Former Car-Fi owner dies

Courtesy GreenlawnFuneralHome.com

Rick Snelson was active in the business and nonprofit worlds.

Former Car-Fi owner Rick Snelson died Dec. 31. He was 66.

His obituary posted to GreenlawnFuneralHome.com does not list a cause of death. Car audio, video and electronics market industry publication CE Outlook reported he had cancer.

Founded in 1986, Car-Fi provides mobile electronics, car audio, video, remote starts and other accessories at locations in Springfield and Nixa. Snelson's obituary indicates he recently retired.

Missouri secretary of state records and Car-Fi's profile with the Better Business Bureau indicate Don Fleury is now the owner. Fleury, who owns Creative Audio, could not be reached for comment by deadline.

With Car-Fi, Snelson was known for radio and television commercials over the past 35 years. Jingles such as "Eenie Meenie Miney Car-Fi," recorded by the Ozark Mountain Daredevils, were among prominent ad spots, according to his obituary.

Snelson additionally founded the nonprofit Play it Forward SWMO, an organization directed by Daredevils band member Ruell Chappell. The nonprofit donates and buys instruments for children in southwest Missouri.

Snelson's obituary indicates Play it Forward SWMO has established a memorial scholarship fund in his name to help students pursuing musical education pay tuition.