Bradley “Brad” Snowden, 73, passed away on March 26, 2025.

Born in Seattle, Washington, Brad spent his early years across the Pacific Northwest, living in Washington, Oregon, and California. In 1964, at the age of 14, he moved to Alaska — the place that would ultimately become his lifelong home.

He attended university in Hawaii for a time, but Alaska drew him back. Brad returned north, where he embarked on a varied and adventurous career. His early work included fishing and heavy construction across the state. In 1975, he joined Teamsters Union Local 959 and operated heavy equipment on major infrastructure projects in and around Seward and Alaska, including the expansion of the Seward Highway and the extension of Nash Road across Resurrection Bay.

Brad’s true passion emerged when he joined the family business at the New Seward Hotel in the 1970s. Throughout the 1980s and beyond, he helped transform the town’s hospitality landscape. He built and expanded several notable properties, including Pier 34 in 1987, the first of many small buildings along the harbor boardwalk; the Best Western Hotel Seward (now Hotel Seward) and the New Seward Saloon in 1989; and the beloved Cabin on the Cliff. Brad was a visionary entrepreneur with a boundless imagination and a deep love for Seward.

His dreams often outpaced the hours in the day — but that never stopped him from dreaming bigger.

In his younger years, Brad found joy on the water — boating across Resurrection Bay — and in travels to sun-soaked destinations like Hawaii and Mexico. He also cherished lively nights out and the vibrant energy of social gatherings. In later life, he became increasingly passionate about politics, even participating in campaigns for Alaska’s Governor races. Still, nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his children, grandchildren, and lifelong friends. Brad will be remembered for his bold spirit, tireless creativity, and enduring love for his community.

Brad is survived by his son, Paul Snowden; his daughter, Shanna Springer; son-in-law, Jonathan Springer; daughter-in-law, Stephanie Durham; and his beloved grandchildren, Chloe, Annabelle, Elijah, and Jotham.

In keeping with his wishes, Brad was cremated. A celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2025 in Seward, Alaska. Details will be announced at a later date. Please send stories and condolences to Paul (oceanview@gmail.com) and Shanna (shannasspringer@gmail.com).

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the hospice nursing staff for their compassionate care.