Ralph E. "Jim" Snelson

Warren, Ohio - Ralph E "Jim" Snelson , 80, died Friday, April 29, 2016 at Lake Vista of Cortland after a long illness. He was born on May 13, 1935 in Warren, the son of the late Dr, Ralph "Snick" and Anne Lewis Snelson.

Jim was a local dentist with Snelson & Snelson. He had partnered first with his father, Dr. Ralph A "Snick" Snelson and then later with his son, Dr Lee Snelson, who continues the family practice. He graduated from DePauw University, Greencastle, Ind. and in 1961 he earned his Doctorate of Dental Science from The Ohio State College of Dentistry.

Memories of Jim will be carried on by wife, Diane Woodward Snelson of Howland, sons, Dr. Lee (Angela) Snelson of Howland and Dr. Mark (Suzanne) Snelson of Gates Mills, OH, brother, Lynn A. Snelson of Cortland, and grandsons, Zachary Snelson, Colin Snelson, Dean Snelson

Dr. Snelson has been very involved with his professional and civic organizations throughout his career. He served as President of the Corydon Palmer Dental Society and in 1993 he served as President of the Ohio Dental Association. Reflective on Jim's enthusiasm of life, was his slogan during his presidency "Foreword Ever, Backward Never."

He was awarded the Ohio Dental Association's, Distinguished Dentist Award in 2002 and their Achievement Award in 2015. He served on the American and Ohio Dental Political Action Committees as well as other task forces. He always demonstrated his passion and energy for the betterment of his profession and the community that he loved.

Dr. Snelson's other professional organizational affiliations include the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists, Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the Academy of Dentist International.

Giving back to his community was a lifestyle of Jim's for which he has been honored. He was awarded the Silver Beaver Award for his efforts with the Boy Scouts of America, named Warren's Community Star by the Warren Tribune Chronicle and Trumbull 100 that recognizes volunteers who go above and beyond to serve the community. He was elected into the Warren G. Harding's Hall of Fame.

His community commitment was just as impressive. They include organizations like Trumbull Lifelines, Trumbull Memorial Hospital Foundation Board, Christ Episcopal Foundation Board, and Past President of the Trumbull 100. He served as chairman of the United Way Campaign, Boy Scouts and a member of the Buckeye Club.

The Snelson Family will receive friends Thursday, May 5, 2016, from 4-7 at the McFarland & Son Funeral Home, Warren and Friday, May 6, 2016 from noon till 1:00 pm at Christ Episcopal Church. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 1:00pm in the church sanctuary with the Rev. Fr. J. Jeffery Baker officiating. A private inurnment will be in the Christ Episcopal Columbarium.

His family suggest contributions be made in the form of donations to Christ Episcopal Church Foundation, 2627 Atlantic St, NE Warren 44483, or to Lake Vista Foundation, https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/1319852 , OPRS, 1001 Kingsmill Parkway, Columbus, Ohio 43229

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland and Son Funeral and Cremation Services Co, 271 North Park Avenue, Warren, OH 44481, 330-393-9621. Please visit www.McFarlandCares.com to view this obituary, send condolences, and order flowers.