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Remembering Jack Snow
Tuesday, January 10, 2006 Text A A A | RSS
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In lieu of a normal mailbag, we will take today to honor Jack Snow with your thoughts and memories of No. 84. We will continue to take these memories throughout the day so keep sending them in. So far, the outpouring of support and love for Mr. Snow has been tremendous. Thanks to everyone who sent a thought or memory no matter how long or short. Greg Maracek, St. Louis: Jack was a valued employee and good friend in his years at KFNS Radio. Two words to describe Jack are "loyal and dedicated". He was both to the radio station and obviously to the Rams. In private conversations he was always interested in how your family was doing and how you were doing. Whether we went to lunch or dinner he was animated, entertaining and just a joy to be with. My wife, Helen, and I enjoyed several occasions with Jack socially and on this day, we send our deepest sympathy to the entire Jack Snow family. Lisa Steele-Guardi, Los Alamitos, Calif.: I have known Mr. Snow since 1978 as he was my best friend's Dad. Michelle Snow-Peters and I spent our formidable years together under the watchful eye of Mr. Snow. Mr. Snow taught me many valuable lessons over the years! One very important one is of never giving up....never quitting and always giving your best. It is something I try to remember every day and hope to instill in my children. We will miss him very much. God Bless. Karl McManus, Boiling Springs, Penn.: It is with GREAT SADNESS and a heavy heart to hear of this news. I've never talked or met Mr. Jack Snow. As a child I remember sending away to the Los Angeles RAMS scribbling a short note asking for autographed pictures of certain players. Of course this is like 35 years ago when all I did was write the note and pay for the postage to send the request. In return the Players autograph their black and white photos by hand at NO CHARGE. In addition the Los Angeles RAMS send the autographed photos paying for all postage. With great attention to detail my Mother (Bless her heart) puts a piece of cardboard behind the photo, wraps it in saran wrap and tapes it on to protect the jewel I've received. To this day I still have this wonderful autographed picture of Mr. Jack Snow in his famous athletic pose with football in hand. Not only will I cherish the memories that Mr. Jack Snow provided when I was able to catch 1 game a year televised nationally. I'll make sure I do something special with this autographed photo to memorialize it for the jewel he was to club, teammates and fans. They DO NOT make players like they used to when I was able to get FREE autographed photos when instead today you must pay an arm, leg and then some just to get something autographed or stand in line for hours to see a star if you're lucky enough for one of them to make the time. He is a true Gentleman, Person and Player who put his needs to the side and unselfishly gave his all to the club, players and the children who adored him. I'm blessed to other photos autographed by the likes of Roman Gabriel, Merlin Olsen, Deacon Jones, George Allen and others. If only the current NFL Players or even just the Players of the RAMS would take a lesson from their predecessors to give freely without greed for money, this world and USA would be a better place as we children look up to our role models in this day and age. I'm still waiting for the day when 1 NFL Player or Star will step up to the plate and say, " I love this game so much, I'm going to play for FREE, no salary, no nothing this year ! " I wait for him to challenge his teammates and other players around the league to set shining examples for the children who adore them wishing they had 1/1,000,000th of the talent these men are blessed with by GOD. I know I'll never see that day and every player in the league would probably scoff at it because of the Players Union. They make millions of dollars (they do give to charities and I appreciate that) but aren't they set for life if they've invested wisely ? If they love the game as much as they say they do, why don't some just play for free due to their love for the game ? If they talk the talk why can't they walk the walk ? THEY DO NOT MAKE NFL PLAYERS LIKE THEY USED TO ... !!! Jim Cavalier, Scottsdale, Ariz.: It is still vivid in my memory, after all these years, the voice of Dick Enberg on so many of those bright Sunday afternoons, "Gabriel under center Ken Iman, Snow right, Tucker left." He was a year ahead of me at St Anthony Catholic School in Long Beach but already a legend. I met him several times over the years, the most recent at a charity dinner for Lamar Lundy. Jack was always a class act and constantly with that award wining smile. He's smiling for God now so heaven is a bit brighter tonight. All our prayers to his family and friends. Our loss, heavens gain. Debbie Tichenor-Bosecker, Cottleville, Mo.: My daughter & I had the opportunity to attend the RAMS "Football 101" & "Football 201" for Women classes many years ago @ RAMS park. Jack Snow was the key-note speaker @ the sessions. He seemed like a very kind & compassionate man. You could tell that he truly loved football, & especially the RAMS. I can't imagine him not broadcasting the games. My family was known to turn the sound down on the TV to listen to Jack & Steve broadcast the games. He will truly be missed by the St. Louis football community. Kevin Link, St. Charles, Mo: I remember the mall mini-camps (football 101) that Jack sponsored with some of the Rams players at Mid-Rivers Mall in the mid/late 90s. He was good with kids of all ages and took the time to sign autographs for kids and adults alike. I have a photo of Jack with my kids at Mid-Rivers from 1997. We will all miss Jack. My sympathy and prayers go out to Jack and his family and friends. Bill Hutton, San Jose, Calif.: I was fortunate to meet the Snow family in 1975 when I unknowingly drafted an 8 year old left handed squirt onto the little league team I was coaching. I was a 17 year old high school senior coaching my brother's little league team (on my dads orders) while also playing on my high school team. When I found out that it was Jack Snow's kid, I was blown away because Jack was the star Rams receiver. Jack was unbelievably kind to me for over 30 years. He helped me with my coaching career. Kept in touch with me, and I always enjoyed seeing him. We attended quite a few Giants games while watching that little squirt play some mean first base. Jack's girl's were awesome too. I was able to see them for the first time in about 25 years when the Giants played in the world series. Great family. Ate a lot of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at their house. Swam in their pool and the entire family was and still is awesome. I am stunned at their loss, since they lost their mother just a few short years ago. Great people and great memories. Jack was first class. I will miss him. Pepsi will lose some money since Jack loved drinking pepsi. One of the highlights of my life was knowing Jack Snow. Jorge Valdivia, Tigard: He became a Los Angeles Ram WR just as I became a Rams fan some 40 years ago. He always remained loyal to the team and his character was ever kind, gregarious and jovial. A true sport, a gentleman. His successful career leaves many memories of a classy yet gutsy receiver, hauling in short and l-o-n-g passes, particularly from another icon of his early years with the Rams, Roman Gabriel. That was a Rams signature... Today I'm saddened by the passing of this amiable figure, an elegant and strong Bighorn among legendary Rams -- alas, a life ending much too early. A heartfelt salute to that special No. 84. My sincerest sympathy to his family and friends. Even for those of us that never met him, he was such a good friend.
