The 1988–89 season would be a homecoming for Snepsts, as he signed a free-agent contract with the Canucks and returned to Vancouver. Now a depth defender, he was a steadying influence as the team set a club record for fewest goals against. That year Canucks fans began to chant "Har-Old!" from the stands, something that will follow him for the rest of his career and sometimes shouted to later players such as Harold Druken. Late in the 1989–90 season he was dealt to the St. Louis Blues to add experience for the playoffs. He played out his final season with the Blues, during which he played in his 1000th NHL game, before retiring in 1991. He was one of the last players to play in the NHL without a helmet. After his retirement only five helmetless players remained in the league.