William P. Smeal, 18, of Snyder, died Saturday, August 12, 2023 as the result of a motor vehicle accident.  Funeral Mass will be 10:30am on Wednesday, August 16 at St. Leo’s Catholic Church in Snyder with Rev. Keith Rezac as celebrant.  The funeral service will be live streamed at the Snyder Fireman’s Ballroom and on the Stokely Funeral Home Facebook page at facebook.com/stokelyfuneralhome.  Due to the size of St. Leo’s Catholic Church, we are asking that non-relatives of Will attend the live stream at the Ballroom.  Burial will be at St. Leo’s Cemetery with lunch following at the Snyder Firemen’s Ballroom.  Visitation will be Tuesday from 3:00pm to 7:00pm with a Vigil Service at 7:00pm at the Snyder Firemen’s Ballroom.  Family will be present at the visitation from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.  Memorials may be made to Snyder Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department or to a scholarship fund that will be set up in William’s name.  Arrangements by Stokely Funeral Home.

Born on July 18, 2005, to Patrick and Monica (Peplinski) Smeal in Fremont, Will’s bright light was extinguished far too soon. He was a graduate of West Point-Beemer High School, Class of 2023, where he had thrived both academically and personally. It was in his beloved shop class, particularly in woodworking, that his passion for creating with his hands truly blossomed.  Will also earned certificates in welding from Northeast Community College.  His dedication was evident in his employment with Dustin Holtz, where he poured his heart into every task he took on. His commitment did not go unnoticed, as he was honored with an award at school for his exceptional work ethic.

Beyond his dedication to his studies and work, Will found solace and joy in the great outdoors. Fishing and camping were among his favorite pastimes.  Whether it was spending quality time with his loved ones, attending pickup pulls with his dad and uncles, or simply lending a helping hand, Will’s presence was a constant source of warmth and comfort.  Will was known for his respectfulness and his innate willingness to assist others. His dogs Glizzy and Arrow were his pride and joy.  Will would say, “Hey Sonny” to his father, Pat – a greeting that brightened his father’s days and will forever resonate in their hearts.

Survivors include his parents, Patrick and Monica Smeal; grandparents, Loretta Smeal of West Point, Duffy Peplinski of Dodge, and Joyce Petersen of Norfolk; bother, Clinton Smeal of Bennington and his children Promise and Micah; sister, Lindsay (Eric) Poland of Fremont and their children Baxter, Lexi, and Peyton; and brother, Clint (Desirae) Hansen of Gretna and their children Remi, Colt, and Hallie (all pups); aunts and uncles, Cheryl (Richard) Kreikemeier, John (Peggy) Smeal, Mike (Gaye) Smeal, Anita (John) Kreikemeier, Tom (Sally) Smeal, Joyce (Albion) Janecek, Joe Smeal, Beth (Glen) Schuetze, Arnold Peplinski, Deb (Russ) Reppert, Michelle (Brad) Luebbert, Tina (Glen) Bales, Nicole (Jason) Krause, and Andrew Peplinski; and many cousins.  He is preceded in death by his grandfather, William “Bill” Smeal, and aunt, Janelle Robart.