Jason Allan Snelling

Jason Allan Snelling, born on February 14, 1982, in Denver, Colorado, left far too soon on December 11, 2024, in Rochester, Minnesota. A beloved son, father, brother, nephew, uncle, cousin and friend to many! Jason faced his life with a spirit that endeared him to many, a testament to his nature as a friend to all who understood the struggles of the underdog.

A graduate of Green Mountain High School in Lakewood, Colorado, Jason excelled as both a student and an athlete. He was known to his teammates and friends in High School as 'Niner', with "9" as his baseball number at GMHS.  He dreamt of becoming a teacher and coach, a vision inspired by his dad, and his passion for nurturing others. His devotion to learning and his ability to engage with everyone he met, were qualities that shone brightly in his life.

Jason’s life was one marked by courage and tragedy, as he navigated a long and arduous battle with addiction and mental health challenges. His passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who loved him, a stark reminder of how much he meant to family and friends alike. Although he fought valiantly to conquer his demons, he ultimately lost that battle, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with love and resilience.

Despite his struggles and many moves, Jason was a lifelong supporter of the Denver Broncos, Rockies, and Nuggets, loyally cheering for his teams even after relocating to Minnesota. His love for sports was just one glimpse into his vibrant personality, which also embraced the warmth of community. He fostered deep connections with his friends, particularly those battling their own addictions and living on the streets alongside him at times. To them, he was more than a friend; he was family—a testament to the bond that echoed through their shared experiences. 

Jason's parents, Al and Theresa Snelling, of Lakewood, Colorado, survive him, as well as his cherished son, Jacob Allan Winans. Jacob lives in Rockford with his mother, Melisa.  Melisa has been Jacob's anchor while Jason dealt with his demons. The love Jason had for his son Jacob was unquestionable; Jacob was his greatest gift amid life’s challenges. He is also survived by his brother, Matthew Snelling, and sister, Elizabeth Robertson, along with their spouses, Jen and Logan respectively. Among them are 6 loving nieces and nephews who have heard many stories of Jason from their parent's childhood memories.  Moreover, he leaves behind his beloved grandmother, Rita Miller, who cherished him dearly, alongside a network of 25 first cousins, 8 uncles/10 aunts, many great aunts and uncles, all who loved him and missed him as his battles mounted. He is survived by many friends battling addiction, always able to celebrate their successes with recovery, as he continued to battle his own. 

As friends, family, and loved ones gather to celebrate Jason's life—a celebration to be held in Colorado in early 2025—they will share stories that reflect the laughter and love he brought into their lives. Those memories will live on, creating a tapestry of remembrance that will forever honor Jason’s spirit. His family expresses heartfelt gratitude to all his friends who were part of his journey to recovery, standing by him in both light and darkness, serving not only as friends but also as a village of unwavering support and love in his darkest moments.

In this sorrowful time, we commemorate a loving soul who sought better for himself and his family. Jason's legacy will continue through the stories shared and the love felt in the hearts of those he touched, particularly his beloved son, Jacob. May Jason rest in peace, knowing he was deeply loved and will never be forgotten.  

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In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation for his son Jacob's college fund.  Donations can be made through Venmo (@theresa-snelling). A Go Fund Me page has been set up: VISIT:   https://gofund.me/c5a1057f  

All donations will go to Jacob's college fund. 

THANK YOU! Theresa and Al ask you to sign the guestbook to remind them of the friends and family who supported Jason as well as his family.