The day couldn't have been hotter, but my fisty senior citizen stood down by the fence of the practice field so that she could get the attention of someone to tell Jack she was there. And when he found out, he came racing across the field in a golf cart waving his outstreched arm, shouting Helen at the top of his voice, and all the while these very important business types were standing around wondering who this little red haired women was that was causing such a comotion. Wereupon she opened the gate without hesitation walked through and climed in the cart and got the biggest hug ever. The pictures I have of this happy meeting are incredable, they speak volumes of the type of man that Jack Snow was. They always had a special exchange between the two of them and over the years I got to wittness this more and more, and was made to feel a part of Jack Snow's ever growing circle of friends and fans. He never let anyone feel slighted in anyway he was the consumate gentelman and sportsman, his passing will leave a void of great magnetude. Rocky Montelli, Yorba Linda, Calif.: I loved going to Ram games as a kid at the LA Coloseum. Jack Snow was my favorite Ram back in the late 60's and early 70's. I loved his over the shoulder catches. One year, I think it was 1969, the Rams played an exhibition game at Anaheim Stadium. My Dad took my friend and I to the game and somehow we got on the field through a gate that was open near the first row. When we neared the Rams sideline the first thing I asked my friend was where is Jack Snow. The next thing I heard was "I'm right here buddy." Jack Snow was on one knee on the sideline taking a breather. He talked to my friend and I for about 10 more minutes. I will never forget it. Christopher Charpentier, Westborough, Mass.: I love the NFL. Each year I look forward to following the greatest game ever invented. The seeds of my passion started with the great Los Angeles Rams Teams of the 1960/1970s. Like many of my generation, the week revolved around broadcast of games (unfortunately, so few Rams Games in that era on the East Coast...no espn you know) and NFL Film Highlight Shows. The thrill of #18 passing to #84 was my first great fan moment. The years have passed and I have been a New England Patriots Season Ticket Holder since 1991.I have attended a Super Bowl,seen two AFC Championship Games, and witnessed every Home Game of the current legendary home town team. But I would trade it all to go back and sit in the L.A. Coliseum on a bright sunny October afternoon and relive a single glory day of the Fearsome Foursome, Gabe, and Jack Snow. An integral part of my NFL heart has been lost with the passing of Jack Snow...I cannot express my sadness at his untimely passing. God bless his surviving family and friends.... Mary Jo Yonto, Peru, Ind.: Sometime in the early 80's I was living in Sacramento California. My father is Joe Yonto, who was the defensive line coach for many years at Notre Dame (including the time that Jack Snow played there). We were at a Notre Dame breakfast before the USC game and my father insisted that I come with him to meet Jack Snow. I was in awe since he was my favorite player (Notre Dame and NFL) since 1964. Mr. Snow was very pleasant and as I remember he wore a Hawaiian shirt! In recent years I always wanted to see the Rams in St. Louis if only to hear Mr. Snow on the radio doing the color commentary. I am sorry that I will not get the chance now, but he will always be my favorite Ram. Darrell Tremblay, Glendale, Ariz.: It was 1968, I was 8 years old when the rams were in Los Angeles. I remember watching Jack, and his great catches from Roman Gabriel. I remember to this day watching him on the couch at home with my dad. I remember asking for a rams uniform as a kid for Christmas. Guess what, I got it that Christams. To this day, sitting on my computer desk, with the rest of my rams collection, I have the white and blue helmet sitting here. As I look at it now, I remember Jack Snow. My prayers are with the family. Steve Turck, Collinsville, Ill.: When The Rams first moved to St Louis, Kevin Slaten and Jack Snow did a football/call in show from Joe Hanon's every Monday night. I was fortunate enough to work nearby and attend these shows regularly. My first time meeting Jack Snow, he approached me after the broadcast and began talking to me as though I could have been his next door neighbor. Jack and I had talked football during the broadcast, but afterward he talked about everything from my kids to housing costs where I live. This was from a man who was a football legend, and relatively speaking, I was nobody. From that point on each time I attended a broadcast Jack continued treating me like an old friend-and he absolutely didn't have to. Jack always made me feel like I was a peer, a friend, a neighbor, not to mention being a fun guy to be around. Never mind what kind of a football guy this man was..it was the type of person he always was to me is what I will always remember about Mr. Snow. Jim Kalashian, Fresno, Calif.: I became a Ram fan in 1966 and along with Roman Gabriel and the Fearsome Foursome, Jack Snow was one of my childhood heroes. After the Rams moved to St. Louis I stayed a fan and even traveled to 3 training camps in Macomb from 2001 thru 2003. Each year I approached Mr. Snow and each time he was very gracious and spoke to me and my kids at length about his career and the Rams in general. I am deeply saddened by his passing and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Darryl Baker, Phoenix: I first met Jack Snow in 1980 as a middle school friend and classmate of his son JT in Los Alamitos, CA. Through my middle school and high school years of close association with the Snow family, I had many opportunities to visit with and learn from Mr Snow while traveling to games or sitting on the sidelines with him. He was a dedicated husband and father and he was an honorable, good man. Although he always demanded respect, I remember sharing many laughs with him as he told stories of his playing days. My thoughts and prayers go out to Michelle, JT, and Stephanie at this difficult time. Gary Lamer, Sarasota, Fla.: In 1969 Mr.Snow was the guest speaker at my high school's winter sports banquet(Aviation High School, Redondo Beach,Ca.) At that time Mr.Snow was a star receiver with the Los Angeles Rams. I was on the freshman football team and everyone was excited about Mr.Snow coming to our school.I remember that he gave a very inspirational speech. