John Snelgrove

(From Parker Mortuary)

John Crosson Snelgrove Jr., affectionately known as John or Johnny, passed away on November 3, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 68. Born on June 17, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, to Dorothy (née Smurdon) and John Snelgrove Sr. John lived a life defined by adventure, passion, generosity, hard work, and an unapologetic commitment to being exactly who he was.

John was a man of extraordinary presence. Dynamic, determined, creative, and genuine, he had a wild sense of humor and an unmistakable zest for life. He did nothing halfway. He was a force of nature, leaving an indelible impression on everyone who crossed his path.

At just 17 years old, John enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served as a boom operator aboard KC-135 aircraft and completed SERE-C training, a significant accomplishment. He was the youngest boom operator in the history of the U.S. Air Force at the time of his enlistment. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from California State University, Bakersfield.

An intrepid entrepreneur, John co-founded and led BostonPacific, a construction company that continues to operate successfully today. Yet his greatest vocational passions were found in the land. In his 40s, he ventured into almond farming, and in his 60s, he started cattle ranching, all alongside his fierce, brilliant, and highly skilled bride, Carla Snelgrove (née Castner). He sometimes jokingly referred to himself as a "grass farmer," recognizing that raising and breeding cattle required as much dedication to growing pasture as to the animals themselves. His ranches were places of profound joy, reflection, and connection to the natural world.

John created employment and opportunity for countless people over the decades, often giving young people their very first jobs. He was also a steadfast supporter of local fundraisers, schools, Future Farmers of America, veterans, and youth organizations. He was a member of the Elks, Freemasonry, Loyal of Moose, and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and enjoyed membership through Boeger, Boegel, Conn, Crystal Basin Cellars, Del Dotto, Ghost Horse, Lavacap, Sarah Francis, and St. Supéry wine clubs.

Perhaps John's greatest accomplishment was the life he built and the family he adored. He was tremendously proud of his wife, children, and grandchildren, and loved each of them for exactly who they uniquely were. He instilled in his family the importance of working hard, laughing often, loving deeply, and never forgetting to slow down and enjoy the beauty of being alive.

John was a dedicated husband to Carla, the love of his life and his partner in every adventure. Finding her was among life's greatest gifts, though he always wished it had happened sooner. Together, they built a life filled with spontaneous Harley-Davidson rides, ranching, travelling, fine dining and wining, and unforgettable celebrations. They were legendary hosts, particularly at their elaborate Halloween parties, creating magical and meticulously planned experiences. Their love was a partnership marked by shared passions, boundless creativity, and unyielding devotion.

John was a true epicurean. He appreciated things of great quality both simple and ornate, enjoying small-town diners and elegant restaurants alike. For John, enjoying something was never enough; he wanted everyone around him to experience the same joy and delight he did. He loved fishing, the outdoors, cowboy culture and the Wild West, riding his Harley with Carla, ghost hunts, good music, and fine wines and whiskies. He fulfilled lifelong dreams of riding a bull, traveling the world, and building a log cabin on land he lovingly stewarded.

Some of his most cherished moments were the quiet ones spent at his ranches, watching the trees, water, cattle, and deer, listening to the birds, and taking in the beauty of the land. He and Carla treasured their "Sunset Corner," where they would pause together to watch the sun go down at the end of the workday.

John's enormous, mischievous sense of humor was central to who he was. He kept everyone on their toes with wild pranks and captivating stories, whether recounting an encounter with a ghost or a brush with a celebrity. His laughter, antics, and larger-than-life spirit brought an unmistakable energy to every room.

John had a profound love of God and country, and a fervent devotion to the people and pursuits he cared about. He leaves behind a legacy of authenticity, generosity, grit, gumption, and love. His family and friends will remember him for his humor, his bold spirit, and his unwavering willingness to show up for others through the good times and bad. He taught those around him that life is meant to be lived fully, that joy is meant to be shared, and that being true to oneself is among life's greatest virtues. His absence leaves an enormous and deeply felt void, but the lessons he imparted and the memories he created will endure for generations.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Carla; his daughters Candice Burrow (Jimmy Burrow), Melissa Snelgrove, Jillian Bennett (Ryan Bennett), Sarah Strand (James Strand), and Lorelei Harris (Andrew Harris); his bonus daughter Victoria Caring (Kyle Caring); his bonus son Ryan Werking (Danielle Werking); his sister Dawn Snelgrove; his grandchildren Aaliyah, Larry, Carolina, Mikayla, Alexis, Jerron, Preston, Lucas, John, Deckard, Isla, Esslyn, and Lily; and his great-grandchildren Scoot, Gator, Jaxsyn, Tidus, Mia, Rohen, Grayson, Elijah, and Brynlee. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Vonda Castner, and many extended family members and dear friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and John Snelgrove Sr.; his brother, Tom Snelgrove; his granddaughter, Vanessa; and his father-in-law, Ellis Castner.

For over a decade, John waged a fierce battle against cancer, fighting like hell to remain in the world he loved. Time and again, he defied the odds and bewildered doctors, embodying the fierce determination and unyielding spirit behind one of his favorite sayings: Never Say Die.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of John Snelgrove to:

Montezuma Lodge 172 Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) 111 West A Street Dixon, CA 95620

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.