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William Snethkamp
William Snethkamp
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William Snethkamp Obituary
Williamston
President, Bill Snethkamp's Lansing Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep & Ram, age 65, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2014. Bill was born in Detroit, MI, September 24, 1949 to an automotive family and grew up in the dealership. He attended Austin High School and Northern Michigan University. Bill started his first dealership at age 28, and was a successful Chrysler Dodge Jeep franchisee until his death.
Bill was a past president of The Michigan Auto Dealers Association, and the Michigan Outstate Dodge Dealer Advertising Association. An avid snowmobiler and boater, Bill also spent many wonderful hours bicycling on Mackinac Island. Bill will be fondly remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, employer, and one of the nicest guys in the world.
Bill is predeceased by his parents, William E. and Beata Snethkamp. Surviving is his loving wife Donna (Chafy) and devoted sons, William E. III and Steven (Jessica); loving siblings, JoAnn Parker (Bill), Mary Hines (Dave), Susan, Mark (Deborah). He is also survived by his wonderful mother-in-law Marie Chafy and nephews Christopher Chafy, Mark Snethkamp Jr. and nieces Jennifer Bierkle, Shannon Jones, Jill Maks and his loyal and well-loved dealership family.
A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, December 17, 2014, 10:30 a.m. at St. John Church and Student Center, 327 MAC Avenue, East Lansing, MI with the Rev. Mark Inglot officiating. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 16, 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Avenue, East Lansing, with the Rosary being prayed at 7:30 p.m. The family will also receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Contributions may be made in memory of Bill to the Lansing City Rescue Mission Homeless Shelter, 2216 South Cedar Street, Lansing, MI 48910. On line condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
B3
March 22, 2024
Greg Hoshal
September 28, 2016
Hi Donna,
I think of Bill often. I feel blessed to have known him(and you) albeit for a short time. Bill brightened his surroundings wherever he went. Gracious, generous, welcoming, and showing a lot of gratitude. We will never forget Bill. Very, very special man.
-Greg & Celia Hoshal
Debby (Foster) Johnson
September 27, 2016
Donna and Family so sorry to hear about your loss. I just heard about this today. I knew Bill through the Detroit Outstate Dodge Adverising Association. What a great loss. Debby (Foster) Johnson
Bethany Bullion
January 6, 2016
So, the dealership is almost finished--just the last touches to lights and stuff. You would be sO PROUD! It is everything you wanted. There is not a day that goes by that I (and many others), don't think about and miss you terribly still!!
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Karen Marszalec
May 28, 2015
Donna and Family, we just learned the news from Pam at Jefferson Beach, wondering where you guys were. Larry and I are so sorry for your loss, Bill was a great guy, always with a smile (as with you) and always willing to help out around the boat. We so enjoyed having you as well mates, and will miss you both very much. Please give me a call if you are ever in the area, we would love to see you. All our sympathy Karen and Larry Marszalec Major Award 586 484 8808
Vonda Ampey
December 23, 2014
As a fellow Detroiter, I was proud to buy all my cars from Snethkamp Dodge! I met Mr. Snethkamp twice and he was always seeing to my repairs being done to his standards. RIP!
Donna Snethkamp
December 21, 2014
Thanks to everyone remembering my wonderful husband, Bill. These tributes and condolences give me hope that he knew how very much he was loved and respected, not only by me, but by everyone who was fortunate to have known him.
lovingly.........Donna Snethkamp
Cindy & Spanky Klinger/Hensley
December 21, 2014
To the Snethkamp Family,
So sorry to hear. Many fond memories growing up.
Lincoln Phillip
December 18, 2014
The Fetsco, and Phillip families send our heartfelt condolence. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and may he rest in eternal peace.
Elaine Tate Family
December 18, 2014
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss…our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
James Slingerland
December 17, 2014
Donna and Family, Please accept our deepest sympathy on the passing of Bill. Bill was a fellow autodealer and we always valued the positive relationship between Snethkamps and Slingerlands. His 28 years in the auto business forged the way for many of us and we will always value his efforts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jim and Mary Slingerland
Dave Puranen
December 17, 2014
Dear Donna, Renee and I met you and Bill at a pivotal time in our lives. Bill's outstretched hand and your hospitality opened the door to a whole new way of life for us. Thanks for showing us Mackinac island and destinations far beyond in life. You are in our prayers and Bill will always be remembered.
Dave and Renee "Finger Paint" Algonac,Mi.
J. Venable
December 17, 2014
My father-in-law worked for Bill until his retirement. He always spoke very kindly of this gentle man. May you rest peacefully in heaven Mr. Snethkamp.
Jack & Peggy Shoultes
December 17, 2014
So sorry to read of your loved one, Bill's passing. Always had a smile for all, and was such a pleasure to do business with during the past years. Our prayers are with all of you and may your memories always be happy ones!