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Snow family on this unexpected and devastating loss. Tony Lordi, Kansas City: Jack Snow was truly one of the greatest wide recievers in LA/St Louis Ram history. Playing with the famous Fearsome Foursome, Deacon Jones, Roger Brown, Merlin Olson & Lamar Lundy and also players like Billy Truax, Dick Bass, Les Josephson truly helped the Rams become a winning Team. If not some great catches by Jack in 1967 my most meorable game where Tony Guillory blocked Green Bays Donny Anderson's punt and Claude Crabb picking it up & with five GB Packers on him dragged it to the five where Gabriel hit Bernie Casy with the winner 27-24. One great game I'll never forget. Jon Crawford, Virginia Beach, Va.: I grew up in southern California. Once a Ram fan always a ram fan. I remember all the great games at the Coliseum in LA. Jack Snow was my favorite player growing up. I wore his number 84 proudly. He will be missed! God bless him and his family. He touched thousands with his greatness on the field and off. Thank you for all the memories. He was a true hero to me. Tracy Baca, Van Nuys, Calif.: I had the great pleasure of meeting Jack Snow a few years ago in San Francisco when the Rams were playing the 49ers. He was very friendly and talked to us for several minutes. I was admiring his Super Bowl ring and he asked if I wanted to try it on. I put it on my finger and was marveling at how beautiful it was. He said "That's what happens when your team is owned by a woman." I kept staring at it, I couldn't believe that I was wearing a Super Bowl ring from my favorite team! Jack noticed how long it took me to give the ring back to him. He said "Honey you're a sweetheart, but if you don't give me that ring back I'm going to have to hurt you." It was a hilarious moment, everyone in our group laughed. Jack Snow was truly a gracious and friendly man who took the time to talk to the fans and really appreciated them. Today is a sad day and I will miss him. Michael Howshower, Denver, Penn.: I remember Jack Snow when I was just a little boy growing up as a Rams fan. He was the first favorite Rams player that I had. I remember the great catches he used to make with Roman Gabriel at quarterback!! They had some good teams back then! Deacon Jones, Merlin olsen the fearsome foursome what a defense they had also. I am very sad to hear of his passin away.My prayers are with his family. Ronnie Paul Jr., Fresno, Calif.: I grew up with the Rams, my uncle Don Paul was a player on the 1951 Championship Ram team, former assisant coach, and CBS color commentator, and later opened up the Ram's Horn restaurant. During the 60's while growing up, I became very close with Jack Snow, Roman Gabriel, and Dick Bass. Jack was always nice to me, and had a good heart. And while broadcasting the Ram games on KMPC AM 710 he would always put me on the air during Ram Talk. We will all miss him very much. Paul Mittan, Lakewood, Calif.: To the Snow Family: I'm a Los Al grad 74, as a young boy he came to St. Hedwig for a speech and was very gracious to all the who attended. I'll always remember, also seeing him at Rossmoor Club and playing raquetball and still moving like he did in his playing days. Who can't forget the Caddie with RAMS 84, great memories for many in the Los Al/Rossmoor/Seal Beach. Again, to the family sorry for your lost. Bill Sykes, Sacramento, Calif.: Upon reading about the passing of Mr. Snow, I feel a real sense of sadness and pain, as I remember meeting Mr. Snow when I was just 14 years old. My father was in the Navy and stationed at the Long Beach Naval Shipyard back in 1970. He took me and my brother to a benefit basketball game at St. Anthony High School, which I attended. I fondly remember watching Deacon Jones and Roman Gabriel play in this celebrity fundraising game. As me, my brother and my dad were leaving the gym, it was dark, and as I recollect, my father recognized Mr. Snow, so we went up to him and introduced ourselves. I remember how awestruck I was in meeting him. He was sitting in a sports car (I believe is was a Corvette), and with him was a little baby boy. I remember his demeanor was so nice and humble. He eagerly gave signed his name for me and my brother. I have thought about this incident down through the years. I've often wondered how "Jack Snow" was doing. It sure sounds like he hadn't changed from that warm night outside the St. Anthony gym. His family was so blesses to have shared such a short time with this kind man. I have and will always remember that brief encounter, for my devotion to the Rams throughout all these years was strengthened by this encounter. I remember feeling that all the Rams was just like Mr. Snow. Oh, and that little baby in the front seat of his car was J.T. God Bless. Rick Turner, Danville, Calif.: I am a 49er Faithful since birth. I owe it to my dad for giving me a sense and appreciation of football history. I came to know the Rams of Hirsch Van Brocklin, Bass, Matson, Waterfield, and others through him. I came to know the Rams of Snow, Gabriel, Meador, Jones, Olsen, Pardee, Ellison, Iman, Cross, and others for myself. Usually it was in one of those epic battles with John Brodie and my beloved 49ers. I sure miss those players and those days of the NFL. God bless you Jack; thanks for so many great memories. Chris Deherrera, La Mirada, Calif.: I can go back as far as the 1968 L.A. Rams, yes L.A. Rams Football season, my very first at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum to see Roman Gabriel throw to Jack Snow, who was my mother's favorite Ram Player of All Time. Matter of fact I got a Ram Uniform for Christmas with the Number 84. Not only was he a great receiver but a great person, he did so much, he will be missed. I spoke with my mother this morning and she was really sad to hear of his death. Please send my blessing to his family. John Brink, Richview, Ill.: I have listened to a lot football over the years but Jack was the best football color comentator I ever heard. His experience and love and enthusiasm for the game will be greatly missed. He was a pretty good football player too, to say the least. Someone will take his place but not replace him. Sean Findley, Gilroy, Calif.: I became a Rams fan just before Mr. Snow came to the team. Growing up in So. Ca. and listening to the games was so exciting. Getting to see them play on TV was even better. I was never able to see them play live then, but the games were always a treat. He personified the team. I vividly remember him catching passes in the middle of the field despite getting whacked. He was a tough customer playing with tough customers. I wanted so badly for that era of Rams players to win a championship. I am glad that Mr. Snow got to be part of the team as it reached the pinnacle. Rest in glory Mr. Snow. God Bless his family and friends. Frank Terrazas, San Pedro, Calif.: I have been a true and loyal RAMS fan since 1968.In all these years I have had many favorite players that I have won with and lost with.As a child,while playing football with my friends,I would emulate the likes of DEACON JONES,ROMAN GABRIEL,and of course JACK SNOW.I would be glued to the TV watching my RAMS and always keeping an eye on the great JACK SNOW.Watching the many great catches this man would make.As I grew up I eventually had season tickets in anahiem.Being a true RAM fan I went to many RAM functions where players from the past were present.I got to meet JACK SNOW a few times.I found JACK very warm and friendly.A man who didn't mind signing autographs and talking for great lengths about his time as a player and the state of the RAMS team at that time.At a time when many players both past and present don't want to deal with the public,JACK SNOW was the opposite.He would greet the many RAM fans like me with a smile and a hand shake.I never told him how much I admired him when I was a child.As a matter of fact I still do.I'm sure I was not the only kid on the block playing football,being JACK SNOW for the day.Heres to you JACK,a GREAT player,a TRUE RAM.You will be greatly missed.My thoughts and prayers go out to the SNOW family. Kevin Watson, San Diego: It's been so long since I saw him play. What