John Walter Snitko

John Walter Snitko, 87, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and a freezer full of leftovers.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Geraldine (Jeri), whom he lovingly referred to as his "hobby" and life’s purpose. Their love story began when he showed up on their first date with a bag of groceries, ensuring she never went hungry—a gesture that set the tone for their life together.

He is also survived by his children: Michael Snitko (Janie), Wendy King (James), Deanna Snitko, and Christine Snitko Bates. He joins in heaven his son, John Michael Snitko (Jill), and his Mother, Valaria "Lena" [Snitko] Glaza.

John's pride and joy was his favorite (and only) grandson, Tristen, of whom he never tired of bragging. He was lucky to gain grandchildren and great grandchildren through Mike’s marriage to Janie (Sherri [Courtney & Bobby], Billy; and Wendy’s marriage to Jim (Serica, [Lucy & Hudson], Jordan, Cullen [Katherine & Emma]). 

Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, John made his way to the U.S. as a teen. He spent his early years as a traveling salesman for companies like Alberto-Culver and Revlon. He later was the owner of The Onion Patch antique stores before starting another business, Micro-Management Controls, which paved the way to his his true calling as a crime analyst with the Indianapolis Police Department. He had an uncanny knack for digging up information (sometimes more than anyone wanted), and his dedication to helping solve cases was unmatched. If "tenacious" had a picture in the dictionary, it would be of John with his magnifying glass (and slew of calculators). 

He expressed his deep love for his family in practical ways— making sure they were dressed warm enough, that their cars had gas, their bills were paid, and most notably through unsolicited personal deliveries of Costco goods, from bulk toilet paper to giant tubs of ice cream. He always said, "This will last you for a while," which was his way of saying, "I love you."

John leaves behind a legacy of love, paper, dad jokes, and the knowledge that you can never have too many groceries. In his honor, the family suggests you hug your loved ones—and maybe swing by Costco on the way.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 2 PM to 5 PM at the West 86th Street Clubhouse, 6652 Residence Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46278. A brief service and dove release will take place at 4 PM.