William Snegirev

William Snegirev, Our beloved Husband, father and son, age 47, passed away Jan. 24, 2017 from sudden cardiac arrest.

William was born, Vasilisk E Snegirev, to Eftifei and Ekaterina Snegirev on June 5, 1969. In the summer of 1983 He traveled to Alaska with his mother and siblings. That same year, William came to live with Jane and Kerry Petersen. The Petersen’s lovingly accepted him into their home and family and raised him as their own. William was later sealed to them in the Jordan River LDS Temple.

William graduated from Palmer high in 1988. While in school, he excelled in track and field, cross country, and wrestling. His senior year, he joined the Army Reserves. He certified in Lightweight vehicle mechanics. William was a Boy Scout earning the rank of Life Scout. He loved the scouting program and served with the young men. He ran marathons and participated in color runs just to be with these kids.

In 1998, William was called to serve as a missionary for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day saints. He served faithfully for two years in the Boston Massachusetts Mission. There he was able to teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ in his native Russian language. After his mission, William returned to Alaska where he met his future wife, Lori Arndt. They were married on Jan. 8, 1993 in the Jordan River Temple for time and all eternity. William and Lori are the parents of six children. Cullen, Cade, Haylee, Avi, Heath, and Ellery.

William was active with his children as a soccer coach, 4-H leader and River explorer. He loved to help with the livestock at the 4-H barn during the fair. He was known as the “Russian Cowboy” and “Reindeer Wrangler”. William had a special place in his heart for those who suffered. He was eager to reach out and serve where possible. His banter was easy and he loved to tease.

In his early career William was a journeyman Glazier and in the Local 1140 Union. He was currently Project Manager for Commercial Contractors. William loved to travel and spent time with his family. He was the “front” man who knew no strangers. While our hearts are broken, we look forward with faith to a beautiful reunion, for we will see him again. In his final act of love, William was able to donate his heart and kidneys to bless the life of others.

William is survived by his wife, Lori; children, Cullen, Haylee, Avi, Heath, and Ellery; Parents, Kerry and Jane Petersen; Grandmother, Irene Petersen; Brothers, Jacob (Mahana) Petersen, Peter Alway, Greg Snegirev, Bill (Sandy) Snegirev, and Paul (Liza) Snegirev; Sisters, Irina (Shawn) Carroll, Vassa Motes, Lidia (Robert) Quinones, Hanna (Joe) Martorell, Arielle (Matthew) Jones, and Claire (Greg) Mothershead.

William was preceded in death by his father, Eftifei, his mother, Ekaterina, and his son, William Cade Snegirev.

Funeral services will be held Saturday Feb. 4, 2017 at 12 p.m. (viewing at 11 a.m.) at the LDS Palmer Chapel