I remember is, from the time I was 5 years old to the time I was 16, I wanted to be Jack Snow. I wanted to be a wide receiver for the Rams. I wanted to go to Notre Dame. He caught everything thrown at him. Jack Snow contributed to my life without knowing it. My prayers go to his family. God Bless. Vincent Garcia, Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.: Who can forget that great game he had against the Colts in 1967? The Rams needed to win against the unbeaten Colts to give them the Pacific Division Crown and a first round playoff against the Packers. They won 34-10 thanks to Snow and Roman Gabriel. It is unfortunate that something finally caught him from behind but I never saw it happen when he was a Great RAM PLAYER! Peace to you, brother. I hope you get your reward in heaven. I know one thing, "Jesus, play deep. Here Comes Snow!" Daniel Garland, Tuscon, Ariz.: Was very sad to hear the news about Jack Snow. He was one of my favorite Rams player in the 70's. I have all the team highlights from NFL Films during the 70's and will enjoy and cherish them even more now. Also have some games from that time frame on DVD that I will now watch with joy and sadness at the same time. Wish the ball players of today were more like the players of the 60's and 70's. Sure miss that kind of football when it meant something other than money and the attitude of "Look at me", that has poisened professional sports. The ballplayers of today could learn alot from players like Jack Snow. God Bless Him. Thank you. Jack Ellis, Marion, NC: When I was 9 years old in 1971, my favorite team was the Kansas City Chiefs. They had bright red uniforms and arrow heads on their helmets. Pretty cool. During pre-season that year, I sat down one evening to watch a game between some team long forgotten and the Los Angeles Rams. I knew very little about the NFL in those days, so I was surprised to find that the Rams' QB was from North Carolina, my home state. Then I noticed this guy wearing # 84 with "Snow" on his back. He made a catch and I heard the announcer call his name "Jack". That settled it. I was a Rams fan. That was 34+ years ago and I've never waivered in my allegiance to "my team". The Panthers moved into town in '95, and no one could understand why I didn't switch teams. A big reason why then, as well as now, is my childhood memories of a guy named Jack Snow running down field with the curly horns on his helmet. More recently, I grew accustomed to hearing Mr. Snow on the Rams radio broadcasts. He was always fun to listen to and I appreciated that he never held back, either in jubilation or disappointment. I was very sad to hear of his death as I drove to work this morning. I'll miss him, but in my mind, # 84 will always be young and running down the field. Terry Tschaekofske, Salt Lake City: First I want to say that I am very sad by the passing of Jack Snow. While I don't personally like to use the word "hero", Jack Snow was about as close as they come to me. He inspired by his greatness. My first memory of the NFL is when I was only 5 years old. I was watching this strange game on TV called football. It looked pretty fun. I was watching a game between the Los Angeles Rams and the 49ers. At the time I knew nothing about football, or the NFL, or the teams or players. The Rams had the ball. This quarterback, another person who would be close to a hero for me as well, Roman Gabriel, threw the ball in a very pretty deep arching pass all the way down the field, it fell perfectly in the hands of #84 he ran the ball in for a touchdown. I wasn't quite sure what I had just witnessed, but thought it was way cool. The way the ball floated threw the air, and the way #84 caught the ball. The announcers then mentioned their names, Roman Gabriel touchdown pass to Jack Snow. That was it the Rams have been my team ever since. And two of my favorites players to ever play are Roman Gabriel and Jack Snow. For me these two will always go hand in hand. Of course after that day I watched as many Rams games as I could. I loved watching Jack Snow play, he had a beauty and grace along with toughness. I collected football cards, posters and anything I could get with #84 Jack Snow on it. My passion for football, the NFL, and the Rams have grown throughout the years. Players who have played for the Rams have always been some of my favorites. Jack Snow was the first player I ever saw catch a Touchdown pass, a long bomb, it was beautiful, I was hooked. He is the reason I love the game as much as I do. He started a passion, I will always remember him. I love football, I love the NFL, and I love the Rams. It is all because of Jack Snow. I don't know if any of this makes sense. But for it me it is like losing a good friend. To Jack Snow, one of the greats. Bradley Sinclair, Chesterfield, Mo.: I grew up in Tempe, Arizona. Back then, Phoenix did not have an NFL team, so most kids, like me, were Los Angeles Rams fans. Jack Snow was my hero, and whenever the boys played backyard football, I always took on the persona of #84 Jack Snow. Around 1969-1970, my parents took my brother and I on a weekend trip to Las Vegas. While I was walking through the lobby of the Stratosphere hotel, I heard a page over the broadcast system for Jack Snow to take a call on one of the house phones. It sounded like a great way to get to talk with my sports hero, so a few minutes later I picked up a house phone and asked the operator to page Jack Snow. She did, and to my great surprise a voice came on and said, "this is Jack." I asked if he was the same Jack Snow that played for the Rams, and he confirmed that he was. For the next few minutes, we talked as though we had been friends for years. Jack asked my name, where I was from, position I played and so forth. And I asked him what it was like playing in the NFL. It was an awesome experience that I have never forgotten. Jack was so kind, and seemed to really enjoy connecting with a 12 year-old fan who thought the world of him. Dave Hollon, Fullerton, Calif.: I had the pleasure of coaching against Jack in a couple of little league baseball tournaments in the 79-81 timeframe. I was coaching in a Long Beach area league and Jack was coaching J.T.'s team in Los Alamitos. He was the perfect gentlemen, and you would never know from how he conducted himself that he was a former star All-Pro. We have treasured memories of Jack in SoCal. Lee Kagy, Huntington Beach, Calif.: Jack was the greatest. I have been a Rams fan since 1951 and the greatest team in Los Angeles was the 67 Rams. Jack was a great part of that team. I was fortunate to have season tickets and witnessed the greatest Ram game in Los Angeles. That would be block punt game against the Packers. The Rams had the best record and were 11-1-2 that year. They had to win the last two games of season to win the division. In those days, they did not give home field to the team with the best record and the Rams always seemed to be on the road. I can remember so many times seeing Jack catch a TD pass from Gabe. No one ever caught him from behind. He was a first class player and a first class person. We will miss him. Felix Romero, Los Angeles: I have been a Ram fan all of my
45 years. I recall when I was young, the 6th grade to be exact and I joined the
flag football team. Since the majority of the upper level boys got real jerseys.
