John Ely Snethen

John E. Snethen, Former Resident, Dies in California

John E. Snethen, who for many years was a resident of Lusk, and operated the bakery now the McKnight Bakery, passed away at his home in Bakersfield, Calif., Thursday, Jan. 27, according to information received here.

Mr. Snethen, who was 89 years of age, had led a retired life for many years, but had been in poor health for the past few years. He suffered a heart attack shortly after Christmas and was taken to the Kern County Hospital, where his condition gradually grew worse until his death last Thursday.

During his residence in Lusk Mr. Snethen was very active in all lines of civic endeavor. He was president of The Lusk Lions Club and spent much time in promoting the welfare of the town and county in the lat 20's and early 30's. He was also past master of Harmony Masonic Lodge No. 24 and was given a Masonic funeral in Bakersfield, where he had for some time made his home with his daughter. Mrs. Snethen and one daughter, Grace passed away several years ago.

Surviving relatives are four daughters: Mrs. Pearl Tooker, Culver City, Calif.; Mrs. Vera Smith, Kalispell, Mont.; Mrs. Ruth Miller, Durango, Colo., and Mrs. Catherine Campbell, Greggston, Tex.

Additional Information provided by relative Ruth I. Stude, Erie, CO

John Snethen's parents are William (M. or N.) Snethen and Susanna Jane James. His grandfather is fairly famous in the religious world. He is Abraham Snethen who was well known as the Barefoot Preacher born in Bourbon County, KY in 1794. His autobiography was published "Abraham Snethen, The Barefoot Preacher"; Collected and compiled by Mrs. N.E. Lamb.

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