Danielle Lee
December 16, 2014
Dear Donna,Bill & Steven,
Im so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will always remember Bill as a fun outgoing guy with tremendous love for his family. He will be missed and loved by many forever.
Valerie Haan
December 16, 2014
To family: I worked for Lansing radio station WVIC as head copywriter. Bill was my very favorite client: always patient, understanding, and unfailingly a gentleman. He is remembered especially.
Elizabeth Hude
December 16, 2014
Donna,
I am so sorry for your loss. Wishing you and your family peace and comfort during this time.
David, Eric & Don Tubbs
December 16, 2014
To the Snethkamp family. The Tubbs family was sad to hear of Bill's passing. We have many fine memories of our times at MADA and on the grounds of the Grand Hotel. Our deepest sympathies and condolences. Don, David and Eric.
December 16, 2014
Dear Donna and Family, I was saddened to learn of Bill's passing and wanted you to know that I was thinking of all of you.
I trust your own sense of personal loss will find comfort with the passage of time and the many memories you must have of a loved and loving husband and father.
Please know that I join your many, many friends in extending my salute to a true gentleman and neighbor whom I will never forget. Please let me know if there is anyway I can be of assistance to you.
Gary M. Woodbury
Kathy/Larry Bozyk
December 16, 2014
Donna, We're so sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family. We hope that wonderful memories will lift your heart during this very sad time. You were a great loving advocate for Bill during his illness. RIP
Amanda Collins
December 16, 2014
Dear Sue and Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts during this difficult time. My heart goes out to you all.
Gina Torielli
December 16, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. It has been several years since we worked together on the Dodge dealers board, but I have such good memories of him. My condolences to the entire Snethkamp family. I know you will miss Bill's joyful presence. Gina Torielli.
Greta deWolf
December 16, 2014
Dear Donna:
I am so sorry to hear about William's passing. I know that he will be missed by many people. May God provide you comfort in this time and as you move forward. Greta de Wolf
Anastasia Brooks
December 15, 2014
"Life's but a shadow..." God Bless you and your family, dear Bill, rest in peace. It is time to meet God.
Nicky Constine
December 15, 2014
Dear Donna, we are so sorry for your loss! We were so lucky to know Bill, he always put a smile on our face and we will truly miss him at Duncan Bay. and macinaw island won't be the same without seeing Bill pass us on his bike, with that great big smile on his face as to say... Ahh life is good! He sure loved that place! Our heart breaks for you my friend!
Bob Bron
December 15, 2014
My name is Bob Brown. I worked with Bill Sr. and Jr. a the Highland Park store as a technician for over 20 years. I have lots of good memories. I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was a great guy! Condolences to you and your family.
Nancy Graham
December 15, 2014
Donna, my condolence to you and your family. My husband worked for Bill as a salesman for 23. Maybe Bill, Ron, and Ben will meet up for a round of golf. RIP Bill.
Franklin Marciniak
December 15, 2014
Sorry to hear about Bill's passing unfortunately I will not be able to attend the funeral i'm living in Florida now. I also attended Northern we were all very close: Bill, Gary, Stew, Al and the kid from New York Frank. Again my deepest condolences to the Snethkamp family.
December 15, 2014
Dear Donna and children: my deepest condolences on the passing of a wonderful husband and father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Una A. Isaacs, East Lansing.
December 15, 2014
Dearest Donna, we send our love and deepest sympathy to you and your family. Wendell and Marta Barron
John Hall
December 15, 2014
Bill was first my neighbor, next my car dealer and subsequently a Caribbean sailing mate, my motorcycling friend, a ski bum, a nonstop snowmobiling companion and most of all an all-around friend. We have lost a great guy. We'll miss him.
John, Bonnie,David and Dana Hall
Amanda Mardigian
December 15, 2014
Steve, your dad was so proud of you! My dad was a car guy too and I always heard stories about how caring and funny your dad was. I just lost my dad as well. My deepest condolences to your family.
David Howe
December 15, 2014
Donna & Family,
I already miss Bill from that first phone call I received on Friday Morning,
Bill & I have been friends and business partners for over 30+ years.
I will miss walking into His Office and him asking me 'How many did you sell for me this week'. And all them 3 day business trips to Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs (wow - what a blast we had). And 'Thank You' to the whole Snethkamp Automotive Group for all the dealer trades we've done over the years & still to this day.
David A. Howe
Beacon Sales & Service
Charlotte, Mi.