I took it upon myself to make my own jersey. I always tell that story to my 11 year old son who will start football next
year. Lori Paparteys, Oneonta, NY: I was 9 years old when Jack's son J.T. played Single A ball here as part of the 1989 Oneonta Yankees. We own a box seat along the first baseline. One night we were walking to our box and noticed someone sitting there. As we got closer, it was none other than Jack Snow! He was as polite as you can be. Soft spoken and all. He sat with us for a few games chatting, taking pictures and all. Nice as could be. I'm so glad to have had the opportunity to meet him. I'll always cherish those memories of watching J.T. play minor league ball...sitting next to the greatest receiver I've ever seen. God Speed Jack. Thanks for the memories. Niles Yantchook, Roanoke, Va.: For the first part of my life I grew up knowing the Snow family as a whole in Seal Beach, CA where we live. I can briefly remember my time with the Snow’s. But recently my family has been putting old family films onto DVD and I was thrown back to the days of playing in the court with family, friends, and the Snow’s. I am not claiming to know them personally, but from what I remember, and watched Jack was a good person. Not only did he have a great athletic career, he was a family man. It is rare to see a parent enjoying quality time with his children and wife. I just ran the Long Beach marathon this past year and to go home where we spent time running around the court, a time when it appear there was no problems in the world, and to a time of long last memories. I enjoy knowing friends or the people from my neighborhood have gone to better things in life. When I was living in Northern VA and Pittsburgh I would make the Oriole and Pirate games when JT was in town. It was great of him to take some time out to speak with me. As I said I do not claim to be great friends with the family, but it meant a lot to me as a boy growing up. I was proud and proud for the family. I would call my parents and tell them about my experiences. Those memories meant a lot to me and thank my blessings. Today I feel sad for the entire Snow Family. I tell you all that because I want people that Jack was not just a great athlete but a great person and father. Your in my thoughts and prayers. Dan Walker, Akron, Ohio: Back when Jack was playing football with the Rams, my brother decided to write to Jack and him how he was playing football and going to school. We really did not think that Jack would write back. But he did. He sent an autographed picture along with a letter encouraging my brother to work hard at both football and school. He stressed that it was more important to concetrate on school than football. It was great advice and great of him to take time to write back. Michael Downey, Pasadena, Mary.: As a Rams fan for 33+ years, I am truly saddened to learn of the passing of one of my childhood heros, the great Jack Snow. As a youth, I too, became enamored with those horned helmets lining up for the next play. I loved the Fearsome Foursome, but my two favorites were Roman and Jack. My best friend and I were frequently playing in pickup football games after school, always tackle!, and since he was the quarterback, he was Roman and me playing wide receiver, naturally I was Jack. We even made up our own fantasy Rams games when the two us were praticing - "...and #18 Roman Gabiel throws a long bomb to #84 Jack Snow - COMPLETE - TOUCHDOWN!!! You will be missed, buddy... Nilas Bauer, Sherman Oaks, Calif.: I learned about the game of football from Jack Snow. I started going to football games in 1969 with my Dad for a father-daughter bonding. The first pass from Gabriel to Snow, I was hooked. I have been a dedicated Rams fan since that day. We had season tickets in the infamous West End of the Coliseum, we would arrive 90 min. early just to watch the guys practice. While the other players visited & waved at people, Jack always had a special wave just for his grandmother. Some news stories call him an "ex-Ram". That is SO WRONG. Jack retired after he was cut by the Rams, rather than try to get on another team. He was and always will be a Ram. One of the happiest days of my life was watching "our" team win the Super Bowl with my Dad. I even subscribed to Sirius radio, just so I could hear Jack's commentary on the games that I couldn't go to St. Louis for. My team will never be the same. Thanks, Jack, I will miss you! Tami Harrison, Collinsville, Ill.: I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Snow and I feel very lucky for having had that opportunity. I got the impression that Mr. Snow really enjoyed life. He made everyone feel comfortable when he spoke with them and you walked away feeling you had gained a new friend. Jack Snow will be missed by everyone he's touched. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. Leon Proffitt, Virginia Beach, Va.: I remember watching Jack Snow and trying to emulate him when I played high school football. He was a great player and an often overlooked receiver. He could always catch the ball in traffic and when the Rams needed a big play they could always go to Snow. I even wore number 84 in high school in honor of him. I knew he was still with the Rams family but wondered how he was doing. The Rams have lost one of their best. Thomas Shane, Sacramento, Calif.: I was very sad to hear of the passing of my uncle jack last night. He taught me when I was younger the importance of hard work and the "take no shortcuts" aproach to life. I remember many summer vacations with him telling stories about sports and asking him endless questions about his career as a football player both with the Rams and Notre Dame. My wife and I just recently had a little boy which we proudly named Jack. My families thoughts and prayers or with Michelle, JT, and Staphanie. I find peace knowing that uncle jack is now with my aunt carol. Jill Bauer, Columbia, Ill.: The first time I met Jack Snow was at a benefit golf tournament right after he got his Super Bowl XXXIV ring. He happily let anyone who asked try it on! I couldn't believe it when he handed me the ring and let me post for a picture with it! Last year I was lucky to be there when the Greater St. Louis Quarterback Club roasted Jack. Most of his family was there and his son J.T. was part of the panel of roasters, as well as many from the Rams' organization. It was clear how much everyone who knew him, loved and respected him. He will be greatly