Justin Ashley Sneegas, 35, of Shawnee, Kansas, died unexpectedly Sunday morning, September 15th, at a home in Independence, Missouri. Staying true to how Justin enjoyed spending his Sundays, family and friends will gather in his honor at his mother’s home on Sunday, September 22nd (details below).
Justin was born on January 24, 1978 in Lawrence, Kansas to Skip and Linda Sneegas. After graduating from Lawrence High School in 1996, he moved to the Kansas City area in 2004. He was employed by Tenneco.
Beginning with the profound love he felt for his grandmother, Thelma Oliver (1915 – 2000), Justin cherished time with his family. The bonds that grew from his childhood relationships expanded to the strong connection he later felt for his nephew, Tyler, and niece, Payton. Being an uncle to them was a role he greatly treasured. Sundays, birthdays, and holidays with family meant the world to him.
Justin was adored for his humor and gentle loving kindness. Never the one to seek the spotlight, Justin was known for breaking his silence with a comment that would make the entire room laugh. In 2006, he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent months of treatment. His personal fight with cancer never stopped him from inspiring smiles and laughs from fellow patients, nurses and doctors. It was his love for life, his family and his optimistic nature that carried him through to remission.
Whether it was lending a hand at his mom’s farm, doing his sister a favor, or working on a project with his dad, Justin could always be counted on to help. In 2011 while running errands for his boss, Justin sustained life-threatening injuries after being struck by a semi-truck. Just as he had done before, Justin met his challenge with courage, positivity and humor. He declared victory when he was able to walk unassisted after a year of physical therapy.
Family and friends will feel the deep void of his affection and tenderness. Survivors include his parents, Linda Sneegas, and Skip Sneegas, his sister, Jessica Sneegas Callagy, brother-in-law John Callagy and their children Tyler and Payton, his ex-wife, Kim Armenta, Justin’s beloved dogs, Boozer and Chewy, and a loving extended family. Justin will be greatly missed by his family and friends who welcome all in celebrating his life.
Celebration for Friends and Extended Family
Sunday, September 22nd
2pm – 5pm
25308 Chieftain Road, Lawrence, KS
In lieu of flowers or a donation, Justin would ask that you pay an act of kindness forward.
I would like to start off by saying how truly sorry I am my deepest condolences to his family and friends. My heart hurts so bad as I can not express the heart brake I feel inside. justin was a great friend we called each other best friends or he would call me wifey either way I fell in love with him..He made me smile everyday for the last 4 months. calling him a great friend is not even close he was so much more than that!!!! If I was crying he would be there wipeing my tears and sheding one him self. Hugs were the best from him. I have cryed my eyes out everyday since this happen I dont think I will ever ever get over this. feeling sad heart broken feeling like I wished I could of change it.. I am very sorry god is good and I know he has big plans for him.. I have been praying for him and his family I pray god puts his hands over your hearts and heals you from your loss. I know he loved his family he never stoped talking about his mom or sister and his niece and nephew.. he loved buying them stuff he said he might as well spoil them since he could not have kids!! he will be dearly missed my heart hurts so bad I’am truly sorry Life will never be the same with out him… I just want to see his smileing face one more time so I could high five him one last time or tell him a joke if I could go back in time I would have met him earlier so I could know and love him longer!!!!!! One of my favs was I pooped today magnet on his jeap!!!! I love you bf I hope where ever you are you will please forgive me and know that I am so so sorry my life will never be the same with that being said you truly were a great man and friend thank you for all you did or said to me… my life will never be the same I love you and I hope your past those gates looking down on everyone smileing god is good and has plans for you because I know god picks weeds all day but every once in awhile he picks flowers and that was day he picked you………… love your wifey bf- <3
To the family and friends of Justin,
I want to send my Condolences & Deepest sympathy to you All. Death Like the Enemy it is steals away those we love .1 Corinthians 15: 26
But the God of Love Remembers Justin. Malachi 3:16 ;John 11:11 May God be with you and comfort you and Bring you Peace.
Skip, Linda, and Jessica,
I wish there were was something I could say to ease your pain. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this most difficult time.
May time heal your heart ache and pain.
Skip and the Sneegas Family.
