John Sniezak

John "Jack" Sniezak, 36, passed away suddenly at home in New Smyrna Beach, FL on February 10, 2026.

He is survived by his mother, Cynthia (Chlastawa) Sniezak of New Smyrna Beach, FL (formerly of Springfield, MA); and his father, Gary Alan Sniezak of Syracuse, NY (formerly of Chicopee, MA), and many brothers, aunts, uncles and cousins. Beloved grandson, he was preceded in death by Joseph and Jean (Fisher) Sniezak of Chicopee, MA and Thaddeus and Janet (Kupiec) Chlastawa of Springfield, MA.

Born February 3, 1990, in Hartford, CT, Jack spent his formative years in Windsor, CT, Orlando, FL and Columbia, SC. He attended Lake Highland Prep in Orlando before moving to Columbia, where he continued his education at Hammond School, Hand Middle School, and Dreher High School. At Dreher, Jack participated in Junior ROTC, reflecting a strong sense of discipline and commitment. He has a published work in the Library of Congress.

In addition to being a SC Palmetto Scholar, Jack's academic record earned him the Charles E. Daniels Scholarship, one of the highest honors given by Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC to an incoming freshman.
The Daniels scholarship, renewable annually for three years, is awarded to only one Early Decision candidate. At Wofford, Jack majored in Computer Science, loved math, and speaking French.

Jack was known for his sharp wit and gift for storytelling. A talented writer with a vivid imagination and a keen sense of humor, he brought laughter and insight to those around him.

He loved making model rockets as a child and launching them with his dad. Jack also liked flying in fixed wing, single engine with his father as the pilot. A fascination with flight continued with us watching many launches from the Spaceport near our home.

He had a talent for cooking and often prepared meals and desserts for family and friends—an act that brought him great joy and connection. Whether experimenting with new recipes or perfecting family favorites, his mom's kitchen was always a place of laughter, warmth and sharing.

He found peace walking along the beach at night under the stars—a quiet ritual that reflected his introspective nature. Jack also enjoyed reading widely and writing creatively. His hobbies included golf, shooting pool with friends, teaching gun safety, and target shooting at the range—activities he pursued with focus, enthusiasm and skill.

Jack valued the enduring friendships he built throughout school and work, particularly in Engineering Services at the Walt Disney World Resort and the Rootz Lounge in Orlando. These long-standing bonds were a testament to his loyalty and the genuine connections he fostered over time. He had an affinity for all animals, particularly wild foxes and Loki.

A Catholic funeral mass will be held at 10 am, March 5 at Our Lady, Star of the Sea Church in New Smyrna Beach, FL. Family and friends will remember Jack at a firelight beachside gathering at 6:30 pm that evening at the Flagler Avenue ramp. All are welcome.

In lieu of all flowers, donations may be made in Jack's name to God's Bathhouse of Volusia County (godsbathhouse.org) or to Under the Stars Mission, 1111 S. Orange St, New Smyrna Beach, Fl 32169.

Cremains will be committed at the family's convenience.