Services will be held Wednesday and Thursday in Potsdam for retired State Trooper Michael Snell, who died last week at the age of 56 from illness attributed to his service at the World Trade Center in Manhattan following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.  

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced flags will be lowered on state buildings across New York on Thursday to honor Snell, who passed away May 20, according to his obituary

“First Sergeant Snell honorably served the people of New York State for 23 years, making the ultimate sacrifice for his fellow New Yorkers when it mattered the most,” Hochul said. “On behalf of New York State, I extend my deepest gratitude for First Sergeant Snell’s contribution to the protection of our state, and send my heartfelt condolences to his family.”

Hochul attended a ceremony earlier this month when the names of 60 New York police officers who died from Ground-Zero-related illnesses were added to the New York State Police Officers Memorial in Albany, which brought those trooper deaths to a total of 504.

Snell retired from the State Police Troop B Headquarters in Ray Brook as a first sergeant two years ago. He is survived by his wife, Tammy Snell, their four children, family and friends.

Calling hours will be held from 3-7 p.m. Wednesday at the Parishville Center Orchard in Potsdam. A funeral service will occur at 1 p.m. Thursday at The Stables in Potsdam.