Robert Snell

February 20, 1950 – August 3, 2026

Robert Snell passed away on August 3, 2026, at the age of 76. He leaves behind a life remembered for his love of the outdoors, lifelong learning, family, friends, and the many communities that enriched his life.

Robert was born in Nottingham, England, on February 20, 1950. In 1957, at the age of seven, he came to the United States with his family, traveling across the Atlantic aboard the RMS Queen Mary. After arriving in the United States, Robert and his family lived in Gardena and then Loomis before settling in Oakdale, where he graduated from Oakdale High School.

At the age of 13, Robert returned to England, reconnecting with the country where he was born. In 1977, he made another trip to England with his wife and daughter, creating memories that remained meaningful throughout his life.

Robert married Donna Macsenti on February 13, 1971. They later divorced on February 13, 1984, but Donna remained an important and cherished part of Robert’s life.

After graduating from high school, Robert continued his education, earning an Associate of Arts degree in Civil Engineering from Modesto Junior College. He began a 37-year career with the City of Modesto, where he served as a Senior Construction Inspector. He retired in 2007 to care for his mother, Ruby, who was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

Throughout his adult life, Robert made his home in several California communities. He lived in Modesto from 1971 to 1977, Oakdale from 1977 to 1983, Modesto again from 1983 to 2023, and Clovis from 2023 until his passing.

Robert’s love of nature was an important part of his life. He was an active member of the Stanislaus Fly Fishermen, Oddfellows, Trout Unlimited, and the Sierra Club. He especially enjoyed backpacking, fly fishing, and tying his own flies. He also found great pleasure in gardening, music, reading, and exploring Eastern and Native American religions and traditions.

Family and friends were at the heart of Robert’s life. He is survived by his ex-wife, Donna Snell of Twain Harte; his daughter, Jennifer Shelton of Meeker, Oklahoma; his daughter Courtney Murchison of Clovis; grandson Jason Hurtado of Twain Harte; granddaughter Madelynn Snell of Clovis; and his sister, Sharon Guy of Louisville, Kentucky.

He was preceded in death by his father, Denis J. Snell; his mother, Ruby Snell; and his brother, Andrew Snell.

Robert will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather and an enthusiastic lover of the great outdoors. His curiosity, appreciation for nature, many interests, and genuine love for family and friends made him a special presence in the lives of those who knew him.

A Celebration of Life for close friends and family will be held at a later date.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.