Milton Snell

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Milton “Milt” J. Snell, age 58, of Potsdam, NY. A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Potsdam, NY. Calling hours will take place Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Garner Funeral Service. Milton passed away on Friday, November 29, 2024, surrounded by family at the University of Rochester Medical Center. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Garner Funeral Service.

Born on May 4, 1966, in Potsdam, NY, to Milton Phillip and W. Kinga (Zytkowicz) Snell, Milt was a lifelong resident of the North Country. A proud 1984 graduate of Norwood-Norfolk Central School, he furthered his education at Canton ATC, earning an associate’s degree. Milt was a familiar face in the Potsdam community, known for his warmth, humor, genuine care, and love for helping others. He was a popular figure at the local establishments and a longtime member of the Moose Lodge, where above all others, wanted to spend time amongst friends, whether it be in a friendly game of foosball or pool, being an emergency fill-in drummer, or simply being that guy who would ask, “When are you going to smarten up and buy a Chevy?”

He was a devoted friend and not afraid of having a good time. His friendly nature, easy-going demeanor, and zest for life made him a beloved presence to those around him.

Milt loved his family. He married Debbie Maguire in 1987. He was extremely proud of their two children, Jennifer and Brandon and was at his happiest when she was on one of her horses or when Brandon had followed in his footsteps and found his place behind a drum set. Just ask his friends…whether it be a picture of Jen from a horse show or with his grandchildren, or a video of Brandon and his bands performing live at a gig, he loved sharing them the most. Probably a little too much actually as I’m sure plenty of us had the chance to see the same video multiple times.

Though their marriage ended in divorce, Milt remained an adoring father and grandfather. On November 6, 2009, he married Cindy Johnson Smutz, and they celebrated 15 memorable years together.

Milt was the proud owner and operator of Snell All-Season Contracting, where he enjoyed operating his Kubota tractor and other heavy equipment, hydroseeding in the summers, and plowing in the winters. Milt loved riding his Harley and watching his New York Football Giants on tv. His infectious personality, his love for family, and his passion for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the countless memories he leaves behind.

Milt is survived by his wife, Cindy Smutz Snell of Potsdam; his mother, Kinga Snell; his children, Jennifer Merriman and her husband Brock of Potsdam; a son, Brandon Snell of Potsdam; a step son, Trey Smutz and his wife Amanda of Potsdam; his brother, Matthew Snell and his wife Melissa of Potsdam; his sisters, Marie Kopke and her husband Tom of Conroe, TX, Maeana Cragg and her husband Eric of Norwood, Mother Abbess Cecila (Martina Snell) of Gower, MO; his grandchildren, Allie, Tyler, Sophie, and Colt Merriman; 23 nieces and nephews; and many cousins. He was predeceased by the most important man in his life, his father, Milton P. Snell in 2001.

Memorial contributions may be made in Milton’s name to the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles at benedictinesofmary.org.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at garnerfh.com.