missed in St. Louis. Tim Wike, Belleville, Ill.: Two years after the Rams won the Superbowl, I was at the Rams fan appreciation day at the Dome. Jack was walking around the Dome with the microphone, commentating while the practice was going on. He got down to the south end zone where I was sitting and started talking to the fans. Someone asked him to see his Superbowl ring. He held it up so we could all see it. Then, some woman asked if she could try it on and I thought to myself, no way he lets that thing go up into the stands. All of a sudden, he hands it up to her. I could not believe how trusting and fan friendly he was. Jack will be missed by all. Kip Keeton, Ashland, Ore.: I have been a Ram fan since 1962, when my best friend chose the Rams for our 5th grade flag football team name. Jack Snow became my favorite Ram soon after. I recall a couple of times in the 69 season when Snow came up big and snagged some key passes for the Rams against the Colts. I remember choosing the #84 my senior year in High School Football because of Jack Snow. My deepest sympathies to the Snow family. Jack was my Hero... Gabriel Huitron, Anaheim, Calif.: My hero as a little kid was Roman Gabriel. I used to go to the Colesium in LA with my dad and his buddies to see Gabe to Snow with that awesome over the back catch. He would catch from straight over his head. But one great memory was when the Rams got together at Cal state Fullerton for the Lumar Lundy Benefit the last year our guys were in Anaheim. Us fans were swarming all over old and of that time players. I got the privilege to introduce Jack to my son as THE favorite receiver of my chidhood hero. He was so nice and patient with all. He took time for everybody. He probably signed and photo'd nonstop for hours. He was nothing but class and great for my son to see! Number 18 to 84 forever in my minds eyes!!!!!!!!!!!!! Jon Minicky, Chesterfield, Mo.: I'm too young to remember Mr. Snow's playing days, but I do remember him quite a bit. He gave a speech at my high school during a Father/Son banquet, talking about the importance of Father/Son relationships and answering any and all questions the crowd had. But my biggest memory is during the NFC championship game in 2000. Mike Bush had the call as Kurt Warner through a touchdown pass to Ricky Proehl. I could hear Mr. Snow celebrating in the background on the radio. That truly showed that he was just as much of a fan of the game and the Rams as we all are. Thank you, Mr. Snow, you had a voice none of us will soon forget. Patrick Wilson, Moreno Valley, Calif.: The passing of Jack Snow gives me a very heavy heart. I was 17 years old (I am 55 now),when I got to go to my very first NFL game. The third play of the game had me hooked on professional football forever. After receiving the opening kick-off at the LA Memorial Coliseum, the Rams were penalized and backed up to about their own 2 1/2 yard line. Second down resulted in a no gain running play. On third down Roman Gabriel dropped back nearly to the back of the end zone. Streaking down the right side of the field was a lone wide receiver..with about a 5 yard lead on the safety. In one huge play, Roman Gabriel hit Jack Snow, on the fly at about the 45 yard line...Jack never stopped and raced into the end zone for the first score of the game. A game the Rams went on to win that Sunday in LA. Will Jack Snow be missed? He certainly will be by this 55 year old "baby boomer" that can truly appreciate the efforts of a great competitor and outstanding role model. All my best to his family and the Rams organization for an irreplaceable loss.Thanks for the memory Jack! Coleman Tokei, Vancouver, BC: I was in ninth grade at Port Colborne High School in 1967 when I fell in love with the horns. The Rams had a QB with the neatest name.....Roman Gabriel, who threw long bombs to this WR "who had never been caught from behind".....Jack Snow. Guess who I was every time we played touch football, eh? By 12th grade we were all playing High School Football, driving cars and dating girls......BUT we we were still huge NFL fans. Early that year, the 1970 season, Jimmy Calla, our big Italian DT told me he thought he knew where we could get a couple of tickets for the Bills-Rams game (our town was only 20 minutes across the Niagara River from Buffalo), but we'd have to pay "slightly over face value." I was like........"C'mon Jimmy, like let's find these tickets..........like yesterday!!!!!!" I borrow my mom's 1966 Pontiac Laurentian and Jimmy directs me to this Pool Hall.........(in a bad part of town). It's 9 AM on a beautiful sunny September Saturday morning. I'm in my normal knock-around weekend wear......... blue jeans, T-shirt and adidas............Jimmy is wearing a sports jacket, dress slacks, and an open neck dark shirt.........plus his hair is combed and he's cleaning the smudges off his perpetually smeared dark rimmed glasses as we park my mom's car behind an old Buick WITH NO WHEELS!!!! Jimmy says, "When we go in, let me do the talking. I've got the money and you and I can settle up later." Jimmy Calla was a HUGE guy, but very soft spoken. We were in the same Math class a couple of years ago, and we knew each other from football, but the way he took charge right before we went into the Pool Hall kinda floored me. Anyway, we go from bright sunlight into this half darkened, smoke filled room full of guys who all seem to have scars, missing teeth or bandages on their faces. There must be twenty or so guys in the pool hall and when we open the door and walk in.........it's one of those moments like in the movies where everybody stops talking and looks up to see who's coming in. Suddenly I feel like I'm wearing a pair of lead boots like those old deepsea divers used to ...........and I am moving about their same speed too.......also, I keep getting mental images of an AztecBronze Pontiac Laurentian with no wheels, engulfed in flames. I just look around the room looking for a familiar (yeah, right ) or friendly face.........no luck. Finally, after about ten seconds (which seemed like a lifetime), Jimmy spots these his two "Yugoslavian buddies" Frank and Drago, doing shots and beer chasers over in a corner (did I mention Pool Halls were not licensed establishments in 1970's Ontario????? )...........anyway, I get introduced, and after a couple of tense seconds they ask where I live and tell tell them "Main Street.....not far from Grisnick's" (I took a shot at mentioning the Grisnick's because old