Emerald ("Em") James Snay

April 29, 1931 - January 6, 2025

Em passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, after a long & fulfilling 93 years of life filled with hard work and a lot of love.

Em was born on April 29, 1931, in Lincoln Park, Michigan to Ora & Ivy (Kuhn) Snay. They were of French & German descent. He was one of 5 children.

Em's hardworking nature started from an early age when he washed windows at a drugstore at the age of 6 and worked his own paper route in grade school. Like many men of his generation, Em was drafted in the Army to serve his country. Before entering the Korean War, Em married Elia (Straccia) Snay, the "prettiest girl in town" & love of his life. They celebrated their 73rd anniversary in May of 2024. Together, Em & Elia Snay were lifetime residents of Lincoln Park, Michigan and they welcomed four children together. After his time in the military, Em worked in the dairy industry where he held various roles, including engineer. Em was also involved in the community by being a leader for the Boy Scouts of America and a 32nd degree freemason, later becoming a Shriner. He was a member of the Lincoln Park Masonic Lodge and the American Legion 217. He loved to play bocce ball, took pride in their beautiful yard, and loved to spend time with his large family. He also loved classic American cars, especially his 1957 Oldsmobile you would find him driving in the Downriver Cruise. He loved to fish in search of that perfect Walleye, and you would often see him donning his favorite ascot hat.

Em is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and their daughter, Lori Ann, who passed away at 2 years old. Em was a beloved husband of Elia (Straccia) Snay. He was the dear father of Rick Snay (Brenda), Lori Ann Snay, Randy Snay (Traci), and Nanette (Snay) Sharpe (Rick).  He was grandfather to 9, and great-grandfather to 10. His family will cherish the memories of him.

A Memorial Gathering will be held from 4:00-8:00 pm on Saturday, February 1, 2025 with a Masonic Service at 6:30pm and the Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 noon on Sunday, February 2nd, 2025. All services will be located at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home and Cremation Services 3880 Fort Street, Lincoln Park, MI 48146.

The family suggests donations to American Legion Post #217 located at 2817 Van Alstyne, Wyandotte, MI 49192.