Charles Snelling
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Charles “Steve” Snelling of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully at St. Luke’s East Hospital on June 25, 2020, at the age of 68. Steve fought a long and hard battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. After many complications, he decided it was time for his signature move, the “Snelldog Shuffle”, for the last time and exited this world to join his parents, sister, and many other friends and loved ones in Heaven. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Steve was the first child for Charles (aka “Chuck”) and Dorothy Snelling and was born on April 21, 1952. The couple later welcomed four more children: Brenda Prettyman, Stan Snelling, Lisa Roark, and Brian Snelling.
Many may remember him from his time at Raytown High School where he was known for his skills on and off the basketball court, and his speed on the track. After graduating in 1970, he went to Graceland College.
Steve had a gift with words and used that skill as Sales Manager and Director of Community Events and Festivals at North Kansas City Beverage, where he sold Anheuser-Busch products for 33 years. He was known to many around town as “The Beer Man” or “Snelldog!” Although there were many perks to being in the beer business, like sporting events, concerts, and endless hours on the golf course, he much preferred spending time with his family or kicking back in his easy chair. If you have ever enjoyed an ice cold Budweiser in the KC area, you can probably thank Steve for helping get it into your hand!
In 1984, he welcomed his one and only child, Stephanie, into this world. She was his sidekick everywhere he went, and many wonderful memories were made – whether on the back of his Harley Davidson, taking the back roads wherever he went, or going to the arcade, to name a just few. In 2012, he welcomed William Ellsworth as his son-in-law, but it was in 2013 and 2016 that the two most important people blessed his life: Steve’s grandchildren, Zachary and Addison Ellsworth. They were the apple of his eye. Being a kid at heart allowed him to connect with his grandchildren, and all of his nieces and nephews, to form an unforgettable bond.
Steve was loved by so many people and will be missed daily. He has left a void in all of our hearts. He left a very strong impression on everyone who knew him, and you couldn’t help but love and appreciate him.
Steve was a good man, who adored his family and treasured his many friendships. Steve and I reconnected, in his words, as grown men, after our high school basketball years. Always enjoyed one another’s company. I will miss Steve but I will always remember our good experiences. Peace be with your family at this time.