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JAMES (JIM) SNELL
Born: Aug 01, 1954
Date of Passing: Sep 28, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJAMES (JIM) SNELL
James "Jim" Snell, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away suddenly on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on August 1, 1954, Jim was a devoted husband to Irene, a cherished father to his sons, Jake, Jon, Geoff, Anthony, and Aaron, and a loving grandfather to Billy, Jeremy, Raelynn, Julie, Joseph and Rebecca.
Jim grew up in Winnipeg in the Grant Park neighbourhood as the eldest of four siblings; Leslie (deceased), Don, and Barb. He graduated the University of Manitoba with a Batchelor of Commerce in 1976, joined the Society of Actuaries shortly thereafter, and held a long and meaningful career at The Great West Life Assurance Company from 1977 to 2012.
Jim's passion for life was evident in everything he did. He was an ardent fan of the Boston Red Sox, a sport he followed with unwavering enthusiasm. His love for curling and bridge brought him joy and camaraderie. Kayaking on the Assiniboine River and at Luther Village Camp on Dogtooth Lake brought him peace. Sharing music with others brought him closer to his community, with his participation and volunteerism at numerous community bands, and broadcasting to the air waves on CJNU radio station.
Jim's family was the centre of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, as a kind, generous, and loving man. He had a strong mind for numbers, and a heart even brighter that shone through his actions more than words. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jim strived to leave the world a better place than what he found through consistent green and eco-friendly initiatives and volunteerism. In lieu of flowers, donations in memoriam can be made to Luther Village Camp to further his legacy of community building and service. Alternatively, a donation to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
A service celebrating Jim's life will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026 at 11:00 am at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 637 Buckingham Road, Winnipeg.
A Live stream will be available on
Gloria Dei's youtube channel: www.youtube.com/gloriadeiwinnipeg
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 10, 2026
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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Irene and boys, I am so sorry to hear about Jim's passing. He was my first manager at GWL when I started in 1986. My sincere condolences Irene. I am so very sorry. - Posted by: Teresa Negrich (Worked with Jim) on: Oct 17, 2026
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So sorry to hear of the passing of Jim. Sincerely condolences to Irene and her family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. 🙏 🙏 🙏 - Posted by: Donna Hoeppner (Friend) on: Oct 16, 2026
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I was so sad to hear of Jim's passing. I was fortunate to know Jim through my work with the New Horizons Band. He was a very fine musician, a spectacular treasurer for our Board of Directors, and an all-around interesting, hilarious, compassionate, hard-working, and caring human being. My sincere condolences to his family; sending you all love and strength at this difficult time. - Posted by: Alena Arnason (Friend/Musician) on: Oct 16, 2026
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Auntie Irene, Jake, Jon, Geoffrey, Anthony and Aaron I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a kind and welcoming man. I remember clearly visiting your house one Christmas (or New Years) and Jim showing us a school book he had found while sorting books for the Children's Hospital Book Sale. He had recognized the name written inside during the 1930's as my Grandfather's and brought it to show his daughters (who immediately recognized the handwriting). It was in fact my Grandfather's school book from when he was sixteen and it was such a thoughtful and kind thing for Jim to do. We are thinking of you all - Posted by: Sarah B. (Extended Family) on: Oct 13, 2026
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Irene, Jake, Jon, Geoff, Anthony, and Aaron, we were saddened to hear the news of your husband and dad’s passing. Our hearts go out to you all. We hope you find strength and comfort during this difficult time. - Posted by: Kris Gatta (Acquaintance) on: Oct 12, 2026
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Sorry to hear this new. Sending condolences and healing prayers to all the Snell family and friends. Sending hugs and love to Barb and Chuck and family you are in my thoughts. 🙏Many wonderful memories of my youth with the Snell family - Posted by: Julie Gilmore (Hayhurst ) (Family friend) on: Oct 12, 2026
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Jim was a great band mate. He sat beside me in the Westwood Concert Band. His quiet appreciation of the music and great playing was admirable. Miss you Jim. - Posted by: Rick Sellwood (Friend) on: Oct 10, 2026
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Irene, please accept my condolences on Jim's passing. Hugs and Prayers to you and the family. - Posted by: Barb K (friend) on: Oct 10, 2026
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Rest well my old friend. Remember Lindsay field, fungo games, penny poker, Birds Hill camping and the wine snowbanks, speed crosswords, playing the boards in ball hockey and all of the other gifts we have shared. - Posted by: jeff P. (Old friend) on: Oct 10, 2026