I am trying to find a more complete family tree on my father’s side. Naturally – I do have enough information on him – but as to others that I will mention, I basically have the names only – I am with holding names of living relations, in that I have not obtained their permission to post this
My Father’s name was Talivalds Snikeris. Born in Ventpils or the Ventspils area on August 9, 1921.
His father’s name was Adolfs (and later Kristaps) – by his first wife (Don’t have name) there were 3 children – Ausma, Talivalds & Harijs (both T & H are deceased – and I understand A likely is as well)– By his second wife (don’t have name) there were 2 children – both female and still living in Latvija – by his third wife (Alice) there were 2 children – 1 male & 1 female – both still living in Latvija.
Adolfs’ father’s name was Jukums – I understand that there was another son Vilis ( who may or may not have died in Siberia), possibly a son Otto (who may have been executed) – and apparently other kids as well.
As you can see – I certainly don’t have much – but even this information took years to compile.
As to the living Latvian relations that I have – they do not know the information – in that they were separated by various circumstances during the war years – and in the case of one – she was only born after My grandfather’s return from Siberia.
Even the issue of my grandfather’s name remains outstanding. He was most certainly born Adolfs. Some believe Kristaps was his middle name – others maintain he did not have a middle name. At any rate – he was known as Kristaps when he returned from Siberia, and is buried under that name.
I understand his return was only due to the general amnesty provided upon Stalin’s death. He was however under house arrest even after his return, and apparently may not have died of natural causes. A great deal of mystery.
My ultimate goal is to find relatives stemming from grandfather’s siblings.
Of Vilis I do know that one of his sons had been sent to Siberia as well – I do not what became of him and do not have a name. I was also told in a letter once that Vilis had died in “zirgstalli” – I do not know if that was an area – or that he literally died in a horse stable.
I had only heard that Otto was executed – possibly by firing squad at some time of one of the Soviet occupations. Not much info – do not know if he was married etc.
Even I question much of the information that I have - in that some is rumour only - other is speculation only. Hopefully someone out there can provide more - and more accurate info - thanks.
