Jack E. Snell

Jack was born on October 5, 1926, in Seattle WA; a true WA native, and a 1944/45 Ballard High grad. Immediately following graduation, he entered WWII by joining the US Navy on his 18th birthday. Upon his return, Jack enrolled at UW, but cut short his education to join the engineering firm Morford & Mowry as a land surveyor, becoming part owner after the deaths of the original owners. After 20 years in private practice, he hired on as party chief in land surveying for Seattle City Light, often surveying the movement of Dams. Jack remained with City Light for 20 years until his retirement. Jack met Peggy Russell at a dance in 1952, and he commented to a friend that night that he had found the girl he was going to marry. They married a year later and spent 74 wonderful years together, raising 3 daughters, all Ballard grads. Family was always at the forefront in Jack's life and many gatherings were held at their home. They also enjoyed entertaining friends at their property on Hood Canal with their Oyster Bash and at their rustic cabin in Ocean Park, WA., where Jack’s favorite pastime was digging for the elusive razor clam. Jack and Peggy loved traveling and cruising with Maui being a favorite destination, often with their children and grandchildren. He was a man of many talents and was a master woodworker, as well as a master gardener.

Jack is survived by his loving wife Peggy; daughters Laurie, Jody (Rich), Lisa (Ian) and 6 grandchildren. Jonathan Kirkland; Michael, Annie Schlachter; Joshua, Ava and Leina Zentner, as well as several nieces and nephews. His children and grandchildren were a constant in Jack's life, and could often be found at the family home. A celebration of Jack's life will be held at Acacia Memorial Park and Funeral Home, Wednesday, April 29, 1:00