Joe Grisnick was this Serbian immigrant guy, who like my Hungarian immigrant dad, made his own wine in barrel-lots and picked up his grapes every October at the same freight depot.....Grisnick, like every other DP in the area worked at the local Nickel Refinery, except unlike everybody else, Mr. Grisnick had a brand new Cadillac every two years.......nobody knew how. Anyway.........Drago, the bigger one, asks "Joe Grisnick?".....I nod, and he says something in Serbian to Frank, they laugh, clink glasses and toss down another shot of rye. They ask if we want a drink and Jimmy, most respectfully declines. Pretty soon, the tickets are out, the money flashed and exchanged and we're out of the little den of inequity. Jimmy tells me we're lucky that the two tickets came available because Drago's cousin was getting out of Prison that day and they'd be partying away too late to make the Football Game the next day. We have tickets high up in the corner of War Memorial Stadium, but to me, they were two golden tablets encrusted with gemstones.............we were going to see the Rams..........LIVE!!!!!!!! The next day, early, Jimmy and I got to the Stadium (aka "The Rockpile" as Buffalo native Ron Jaworski called it.....in fact, the Location Scout Team for the Robert Redford Movie, THE NATURAL, deemed Buffalo's War Memorial Stadium, America's oldest standing remaining sports stadium in 1982......and the whole movie was filmed in Buffalo!!!!!!!)..........anyway, my first memory was seeing CBS Sports Announcer (and idiot savant) Bill Mazur interviewing some guy in a suit (live, with those big TV Cameras rolling) about 12 inches from where we were standing ("security" hadn't been invented yet?)...........Mazur had earlier earned the wrath of all Canadian Sports fans when he, in the midst of one of his patented brain farts, introduced Parry Sound's finest, the legendary Bobby Orr, to a National TV audience as "The Golden Golden" ...........what a maroon!!!!!!!!!! Chicago's Bobby Hull was known as the Golden Jet...........so Mazur calls Bobby Orr, THE GOLDEN GOLDEN ...... ..........anyway, the Rams come out to practice and the first guy I see, in our end zone, tossing the ball back and forth with backup LB and former Notre Dame teamate John Pergine is guess who??????????? Number 84, (which is also my High School Jersey Number!!! , from Notre Dame, 6'2", 190 lbs, the sure-handed speedster who's never been caught from behind.............anyway, I run over and get about twenty feet or so away.........I am so excited, I get out my Kodak Instamatic camera and yell out........"HEY, JACK!!!!!"........he looks over curiously.........he has the ball in his hand.........and I yell, "SMILE".........and he poses as though he's catching the ball and he has this big smile.........I yell "THANK YOU!!!!!!" .......and he nods.........and I go running to where Jimmy Calla is watching the Fearsome Foursome go through their pregame drills and I exclaim, "I TALKED TO JACK SNOW......I TALKED TO JACK SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" The Rams came in with a very banged up offense. Dick Bass was out, Les Josephson was out, Tommy Mason......yet another knee surgery.........so George Allen started rookie RB Willie Ellison #33 and rookie TE Pat Curran #88 in the backfield...........the offense struggled but Bruce Gossett kicked 4 FGs as we won 19-0. But my greatest memory of that day..........my first live Rams game..........was NOT the outcome..............it was rather, the courtesy, the class, and the professionalism showed to a young, hyper-excited Canadian stranger by a REAL PRO..........JACK SNOW. Now some three and a half decades later, Jack is going into a fight a little banged up where he may have to struggle some to make it through. I pray that just like the Rams did back on that September day in Buffalo so many years ago, that our friend Jack finds the strength of will and the spirit of resolve to win his fight and come out at the other end. God's Speed, Jack Snow! Brian Smejkal, Simi Valley, Calif.: My wife and I made our first trip to St. Louis this past October to see the Rams play the New Orleans Saints. It was for our 10 year wedding anniversary. I have been a die-hard Rams' fan since 1983. I remember listening to Jack on the radio here in Los Angeles before the Rams moved to St. Louis. I always enjoyed listening to Jack. My wife and I were fortunate to meet Jack prior to the game with the Saints. It was nice to see someone that I admired for so long was also so nice to meet. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jack and his family. Joseph Rodriguez, Jacksonville, Fla.: The passing of one of
the Rams great receiver Jack Snow has hit here in Florida as well. I'm a 4th
generation Los Angeles Rams fan and I remember listening to my grandfather speak
of the Roman Gabriel and the Jack Snow connection of the 60's. Anywhere that
Roman Gabriel threw it was sure that it would land in the hands of the great
Jack Snow. Run patterns up the middle, down the sideline or simply an open field
catch. His speed after the catch was amazing to watch and it would only be
somewhat cheated to explained with words my grandfather would say, but to watch
Jack run was truly poetry in motion. Listening to my grandfather speak about
Jack Snow made it sound like he was speaking of one of his children or
grandchildren. He was very proud of the Los Angeles Rams speacial receiver that
carried wings on his feet as he referred to Mr. Snow. Listening to stories of
Mr. Snow was great and I still remember staying up late on Saturday
Nights/Mornings around 2:30am or 3:00am and l! I got a chance to meet Jack Snow in July of 1993 when the Los Angeles Rams
had their meet and greet the players or Rams Fan day where you got a chance to
get autographs,take pictures and talk with the current players. I walked around
with the old blue & white horns Rams helemt on that July day. My grandfather
had passed it on to me and it old but clean without nothing on it. And I have to
say that my grandfather would be proud to know that the very first autograph on
my old blue & white rams helmet was of Jack Snow. I never planned to have
anyone autograph that helmet and I remember walking through Anahiem Stadium and
meeting players when from somewhere from the old Angels dugout I heard someone
yell, "Hey kid give my helmet back"! I looked down to see Mr. Jack Snow standing
waiving at me with a big genuine smile. On that day I took a picture with Mr.
