David J. Sneed

David J. Sneed, 59, of San Luis Obispo passed away on Monday, May 29, 2017. He was born on June 4, 1957, in Whittier, California, to John and Marjorie Sneed (nee Kuhn). David was a fourth generation Californian, growing up in Glendale, California. Upon graduation from University of the Pacific in 1980, he entered the U.S. Navy, completing Officer Candidate School in February 1981 and Surface Warfare Officer School in April 1981. Dave served in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean as Engineering Officer aboard the Fast Frigate USS Roark, receiving a commendation for leadership and management. After naval service he pursued his love of writing and began his 30-year career as a journalist, starting at the Lake County Examiner in Lakeview, Oregon. After several years he moved to the Grass Valley Union in Northern California. In 1997 Dave found a home at the San Luis Obispo Tribune. Dave wrote for The Tribune for 20 years, covering the environment and major county issues, ranging from the Paso Robles groundwater crisis to seismic and safety concerns at Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant. He was known for his keen analysis and ability to explain complex issues in clear, straightforward language. While at the Tribune, Dave won several state, regional and national awards for his work including being part of a team that won his parent company McClatchy's highest journalism award, the President's Award. In addition, he was twice nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for his reporting on environmental issues. Dave was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his sister, Karen Scott, of San Antonio, Texas; brother, Robert Sneed, of Cedar Hills, Utah; his stepmother Mary Hill of Cambria, California; stepbrothers Edward and Paul Ackerman; and stepsister Lisa Slaton, as well as several nieces and a nephew. A memorial celebration of Dave's life for friends and family is planned for late July. Sign his guestbook at sanluisobispo.com/obituaries