Martin Snoap ’72

Martin “Marty” Snoap was a lover of life and eternally young at heart. He passed peacefully from this life on January 19, 2024, and will be remembered by all who knew him for his easy laughter, generous nature and caring spirit. Marty retired from Lakewood Public schools, Lake Odessa, MI, where he was a positive influence on the thousands of students who passed through his classroom and played on his boys’ and girls’ tennis teams. In 2016, he led the girls’ Vikings to its third state tournament and was named LSJ Girls’ Tennis Coach of the Year. An active member of St. Mark’s Episcopal church, he sang in the choir and served on the vestry committee. He also enjoyed singing with the Lakewood Choral Society in Lake Odessa for many years. Marty was a native of Grand Rapids. He was the star basketball player and a graduate of Godwin High School Class of 1968. He continued his education at Hope College, where he enjoyed a successful career playing prep baseball and breaking records in basketball. He was also a fan and supporter of Michigan State University, and enjoyed cheering on his Detroit Tigers and Lions every season. Above all, Marty’s favorite pastime was devoting his love and energy to time with family and friends. As a loving husband, he attended to the details both large and small of keeping his marriage strong and making sure Beverly always knew she was loved. A caring father, he was always present for his children, especially through the fun activities and entertainment he organized for them on the weekends. Ever protective, he supported and held his kids up: from teaching the skill of roller skating to a young daughter to being the ever-present cheerleader and number one fan at both local and out-of-state tennis matches for his son. Always a giver, when the need arose whether for time or financial support, Marty was the first on the scene for all his loved ones. Trips to his beloved Disney World with his grandkids brought him as much joy as it did the children. An adventurer, he was an avid hiker and traveler and enjoyed sharing these passions with the ones he loved most. A dancer, a singer, a jokester, a story-teller, his never-ending kindness and energy for life continued through his last days and will continue to bless those who were lucky enough to be a part of Marty’s story. Marty will be lovingly remembered by his love and companion for many years, Julie “Texer” Courtney; daughter, Carrie (Keith) Parlin; son, Christopher Snoap; grandchildren, Kristopher, Caleb, Connor, Austin, Aubrey, Alexa; brother, Dana (Nancy) Snoap; sisters, Linda Hawkins, Cherie (Ray) Snoap-Andrakowicz, Leslie Snoap; many beloved nieces, nephews, and close friends. He was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and wife of 40 years, Beverly; and his parents, Elmer and Lois Snoap.