March 11, 2025
In Loving Memory
Celebrating the Life of Our Dad – Robert J. Snyder, Sr. Age 99 of Alexandria.
It is with heavy and loving hearts that we announce the passing of our dad while in VA hospice, in Murfreesboro, TN. He passed away quietly, as the day dawned on January 25, 2025.
Loved by family near and far, he was well cared for from when he stayed with his kids during the summer and with extra care for his last years, living with his children, Sue, in Michigan, and Bob and Denise, in Tennessee. He was gifted at cultivating friendships wherever he roamed and will be missed dearly.
He was baptized on his 98th birthday and attended St. Francis Cabrini Church in Lebanon, TN.
Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of Chester Snyder and Ruth Owen. As a young boy, he explored the Comstock area with his brother Owen “Bud” and sister, Carol. Bob survived his parents and siblings, his wife, Marion “Sam” Sweet, and his daughter, Judy.
He is survived by: Sue Snyder (Jim Faist), Bob Snyder, Jr. (Denise), Mary Jo Snyder Brown, Scott Coburn (Judy), and stepson, Kim Neeb (Sheri). Grandchildren include Michelle, Ron, Christine, Mikkel, Renee, Bryan, Sarah Joy, Dylan, Daniel, Rob, Joey, Haley, Ross, Carson, and Ian. He has 31 grands, 57 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grands, living to see 5 generations of Snyder men. He outlived his life-long, best friends, Frank Bell and Frank Sanders.
A 1943, Comstock High School graduate, he and his classmates continued to meet monthly until a few years ago. A veteran of the United States Navy, he served in World War II, off the coast of Florida. After returning to Michigan, he married and started work at Bell Telephone Company. He divorced at a time that was difficult for men, working two and three jobs to take care of his family. He went on to enjoy his job at the Upjohn Company, retiring in 1987. He was an avid reader, sharing his books with all, completed crosswords daily, fierce cribbage player, and enjoyed listening to music. He loved sitting on the deck overlooking Lake Michigan, the view of the Tennessee mountains, and the shores of the Atlantic in Cape Canaveral.
Born in the Silent Generation, he saw and experienced unprecedented change and world events including the great depression and technological advances.
How did he meet so many wonderful people? Friday happy hour at the Silver Bullet, a place to gather, eventually, known as the Wild and Crazy Bullet gang. Many parties and celebrations were hosted there. Bob enjoyed his Gold Wing motorcycle, traveling cross country, and considered himself a protector, enjoying female friendships in the most kind and honorable way. Sue, Judy, Bob, and MJ’s friends became his, and his became theirs. His hugs were legendary, embodying the warmth and love he shared. His kindness, wisdom, and generous spirit were a pillar of strength and a source of inspiration to those around him. His love will continue on, a legacy in the hearts of family and friends.
Cremation has taken place and there will be a private graveside service. He will also be taking a ride to Pikes Peak in honor of his memory, with his grandson, Ross.
Two life celebration services will be held:
Tennessee (March 23, 1:30 pm, Funeral Mass, Carmelite Center, Liberty, a celebration of life at the Snyder farm following.)
Michigan (May 30, 5:00 pm, military service, American Legion Post 49, South Haven, a celebration of life following.)
A member of the American Legion Post 49, he was given exceptional care by the staff at the VA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name, to the Alvin C. York Veteran’s Administration Medical Center or Tennessee Fisher House Foundation, Inc.