The Selectman home was known for celebrations. Sonny and Emma liked to entertain and regularly opened their home to friends and classmates for social activities. Sonny like all December-born, would begin celebrating birthdays at the beginning of the month with his close Sagittarius friends until they reached his special day on the 10th of the month. 

At his core, Sonny was a masterful entrepreneur with a long-term vision that would sustain his family and community for decades. The Economy Trade School Shop began by, his parents is where, Sonny opened his first tire shop located at 1935-37 North 5th Street in Kansas City, KS. The Trade School was also the location of what became the nightclub coined the 50 Yard Line that attracted locals and legendary Chief football players.

Sonny was innovative, he pivoted to 1201 State where his ideas grew and expanded into success with the establishment of Perfection Automotive Services which began his ascension to be one of the most recognized minority-owned businesses on the north end of Wyandotte County. Occupying all 4 corners of North 12th Street between State and Minnesota Avenues, Sonny established Perfection Body Shop, A&A Salvage, A&A Towing, and Good Year Perfection Tire Services. A&A represents Arthur and Arthur, “Sonny” and his father. These businesses served as the training ground for his sons where they were allowed to learn and develop their entrepreneurship skills. He taught his sons “the art of the deal”.

In addition to his many awards and accomplishments from Small Businessman of the Year to the President of the IASA Automotive Association, Sonny created an automotive anti-theft device, Theft Guard that was patented and sold nationwide.

Sonny was a community advocate and leader. As a member of the NAACP, he served his community and fostered political affiliations to support and advance small business growth.  A lifelong Catholic, he was a committed and active member of Our Lady of Saint Rose.

Sonny was a big personality and pursued his diverse interests with vigor. Among his many skills and perseverance was piloting his twin-engine Cisna. He was a talented pool player along with his love of hustling those who dared to try their luck.

Sonny lived a fortunate life and truly missed Emma, his loyal and dedicated wife of 56 years. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his sons, daughters-in-law, Lora, Tanya and Glenda, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and long-time friends.

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