Max Edward "Mick" Snook Jr.

1942 - 2026

Max 'Mick' Edward Snook, Jr.
Born: July 22, 1942 in Dixon, IL
Died: January 3, 2026 in Dixon, IL
Max "Mick" Edward Snook, Jr., 83, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center on January 3rd, 2026. He left this world the same way he lived in it - loved deeply, respected greatly, and never alone.
Max was a proud father, grandfather, GG, and a Vietnam War veteran. He honorably served his country as part of the 4th Battalion, Mechanized 23rd Infantry from 1967 to 1968. His time in service shaped him in quiet but powerful ways, instilling in him a strength and discipline that carried through every chapter of his life. Max's dedication to service did not end when he left the military. He remained a lifelong advocate for veterans and his community, serving as Commander of local VFW Post 8455 for more than 35 years. Under his leadership, the post became a place of strength, support, and brotherhood. Max was honored with the District Commander of the Year award, a distinction made even more meaningful by family legacy, as his father had earned the same honor before him. Together, they became the only father-and-son duo to have ever received this award, a testament to their shared commitment to service.
After returning home from the war, Max built a life rooted in hard work and perseverance. He worked as a cement finisher for decades, continuing until just this past year. He took immense pride in his work and believed strongly in earning what you have. That work ethic became one of his greatest legacies, something he instilled in his children, grandchildren, and the many people he mentored along the way.
When he wasn't working or serving others, Max found his greatest peace outdoors. He loved fishing and spending long days along the Rock River, where life felt simple. It was there that his family made some of their fondest memories with him.
Above all else, Max loved his family. Max will be remembered for his strength, his loyalty, his humor, and his devotion to his family. His life was one of service, to his country and his family. His legacy will continue through the lives he shaped and the values he passed on.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Betty; his father, Max Snook, Sr.; his brother, Lynn Snook; and his beloved wife, Judy.
He is survived by his siblings, Lynda (John) Foxley and Barbara Jo Kittoe; children, Julie (Mark) Young and Mindy (Mike) Ditzler; grandchildren, Holly (Mike) Smith, Kennedi (Derek) Ports, Kassidi (Brian) Diaz, Ethan Ditzler, and Jesse Ditzler; great-grandchildren, Marcus and Isaiah Shover, Vivian and Lukas Diaz, and Grace and Emma Smith; as well as many dear friends, fellow veterans, and all whose lives he touched. We would also like to express our gratitude to his sister-in-law, Debbie (David) Flannery, for her time, care, and support.
A visitation will be held from 9:00 am - 11:00 am on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Preston-Schilling Funeral Home in Dixon. A graveside service with military honors will be immediately to follow at Grand Detour Cemetery in Grand Detour, IL, with Master Sergeant Becky Davis, USAF (Retired), officiating. There will be a luncheon to follow at Polo Area Senior Center in Polo, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Polo Lifeline Food Pantry, per Mick's wishes.
Arrangements were completed by Preston-Schilling Funeral Home in Dixon.
Condolences may be sent to www.prestonschilling.com.