Burt Lee Snodgrass Obituary (1939

You must have heard mom calling your name and decided she needed you more than us. It's okay dad, we get it, we just weren't prepared for you to leave us so soon. Our 'rock,' Bert Lee Snodgrass was taken suddenly on January 18, 2013. He was born on July 24, 1939, to Chester and Dorothy Snodgrass. Dad was raised in Selah, Washington. He graduated from Selah High School in 1957 and never took a book home to study with. Love came fast and furious when he met his soul mate and eternal partner, Leona, shortly after graduation. They were wed on November 21, 1959. Their endless love produced five children who were his pride and joy. Dad and mom shared wedded bliss for over 52 years, before she was called to heaven on September 5, 2012. In his younger years, dad worked for Boeing in Seattle but he couldn't tolerate the big city life. After a few short years he found his way back to his hometown and became employed at Dowty Decoto, where he remained until his retirement in 1994. After the birth of his twins he returned to the home where he was raised, and has remained until now. Dad was a tough ol' billy goat on the exterior, but anyone who really knew him could see right through that. Family was his biggest treasure and until his dying day he instilled that in all of his children. Life wasn't about money or material things. Life was about living, giving, caring and sharing. One of his favorite sayings was, 'Every day is a good day, some are better than others.' He shared his love of the outdoors by taking his children on countless camping trips. He and mom cherished their trips to both Hawaii and Alaska. A true outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing with a passion. Several years ago he proudly got himself a personalized license plate that says, 'LUV2PAK.' One of his most talked about events was building the 'High Lonesome,' a deer camp near Milk Creek where he and his son Shane erected an extravagant shelter filled with many luxuries of a home. This became well known to many hunters and was documented by a ledger he left for guests to leave notes. It was devastating when the forest service caught on to his shenanigans and made him tear it down. Another amazing feat he conquered was to hike to the top of Mount Adams at the age of 57. Dad was a great philosopher, especially when he had a few 'snorts of hooch.' He would give his two cents about any topic and was sought out for advice regularly. (Sorry that Mayan calendar thing, that you were so adamant about, didn't pan out for you dad)! His love for his children and grandchildren was evident every day of every year. He was so proud of everything they accomplished and loved attending any of their sporting events, dance recitals, school activities, or building projects. Bert is survived by 5 children, Kerry (Glennda) Snodgrass, Rena LaTour, Shane (Renee') Snodgrass, Tammy Starnes and Tiffany Garcia, brother, Roy Snodgrass; also, twelve grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and his constant companion since the loss of his wife, his little dog Ricco. He was preceded in death by his adoring wife Leona, his parents, Chester and Dorothy Snodgrass, brothers Larry and Lyle, and sister Gaye. At dad's request, there will be no funeral or memorial service. The children and grandchildren will be taking him on a trip to the high mountains at a later date. Give mom a kiss and hug for us. Rest assured that you taught us well and we will carry on all of the family traditions that were so important to you. Dad, you will be forever missed.