Please our deepest sympathies. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Don and Cindy Turner
Skip, Linda, and Jess:
I was so sorry to hear about Justin. It’s been many years since I last saw Justin, but remember him as someone who was always sweet and kind. I’m sorry for the terrible loss and sadness I know you’re feeling. I care about you all and am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Michelle
I only knew Justin for only a short time,seen at the store
A few times ,he had some health issues, he was a really
nice guy whenever I spoke to him,always pleasant. My heart goes out to Kim who was his wife at the time and an awesome friend to me since I have known her,her family and Justin’s family I wish you much comfort and peace , and compassion In this trying time may the God of Love and Peace be with you, may you continue to live
a life of love just as Jesus loved us and just as Justin loved his life and his family amen.
Linda,Skip and Jessica, Words cannot
express our shock and sadness for your family. You are all very special in our hearts. Our prayers go out to you.
Love, Jean and Roy
So sorry for the loss of Justin, he was a good kid. My prayers are with you all.
Linda and Skip
Connie and I were so sorry to hear of your loss. Justin was a great kid and a good friend of our son when he visited Kansas every summer.
Our sincere condolences
Linda, Jess and Skip, We were heartbroken to hear of Justin’s passing . We did not know him for a long time but you only had to meet him once to tell that he was everything that has been mentioned before, a remarkable young man. There aren’t enough words to say how we feel or to comfort you but we send our love and deepest thoughts of sympathy to you and your family.
I am so sorry for your lose. My daughter Tiffany Denniston worked with him a few years ago & had nothing but great things to say about him.a terrible lose & my prayers are with u & your family.
Skip and Linda,
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Justin is one of the truly great ones and you could sense that the first time you met him. I was lucky enough to spend time with him and Megan in Minnesota and he’s one of those guys who really made the world a better place. In the course of one week’s time, I totally sensed that he would’ve done anything for me, because that was just the way he was — one of those rare and pure individuals. My heart literally aches and breaks for you, his family I never met. Hopefully you will have some small comfort knowing he left a bright spot in a world that is too often filled with this gut-wrenching sadness. Much love and peace to you all.
I remember coming to Lawrence KS to Linda’s Home and there Justin stood on the front Porch big smile and a welcome handshake, he was always around to talk to and used to show me around town he had great pride in his Family His City and state, I remember he loved his dogs too, and I will never forget Jessica for her kindness to me as well I do remember him my my prayers
With great sadness and a heavy heart I send my sympathy to the Sneegas family. My husband and I so enjoyed meeting Justin while hosting he and Meg at our home during their MN visits. We really had a lot of fun and great laughs getting to know each other. He was a kind and gentle spirit. I am so very sorry for your family’s loss.
Skip, Linda and Jessie, I am deeply saddened with the news of Justin’s passing. Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers. I pray God will give you strength and help you to somehow find peace in spite of the circumstances. I hold you all in a dear and special place in my heart with so many precious memories. Jessie, you and Justin were such beautiful, sweet and kind children…I knew it would carry into your lives as adults. Much love always, Gaylene
Linda and Skip, I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
I am so sorry for the loss of Justin. I worked with him at Tenneco and he was always a nice guy and a kind individual. I miss not seeing him at the plant. I wish I could offer more solace to you. He will be missed.
Still can’t believe it. The world has lost one of its brightest stars in Justin. He was loved by all who knew him, and even those who didn’t know him so well. That big ol smile is the first thing I think of when he comes to mind. Always there with a kind gesture or compliment or a goofy and silly demeanor. He will be sorely missed by all of us. Justin, we can all learn from your positive attitude and willingness to be a great friend to others. Love you, bud.
Skip, Linda, Jessica
This whole family is near and dear to my heart, I cannot imagine the pain your going through. You Have my deepest, heartfelt,sympathy
Jessica was one of my childhood best friends. we spent countless hours together at there family home. i will always remember Justin as a kind older brother that looked out for us both. my thoughts and prayers go out to Jessics, Linda and Skip.
Skip and Linda; I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Justin at such a young age.