Duran Martinez
December 15, 2014
Thoughts, prayers and our deepest sympathies with the entire Snethkamp family. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Snethkamp on several occasions as well as do live broadcasts from the Lansing location. Was always greeted with a smile and a kind word. My condolences. - Duran
Anastasia Brooks
December 15, 2014
I have been fortunate to have known Bill for many years. The first time I met him, I was seventeen. I was with Mary and David Hines, spending a weekend in northern Michigan, and we went over to Bill and Donna's cottage to say "hi" and to see their new baby. A gracious host, Bill was also a very attentive husband who socialized with us but whose eyes were most of the time on his young wife and the newborn son Steven. That's how I remember him- a devoted husband and a kind, quite person who looked after everyone around him in a very discreet and genuine way.
Later, over the years, I learned that Bill had many other sides; he was a very capable manager and business owner, a fun-loving snowmobile rider, a devoted parent, and a sincere friend.
The last time I saw Bill was on Mackinac Island. After dinner, we all gathered on his boat for a piece of cherry pie and a glass of wine. Bill looked great - athletic, with a deep tan, and an understated charm. The only person that seemed fit for him was his gorgeous wife Donna.
Dear Bill, you will never be forgotten.
Love and peace.
Anastasia Brooks
Bethany Bullion
December 15, 2014
I have worked for Bill for 13 years and he always made you feel like part of his family. He has been a kind and generous person to me and my family and I will miss him and his smile. GOD SPEED BILL, and heartfelt sympathy to Donna and the complete Snethkamp family.
David Burgess
December 14, 2014
I first met bill 18 years ago. He will always be remembered as one of the kindest and caring gentleman I have ever had the pleasure to know. My prayers go out to all his loved ones. Bill will be dearly missed by all whose lives he touched.
Bill and Dave last summer
Mary Hines
December 14, 2014
I will really miss my dear brother, Bill. He truly was a family man, keeping his children, wife and family close to him. I will keep him in my heart.
Mary
December 14, 2014
I only worked two years for Bill, but I was just as important to him as someone who had been there a long time. He was always friendly. Prayers for the family. I'm sure he will be greatly missed.
Randy Campbell
Todd Kessler
December 14, 2014
I had the pleasure, to work for Bill for many years, he was a great person, and will be missed. My deepest heartfelt regards, to Donna and the Snethkamp family, for their loss. Sincerely, Todd Kessler
TROY DYE
December 14, 2014
I REMEMBER BILL WHEN HE CAME BACK FROM SCHOOL AND STARTED TO WORK FOR BILL SR. HE LEARNED VERY QUICKLY AND WAS A GOOD FRIEND AND SUPRERVISOR. GOD BLESS THE FAMILY AND AND KNOW HE IS IN A BETTER PLACE CRADLED BY GODS' HANDS.
Scott McGillis
December 14, 2014
I had the privilege of working for Bill Snethkamp for the last 14 years. He was a true blessing in my life and will be missed very much. I'm very happy I got to ride with him snowmobiling last year! We have lost a wonder man.
Gary and Barb Lewinski
December 14, 2014
A life long friend will be missed greatly. Will remember all the great times we spent together especially those Memorial weekend motorcycle trips. Very grateful that the 5 of us that turned 65 got together this past August. Prayers and thoughts are for Donna and family.
Rick and Colleen Topous
December 14, 2014
May God bless the entire Snethkamp family during this difficult time.
Greg & Celia Hoshal
December 14, 2014
It has been a joy & blessing to know and spend time with Bill & Donna, treasured memories. Bill, his friendship, and his zeal and love for life will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Donna and the family.
Tom and Suzanne Miller
December 14, 2014
We are so very saddened to hear of Bill's sudden passing. Our thoughts, prayers and condolences to his loving family during this difficult time. Bill was such a great guy. We will miss him very much.
Bill O'Connor
December 14, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with Donna and the entire Snethkamp family.
Jim and Lynn Sisson
December 14, 2014
Our most sincere sympathy for the Snethcamp family. Bill was a terrific guy and we know that God has welcomed him home with open arms. Prayers for the comfort of his entire family. RIP Bill.
Jay Glaspie & Family
December 13, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Snethkamp Family. May he rest in peace.
December 13, 2014
I am shocked to hear of the passing of Bill. Bill and his family were our neighbors in Atlanta, Mi. Please accept my family's condolences at the loss of your husband and father. Barbara Reed Wambold
Tim Martin
December 13, 2014
Bill Snethkamp was a wonderful person and a true car guy. He lived and loved life. I was very fortunate to have know him but he leaves behind a great legacy for all to enjoy. My thoughts and prayers are with his family
December 13, 2014
My prayers and thoughts will be with the Snethkamp family. Gordy Shepherd
Gary Weber
December 13, 2014
My condolence to the Snethkamp family. I have had the privilege to work for Mr. Snerhkamp these past two years. A true visionary with his business and the community. Lansing truely has lost a Family Oriented businessman.
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1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
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