Martin F. Snella

On Dec. 20, 2018, at 75, Marty Snella left this world, surrounded by his family, to sing on with the choirs of angels.

Marty was born in Shamokin, Pa., on May 30, 1943, to Francis "Frank" Xavier Snella and Edna Mae McGinnes Snella.

He was married to the former Jean V. Kopko, who survives. They were married Oct. 5, 1980, and celebrated 38 years of marriage.

Marty received his bachelors degree in special education from Bloomsburg University and his masters degree in special education from Mansfield University. He served the special needs community for over 40 years beginning his teaching career at Roosevelt Junior High School, and then as the principal of the former School of Hope and Hope Enterprises. Later, he managed educational programs for the BLaST Intermediate Unit No. 17 and the CSIU Intermediate Unit No. 16 until his retirement.

In addition to his wife, Jean, he is survived by his children, Martin Snella Jr., of Williamsport, Michelle Smeal (Daniel), of Frenchville, Pa., and Jason Stilwell (Eva), of Ithaca, N.Y.; and 5 grandchildren, Caroline Engel, Howard Engel, Isaiah Smeal, Lexi Finney and Andrea Payton.

Marty was an excellent dancer who was rarely seen without a hat on his head. He was the ultimate tinkerer and enjoyed building and fixing things. He loved spontaneous road trips, model trains, New York sharp cheese and a good ale. Every year, he loved telling everyone that there was a parade for his birthday (Memorial Day) and it was only fitting that one of the last songs he sang to his family was, "The Band Played On."

Marty was a member of Saint Boniface Catholic Church and was a member of the church choir since 1965. He also was a member and past president of Gesang Verein Harmonia German Singing Club. In addition, he belonged to the Susquehannocks 4-Wheelers Club, The Red Rock Society and the Polish Club.

Marty was well known and loved for his dedication to, and advocacy for, the special needs community. His passion was always about helping people, especially children, to thrive and learn. Marty brought a smile to everyone that knew him and he will be missed beyond words.

Sing on dear Marty, Dad and Grandpa… sing on…

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Dec. 27 at 10a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church, 326 Washington Blvd., Williamsport. Visitation will be held on Dec. 27 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass at St. Boniface.

Arrangements are entrusted to Crouse Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Williamsport.
Committal  will be at Wildwood Cemetery.
Please send condolences to www.crousefuneralhome.com .