It is so hard to understand other, then GOD has a much better plan for Justin. But, it is so hard on the ones he leaves behind. But, keep God in your life and you’ll be fine after a period of time. May GOD be with all of you. Your in my thoughts and prayers. Love you all. (Wanda Copp)
We are saddened by the sudden loss of Justin, a truly kind person. Skip, Linda, Jessica, John, Tyler, Payton and everyone that loved him will be in our thoughts and prayers.
We are so sorry of your loss. Justin will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with the family.
John & Helen Renick
I can only reiterate everyone else’s sentiments in that Justin was one of the kindest people I have ever met. I originally met him in grade school at Broken Arrow, and have so many memories of us hanging out back in the day, usually laughing our asses off in the process. Skateboarding, messing around at work, hanging out with all our roommates…the list could go on and on. He possessed a rare combination of being a remarkably generous and kind person, yet was also incredibly fun to be around. The bottom line is the world was always a better place when Justin was around, and he will be missed and remembered fondly. I’m lucky to have known him, and am thankful for the memories. My condolences to Skip, Linda, Jessica, and the rest of the family.
Erin got married last weekend. We were looking through pictures for the Slideshow at the rehearsal dinner. We came across some pictures of the Bucha, Howland and Sneegas kids. Those pictures made us smile and now are hearts break for your family. So sorry to hear of such sad news. Your in our thoughts and prayers.
This tragedy and senseless act has brought forth such a tremendous outpouring of love, caring, and strength from your family, that you inspire others to set aside, however briefly, the anger & bitterness that you all inevitably must feel. In reading about Justin’s life, this seems very fitting. Thoughts, prayers, love and light to you all.
Skip, Linda, Jessica and family, we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Linda, Jess, and all of Justin’s family, I am so sorry for your loss! Justin was a great guy and I remember lots of laughs with him back in our “mowing” days! It is just so sad and I want you all to know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda & Skip, Jess
No words can express how sadden we are of Justins passing. All the memories of him and Jess babysitting them and how sweet they were and are we love you all and the memories of him will remain in our hearts forever.
Love you all praying god will somehow give you peace and strength thru this tragic time.
Linda& Skip, Jessica,
No words can say how my heart ackes for you all. I remember when Jean and I babysat for your sweet kids they brought us such joy in our hearts. I love all of you and will remember Justin for the sweet boy he was and a wonderful man he turned into. Prayers for all of you in this time of need.
Linda and Skip – so sorry to hear about the loss of your son. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Linda and Skip, we are so sorry to hear about Justin. Every time that your family and friends gather you will share all of your Justin stories. He is part of all of you and will always be missed and loved. Justin will be with all of you still and watching over you.
Skip, Linda, Jessica & extended family, Ed and I met Justin as a small boy when we hung out together with Phil & Marsha. We renewed our acquaintance with him a few years ago at a party at their home while he was going through his physical therapy after the truck accident. We were impressed at that time with his positive attitude and were surprised to learn that he had also been diagnosed with cancer and won that battle with dignity and humor.
What a positive attitude he exuded with his smile & humor – we enjoyed our afternoon listening to him tell stories and jokes about life growing up as the son of Skip & Linda.
Our hearts go out to you during this extremely sad time in your lives. We hope that you are able to be gentle with yourselves in the weeks and months ahead; rest in God’s love, draw in His strength and know that you are loved. You will be in our hearts & prayers – Ed & Elaine Bryan
Although I never met Justin, I do know his loving cousin Linzi. She entered my life around 2002 in San Francisco and thus I know how much love she shares for family, friends, and community. That gives me a strong sense of who Justin was on earth and will be in eternity. She speaks so fondly of growing up with him. All I can say is that I care, I’m thinking of Justin’s family and friends, and that I’m so sorry for your loss. I wish you all health and strength. – Ian Sherbin
My deepest, heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Justin had such a kind, gentle nature and will be sorely missed by so many. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your son. Our thoughts are with you, Jerry and Camille
Justin was my very first crush, I remember being so sure I would grow up and marry that boy. We were 7 but even then he had a fun and warmness about him that made him special. I remember leaving injured animals on Mr. Roth’s porch for him to look at, and then 9 years later Mr. Roth using the fire extinguisher to wake him up when Justin fell asleep in his class. There were bike rides across Louisiana st that none of us were supposed to be on, and football in the yard, and snow ball fights. The list goes on and on. I’m heartbroken for his loss and my thought and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.
