ROBRET SNEAD

ROBERT F. SNEAD Nov. 21, 1916 - Feb. 9, 2011 Bob was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington and is pre-deceased by his parents, James and Ruth Snead; brother, Eugene Snead; sister, Maxine Mitchell and wife, Betty Snead. His entire career centered on his love of cars. As a young adult, he worked in various local dealerships as a mechanic. He owned and operated a Shell gas station on 38th street in the late 40's, and later a Mobil station on 38th street across from the Flying Boots Caf . He opened Snead Motors adjacent to the gas station and sold cars he restored. In the 50's he joined with partner, Joe Henderson to own and operate British Motor Cars on South Tacoma Way in Nalley Valley. The partnership also opened a dealership in Seattle. Bob resigned British Motor Cars to move to Olympia and owned and operated the Chrysler-Plymouth agency and later introduced the new Edsel car. His love for foreign cars prevailed, and he opened a new dealership in Olympia with British models MGA, Triumph, Jaguar, and Hillman. In the 60's Bob moved back to Tacoma and opened Sport Car Center on South Tacoma Way. In addition to the British cars, the Swedish Volvo was added to the dealership. He continued in this business until he retired in 1982 and sold the agency. Bob loved boating! He began with an inboard Chris Craft speedboat and updated to various sizes over the years until he found his dream boat - a 1956 56' Chris Craft yacht. He named the boat "Anita" for his wife, Betty (Anita Pennick). Many friends and family enjoyed yachting in Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands and reveling in the beauty of the Great Northwest and Canada aboard the "Anita." He is survived by his daughter, Mardelle Lustig (John) of San Diego and grandchildren Kim Stewart of San Diego and Donn Stewart of North Carolina; step-daughter, Pat Judy (John) of Tacoma and grandchildren, Chris Judy of Bellevue, WA and Jennifer Sanow of Portland, Oregon. Jean Flora was a special friend and caregiver the past 10 years. Without her kindness and spiritual gifts, dad would not have enjoyed the security and happiness of daily living she shared in his life. Our family is grateful for her devotion. A special thanks to his professional caregivers who attended him with love and respect and helped to make his home environment a place of peace, love and security. We will never forget you and the comfort you gave him. A Memorial service and light luncheon will be held at the Tacoma Yacht Club at 1pm on Sunday, March 27, 2011. A private burial will held following the service. Remembrances may be made in memory of Robert F. and Betty Snead and designated to lupus research. Mailing address is UW Medicine Advancement, Box 358045, Seattle, WA 98195.