James "Jim" F. Snizek

After a brave fight, James "Jim" F. Snizek, departed this life on December 2, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. Born on September 18, 1958, in Springfield, MA, Jim's remarkable journey of 66 years touched many lives with warmth, dedication, and enduring love.

Family was the cornerstone of Jim's existence. Married to Michele M. (Lapierre), he was the devoted father to Jacob "Jake" Snizek and partner Deveron Owens, and Nicole "Nikki" Snizek, her wife Monica Fowler, his cherished grandsons, Adrian and Emmett Snizek and his beloved dog Beau. Jim was the son of the late Chester S. and Ruth C. (Leszczynski) Snizek. Jim's also leaves his sister, Janet Jolivet and her husband William; he was predeceased by his brother David.

Growing up in Chicopee, Jim embraced a lifelong passion for science, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from the University of New England, where he became a certified scuba diver. His career path led him to Yankee Candle, where he worked for 25 years in various departments before he retired in 2023.

A man of varied interests and talents, Jim reveled in weekly golf games with his friends, playing cards, watching movies, relaxing outdoors by the fire, eating polish food and anything chocolate. He enjoyed kayaking on the Swift River, beach time at Cape Cod and Gloucester and family vacation trips. An avid New England sports fan, Jim embraced the highs and lows of his beloved Red Sox with unwavering enthusiasm, followed closely by his love of Patriots football. Jim's knack for fixing things with his "MacGyver" skills was legendary among family and friends and he was the guy friends called upon for demolition help. He loved listening to the Beatles, the Doors and Elton John and was always in pursuit of new music to add to his playlist. He is fondly remembered by his sisters-in-law Lisa and Dawn, brother-in-law David, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

A gathering of family and friends to honor Jim's life will be held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, with words of remembrance shared at 11:30 am at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that donations be made in Jim's memory to River Valley Counseling Center Inc. or the Belchertown Council on Aging Nutrition Program, causes close to his heart.

Michele, Nikki and Jake wish to thank family and friends who provided meals, visits and caregiver breaks during his hospice care at home. A special thank you to Dr. Jeffrey Cossin and the care teams of the D'Amour Cancer Center, Baystate Hospice and River Valley Counseling Center for their support of Jim and his family.