Tim Sneller, a former lawmaker and veteran of the Michigan Legislature, dies at age 68

LANSING — Former state Rep. Tim Sneller, D-Burton, who was a candidate to return to the state House in the 68th District, died Thursday, legislative officials announced Friday. He was 68.

Lawmakers from both parties praised Sneller, who was a longtime legislative staffer before he was first elected to the Legislature in 2016. Sneller served three two-year terms, representing the 50th District through 2022, and was able to run again this year due to a constitutional amendment, approved by voters in 2022, that allows lawmakers to serve up to 12 years in one chamber.

Details on Sneller's cause of death and funeral arrangements were not immediately available.

"His death is an incredible loss for our state," said U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Township.

Sneller was openly gay and praised as a champion for LGBTQ rights.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she was heartbroken to learn of the death of a man she considered a friend.

"As one of the first openly gay Michiganders to serve in the state Legislature, he fought hard to expand civil rights and build a more welcoming Michigan for all," Whitmer said in a news release.

The Michigan Legislative LGBTQ+ caucus issued a statement that said Sneller provided mentorship and guidance for LGBTQ+ officeholders. "For all of us, he served as an unwavering example of a true public servant," the statement said.

Sneller was the only Democrat on the Aug. 6 primary ballot in the 68th House District, which includes parts of Genesee and Oakland counties. Officials at the Bureau of Elections are "aware of the situation," and "discussing options with the clerks involved," Cheri Hardmon, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of State, said late Friday.

State Rep. David Martin, R-Davison, the only Republican on the ballot in the 68th District, issued a statement praising Sneller. "While we found ourselves on opposite sides of the political aisle, I always respected his dedication to public service," Martin said.

Sneller graduated from Bentley High School in Burton and worked at GM in Flint while pursuing a bachelor's degree in political science from U-M Flint, according to his campaign website.

He worked for decades as an aide to several Genesee County lawmakers, including former state representative and senator Bob Emerson and former Sen. John Cherry.

House Speaker Joe Tate, D-Detroit, said Sneller was known for his work ethic and other qualities.

"Tim was a fixture in Democratic politics for decades," Tate said in a news release. "He was the salt of the earth and known for his humor and indelible spirit."

Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. Follow him on X, @paulegan4.