Although I am unable to attend the Celebration of Life for Justin, my sincere condolences go out to his family.
He was always a delight to work with and eager to get any tasks completed. Know that you raised a child any parent would be proud of.
Linda, Skip and Jessica, I am so sorry, you all are in my thoughts and prayers. I have so many wonderful memories of Justin that still make me smile after 20 years!I remember Justin picking me up in front of South Jr. High in his giant lime green car and I felt like the coolest girl ever. I also laugh thinking about anytime someone came to the front door and everyone would yell “Don’t let Blacktop out!”. Those are only two of a million. The times I was so close with your family are very near and dear to my heart. I still have keepsakes stored away that I have saved all these years. I know now why I have never been able to let them go. I love you all, rest in peace Justin.
To the Sneegas and Oliver Family my deepest and heartfelt sympathy. Justin was a beautiful little boy and grew up to be a fine young man. He will never be forgotten by so many of us. He lives on in our hearts and we can see him in all your faces.
Tom and Dee Jerome – Eudora
Remembering Justin and your wonderful family … with deep sorrow for your loss that words can’t begin to express.
Skip, Linda, Jessica and family, we can only imagine what you’re going through at this time; life throws us a curve sometimes that we find hard to handle; you will get through this remembering all the wonderful times you all had with Justin and cherish each and every one of them; although we never knew him as others did, we know what great parents you both were to produce such a wonderful son and daughter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Over the past few days I’ve replayed all the great memories I have of spending time with Justin and his family at their home on Park Hill Terr. I can’t remember a day where we weren’t laughing and just having a great time. I met Justin early on while visiting my Grandmother up the road on Kansas St. We became very close friends and spent many days and nights just hanging out being goofy kids. We had a lot of fun adventures together and I will always cherish those memories of growing up with Justin during the awkward Junior High and High School years. He was an amazing guy and I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My condolences go out to the Sneegas family. His generosity, artistic creativity, humor, loyalty, kindness and resilience were an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to have called him a friend. Justin you will be dearly missed. Rest in peace old friend.
To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die. (Thomas Campbell ) Justin will be missed by all who knew him. But we will always remember his love for life, his kindness, and his compassion for others.
I will always remember Justin’s kind and sweet spirit! My heart breaks for their family. I am sending love and peace.
Linda, and Skip, was so sorry for the loss of your son! Our heart aches for you, thoughts and prayers to you and your family! Mike and Diane Leming
I grew up with Justin. He was fun, lively and adventurous. He was always wanting to help and he always had a smile while he did it. I will miss Justin greatly but when I think back on all of our great time together I will smile and be thankful for the times we had. Skip,Linda, Jessica. I am so sorry for your loss.
Justin is remembered as the pleasant/helpful assistant to his mother, Linda, as,for many years, they took care of yard care at my apartment and homes. Condolences to all of the Sneegas family members.
Justin is remembered as the pleasant/helpbul assistant to his mother, Linda, as,for many years, they took care of yard care at my apartment and homes. Condolences to all of the Sneegas family members.
I started out as a co-worker with Justin as he started his career at Tenneco. His warm and welcoming personality made clear that our relationship would be more than just one of co-workers.
Whether it was his “I’m starving…what’s for lunch???” question (asked normally around 7:30 in the a.m.), his eagerness to learn (and the mistakes made in learning), or his unwavering stance on his political views – even in a room of people who had different views, when he was there, the conversation would be light and there would be a glow.
Thank you Justin, for the wonderful memories and for being SUCH a great friend. I smile thinking of the many laughs and fun times, but am sad at the thought of returning to work knowing there will be no more.
Linda, Skip, Jess…..words cannot be enough. Let the LOVE Justin had for all of you comfort you as you deal with this.
Skip, Linda, and the entire Sneegas family or thoughts and prayers go out to you.
I’m so sorry to hear of Your loss,our loss. As a plumber myself,I always enjoyed when Justin came out to take care of our needs. He will be missed. I hope my next plumber has the same pride in his work. I had a lot of respect for him.