Robert A. Sniezek

Robert A. Sniezek Sr., 89, of Kansas City MO passed away peacefully on Sept 15, 2014, surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness. Robert was born Sept 17, 1924 to Julius and Martha (Hilbert) Sniezek in the Dutch Hill section of Kansas City. His parents emigrated from Bukovina, Austria and he was raised speaking German. His schooling began at St. James Grade School, where he needed to learn English and to use his right hand, as they refused to allow him to use his predominate left hand to write. He graduated from Paseo High School in 1942. At age 17, he enlisted in the Navy and served in the North Atlantic and the South Pacific. Robert earned the rank of Quartermaster 2nd Class with a specialty in Celestial Navigation. After the war, he enrolled at Kansas City University and graduated in 1950 with a Law Degree. While at the University he became interested in politics, and was a staunch democrat to the end. His passion in life was fighting for those who couldn't fight for themselves, advocating for the repressed, and helping those that were in need. Literally, he would give someone the coat off his back. Robert was an avid supporter of President John F. Kennedy and a trusted advisor to 5th District Congressman Richard Bolling and Governor Joseph Teasdale. Practicing law in Kansas City for over 60 years, he was associated with many respected local lawyers during his career including Harold Fridkin, Selden Jones, Leonard Hughes, Jr., and Roger Staab.

In 1955 he married the true love of his life, Mary Ann Georgie, and this love affair lasted for 59 years. Robert was an exceptional role model for his two children, where they were in awe of his need to always do the right thing for those around him, his constant fairness and respect for all people. He was a superb story teller and as grandchildren came along, they became a very significant part of his life. Known as PaPa, he celebrated each grandchild's birthday annually and passed his wisdom through personal letters. Often, no matter the season, he wore a sweatshirt embroidered with their names.

Robert will always be remembered as the man at the podium, the consummate storyteller, the life of the party and a model of humanity. He was a wise and generous man and, for all who knew and loved him, will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann (Georgie) Sniezek ; parents, Julius and Martha (Hilbert) Sniezek; sisters, Josephine Holcomb, Mary Smith; brother, Carl Sniezek. He is survived by sisters, Ann Collins, Dorothy Smith, both of Texas; daughter, Carol Mendenhall and husband Steve; son, Robert A. Sniezek, Jr. and wife Brenda (Boatright); nine grandchildren, Steven, Jennifer, Joseph and Daniel Mendenhall; Madeline, Mary, Robert Henry, Martha and Helen Sniezek.

Cremation rites were accorded. Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 20 at St. Thomas More Church, 11822 Holmes Rd, KCMO; followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to St. Thomas More/Guatemala c/o Phil Smith or Seton Center.