Mike Snarr

Michael “Mike” Shawn Snarr, 71, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away February 28, 2025, at Teton Healthcare of Cascadia.

Mike was born September 28, 1953, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Vernal E. Snarr and Frances Detton Snarr. He grew up in Idaho Falls and attended school in Idaho Falls, Roberts, and Shelley, Idaho.

In 1974, he married Barbara Esplin, and together they had two children, Jonathan Wade and Wendy LeAnn. In 1993, he married Kathrin “Kathi” Schvaneveldt and gained three daughters, Katie Lee, Amie, and Bobbie Sue. Later in life, he met his companion, Karen Grandpre, who he was with until her passing in October 2024.

Mike worked at various different jobs in the area over the years. He was passionate and took pride in his work performance farming, logging, trucking, and welding. He enjoyed camping, riding motorcycles, working on cars, and anything that took him outdoors. Mike had a love for fishing and a sixth sense for all the best fishing holes, no matter the weather conditions. He had many fun stories to share about his experiences. He loved joking and had a natural talent of making everyone around him laugh. His catch phrases were “gotcha!” and “right on!” He was sincere and filled with gratitude. When he told you thank you or he loved you, you knew without a doubt he meant it.

One of Mike’s favorite places was Island Park. There he spent so much time logging, camping, and fishing with his family and friends. It held a special place in his heart and created so many beloved memories for him and his loved ones to look back on.

Mike is survived by his children, Jonathan Wade (Lori) Snarr of Salem, UT, Wendy LeAnn (Nathan) Rettke of Tacoma, WA, Katie Lee (John) Bekkering of Fremont, NE, Amie (Chris) Gosnell of Idaho Falls, ID, Bobbie Sue (Robert) Leija of Idaho Falls, ID; and his four-legged companion, Joey.  Mike was a grandfather to fourteen grandchildren.

He is survived by his three sisters and two brothers, Carol Linn (Vern) Johnson of Ashton, ID, Connie (Joe) Somerville of Ammon, ID, Shirley Jenkins of Rexburg, ID, Daniel Kreg (Marianne) Snarr of Rigby, ID, and Kevin Snarr of Mountain Home, ID.

In honoring Mike’s request, a “Celebration of Life” will be held in Island Park later this year.