Snow and spent a few minutes with him talking about those great moments in the
60's when the Fearsome Foursome ruled the fiel! Mike Miller, Sacramento, Calif.: My Mom attended School with Jack Snow at St. Anthony's High School in Long Beach California. Growing up I heard lots of stories about about how good he was both on an off the field. He was a great example of how someone should be both on and off the playing field. I was lucky enough to go with my Mom to a few of her High School reunions and had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Snow and playing catch with his son JT. I spoke to my Mom when I first heard of his passing and she was struck with sadness. 62 after all is not an old age. By todays standards it's a young age. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. He was truly a great human being and will be missed. Ray Bolton, Bellingham, Mass.:I did have the plaeasure of watching Jack Snow play but I was very young. He was my favorite player on the Rams growing up as a fan in Ma. I was born in LA and have been a fan since 1968. I had the plaeasure of meeting Jack Snow for the first time in Buffalo in 1998. The Rams were loading up the bus and I was standing about 5 feet from him and introduced myself to him. I thanked him for being such a big part of my life growing up and he invited me under the ropes to talk with him. We reminisced about the old teams and if he still talked with Roman Gabriel at all. He said He did quite often as Roman was the color man for the Panthers. I asked if I could have a picture taken with him and he was more than happy to do it. He mad me feel really special when other friends tried to jump into the picture and Mr. Snow told them in not so friendly terms that this was my picture! I felt like a million bucks. I was so proud. I felt like I was part of the Rams family. I later sent that picture to Mr. Snow and he autographed it for me and I have it on my wall with his playing card inside of the frame. I cherish that photo and it is a conversation piece to anyone fan or not who comes into the room. I made it a point to see him in 2001 when the Rams came here to New England. I re-introduced myself to him and he remembered me. We talked for a short period and he was as nice as could be. Number 84 will live on in my life as I'm sure with all rams fans who knew him or of him. I am looking forward to having the chance to meet his son J.T. as he is the newest member of the Red Sox and I look forward to telling him how grateful I am to have met him and how his Dad made me feel proud to be a Rams fan and a Jack Snow Fan. I will never forget #84! God Rest his Soul. Nick Mirabile, Waltham, Mass.: I am happy to be over 50 years old for once in my life because I was able to have the pleasure of watching one of my childhood heroes, Mr. Jack Snow. When I was growing up in Massachusetts, my friends and I would play football and I would pretend to be Jack Snow. I was never caught from behind, just like his football card stated on the back. I remember watching him with my Dad on our black and white TV. Dad was a NY Giants fan and I became a Ram fan because I was an "Aries". Dad passed on in 2001, and now another hero of mine is gone too. I hope to see some of my other favorites (Gabe,Deacon,and Merlin)reminisc about Mr. Snow. I'm glad he got to see the Rams win a Super Bowl, although they should have won at least one more. And finally, when I go to the Red Sox games this year, I'll be cheering especially loud for their new first baseman. Thanks for the memories Mr. Snow. Scott Dean, Bryan, Ohio: I have been a RAMS fan for 35 years and Jack Snow was my first RAMS idol. He will always be my all-time favorite RAMS player. Anway, about 8 years agao I was trying to get in contact with someone at RAMS park about sending a Jack Snow football card for Mr. Snow to sign. I got the receptionist and explained my problem, she told me he was in a meeting and I said I don't want to bother him about an autographed I just want to know if I could send one to get autographed and I needed an address. She puts me on hold and next thing I know I hear a mans voice on the other end...it was Jack Snow. I about flipped. I apologized over and over that I didn't mean to take him away from his meeting I was just looking for an address to send the card...but he wouldn't have any of it. He just enjoyed talking to a fan. He told me send it out no problem and he would get it signed and sent back. I thanked him again and hung up. I have my autographed Jack Snow card framed in a plaque. It doesn't seem like much but it meant a lot to me. That's the way I'll remember him as guy who took the time for the fans. God bless you Jack Snow. John Paul Arroyo, Pasadena, Calif.:When I was 6yrs old my dad took me to my first Rams game at the LA Colliseum. My most vivid memory of that game was Jack Snow. What a game he had! He had at least 8-9 catches all of them seemed to be sensational grabs. My dad was a big fan of Mr. Snow, and had funny comments after almost every catch. "Number 84 is slow, but he catches everything" he would repeat to me after the play was over. The game was tied late in the fourth quarter. The Rams driving right towards us in our end zone bleacher seats. Jack's final catch that day was the game winning T.D. caught literaly right in front of us, in the corner of the end zone. The celebration of the Ram offense seemingly mere feet away. The perfect ending to the game and hard work paying off for Mr. Snow. Jack didnt outrun many defenses to the end zone but he still managed to end up there when it counted. This first lasting memory has stood with me and the start of my love of the Rams for over 32 yrs. So with a tear in my eye, I say goodbye. The birth of a six year old's love for his team began with Jack Snow. Thanks Jack, I'll never forget that sunny so cal day. You like all my childhood LA Ram heroes will be with me always. God Bless, I know in heaven you outrun all the defenders to the end zone after every catch. Jeff Newton, Shadow Hills, Calif.: I met Jack Snow once back in about 1967 when I was five years old. Several of the Los Angeles Rams players did an appearance at the Peppertree Restaurant in Northridge, CA. Deacon Jones, Merlin Olsen, Roman Gabriel, and Jack Snow showed up. All four were big, tall guys and seemed like giants to a little kid like me. I didn't realize that a man as tall and built as Jack Snow could move fast enough to play wide receiver. The Rams had a great defense in those days and wore all-white home uniforms with royal blue trim (no gold on the unis then). I've followed Jack Snow's career ever since, and really loved his commentary on the radio (before the Rams moved away to St. Louis). The Good Lord has taken him home now, and I can't believe it! He was far too young. It seems like staph infections are running rampant these days. What a shame to have lost such a glib and knowledgeable fellow like Jack Snow at only 62. May God bless Mr. Snow's soul and protect the entire Snow family. James Huguez, San Bernardino, Calif.: When I read that number 84 passed away it quickly brought back memories of this young kid hiding under the blankets with his radio to listening to Dick Enberg do the play by play for his favorite team from the L.A.Coliseum. They played the Rams preseason games at night. I was supposed to be asleep, but I wasn't. Jack Snow was one of the reasons. The sure hands, the smooth route, and the good speed to finish it all off. He will be missed by Los Angeles ,and St Louis Ram fans alike. Thank you Mr. Snow for all the wonderful memories. Hank Overmann, St. Louis, Mo: I believe that Jack Snow epitomized everything that the Rams were before they got here. He was Mr. Cool, a "Raminzer" and without a doubt the Ram's biggest fan. It truely showed throughout his time here. Whether he was on the radio, or on TV, Jack was without a doubt "Mr. RAM". I am truly glad that the people in St Louis had the opportunity to enjoy what a true Ram was. HE WILL BE MISSED. He was truey the last LA RAM. Michael Higgins, Sacramento, Calif.: This is to the family of Jack Snow I grew up a niner fan that lived in Santa Barbara. Needless to say I was out of place. One thing that I noticed was a receiver for the Rams named Jack Snow; I loved his pose for the trading card. A long while later I heard about a young player named J T Snow. I was able to watch another athlete carry himself in the same professional manner and also have some of the softest hands in the business. With all of the things that have been said about him and the way his son carries himself it is plain to see that the world lost a true human being.
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