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Donald Snyder Obituary
As a lifelong Lehigh Valley resident born in Greenawalds, Don was proud to have spent his life engaged in various occupations and pursuits that allowed him to actively and personally give back to the local community. Don was honored to diligently represent the constituents of the Lehigh Valley's 134th Legislative District through 20 years of service in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives (1981 to 2000), including serving as House Republican Caucus Chairman from 1995 to 1996 and as House Majority Whip from 1997 until his retirement from the legislature. From 2000 to 2013, Don served as the President of Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC) where he was able to apply his knowledge and passion for education policy matters to oversee the growth of the College and meet the needs of an ever-evolving student body. His strong community service expanded outside of his formal occupations and into his work with organizations including serving on the boards of PBS 39, the Lehigh County Historical Society, Good Shepherd, the Boy Scouts of America Minsi Trail Council, and supporting numerous other organizations whose missions were focused on serving and improving the community through their work.
Don's belief in the immeasurable value of education was notable not only through actions taken via his professional endeavors but also through his own self-example, as he was a graduate of Parkland High School (1969), LCCC (1971), Penn State University (1973), Lehigh University (1976), Villanova University School of Law (1982), and the Dickinson School of Law (1989). His strong faith served as his guiding compass, and he appreciated the church's role in providing a steadfast community presence and fellowship. As a member of Jordan UCC, he held several leadership positions over the years. Don's exemplary life contained many triumphs and struggles. May his passion and courage inspire us all to love deeply, serve others, and live fully.
To his family, Don will be most remembered for his caring personality and sense of humor, the love and pride he held for his family, a strong work ethic, an appreciation for nature's wonders and working outdoors, a desire to genuinely connect and empathize with friends and strangers alike, and interests including collecting pieces for his large-scale trains with "putz," and travel.
Services will be held on Saturday, March 11 at Jordan UCC, 1837 Church Rd, Allentown, with calling hours from 9:00-11:30 AM, funeral at 11:30 AM. Private interment. Arrangements by Keller Funeral Homes, Inc., Fogelsville. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.KellerFuneralHomes.com.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network or the Lehigh County Historical Society, in care of the Funeral Home, PO Box 52, Fogelsville, 18051.
'We don't need to leave a legacy for him…he did it himself.'
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Memories and Condolences
for Donald Snyder
Sponsored by Keller Funeral Homes, Inc - Fogelsville.
Joe Kubiak
September 17, 2023
I just learned of Don´s passing through the Penn Stater. I have very found memories of Don as a friend on campus and a fellow member of several college clubs. Don always had time for everyone and was ready to spend time helping others no matter how busy he was. And he was an active guy! It was my pleasure to know Don, and I am so happy that he had a full and successful life. My condolences to all his family and friends.
Geri Sawicki
April 10, 2023
Dear Nancy and family,
John and I were sad to hear of Don's passing. Don was a dear friend, and I enjoyed working with him on the political scene and at LCCC. I admired him for his desire to always do the right thing, and his compassion for all people that he served. He made a difference in the Lehigh Valley and the state, as well as at LCCC. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Velia Rothrock
March 17, 2023
Dear Nancy and family, very sad to hear about Don’s passing. He’s was one of the nicest and down to earth person, a good friend to Bruce, me and our family and we will always remember him with love and respect. Stay strong.
Cynthia L Katz
March 14, 2023
I was moved and saddened at
news of Donald Snyder´s passing.
My father had the utmost regard for him.
Mr. Snyder was the consummate College President.
Moreover, as remembrances here attest, he seems to have accomplished it, served as distinguished Representative, and more, with humility, kindness and grace.
May his memory be a blessing.
With appreciation and heartfelt condolences,
Cindy Katz
Joanie
March 14, 2023
To Nancy, Shelly, Sean and extended family... sending prayers and condolences to all of you. We have quite a history of 50+ years of good times that will be remembered with love and joy, meeting in different states (& Spain) over the years. Rest in peace, Don.
Linda Woodin
March 14, 2023
Oh Nancy, I just became aware of this and I am SO SORRY for your loss. I remember Don, maybe even when you two were dating or newly married. He was always community minded and giving. But I know you were great companions and helpmates to each other and I always respected you two. I know you also lost your mother fairly recently and now Don. Oh how my heart goes out to you. Sending you and your family thoughts and hugs, my AHSN Alumni sister.
Patricia Riola
March 12, 2023
Many Condolences to the family. May Don Rest In Peace.
jan gulden
March 12, 2023
Thank you for your service as a Representative in our Legislature.
Jan D Gulden DMD
jan D,
Joe & Debbie Surdoval
March 12, 2023
Nancy and family, you have our deepest sympathy. We will greatly miss Don, but consider ourselves fortunate to have gotten to know him as a great friend. While we admired him as our state representative, always working tirelessly for the people of the Lehigh Valley, and then leading the growth and success of LCCC as its President, we´ve especially enjoyed the great times that we´ve had with Don and Nancy including European riverboat cruises and land trips, dinners and picnics, plays and movies, and game nights. We will always treasure those memories and wish the best for your family.
Joe & Debbie Surdoval
George McGinley
March 11, 2023
Nancy, please accept our sincere condolences for Don's passing. I knew Don through his brother Rich who worked in my office for many years. Don was one of the nicest people I have ever met. His kindness and gentle nature will never be forgotten. Rest in peace my friend.
George and Syd McGinley
Ann A. Wertman
March 11, 2023
Nancy and Family,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and all Don's loved ones. Cherish the memories and delight in the fulfilling role you played in the life of a dedicated public servant.
Randy Hartranft
March 11, 2023
prayers to the family
Joanne (Snyder) Ehrig
March 10, 2023
My sincerest condolences to the Snyder family. Growing up in Greenawalds when Don was a young boy, our families attended the same church and many activities. His parents would tease that they were "the other Snyder family" in Greenawalds. They were so nice and there is no surprise that people say the same about Donald. He certainly followed his parent's ways. What a wonderful career and legacy he leaves. May he be at peace having accomplished so much that his love will comfort you and be with you forever.
Bob Barthlow
March 9, 2023
Don was the fourth President of LCCC and I was the second. He deserves a lot of credit for all he did for the college. He took what Jack Berrier, the founding President, and I did, and continued to build the college even stronger to meet the needs of the community.
Bob Barthlow
Marysville, OH
Glenn and Kathy Kistler
March 9, 2023
Dear Nancy and family, it is with sadness that I read about the passing of Don. We had not seen him in many years- but have very fond memories of our times together with the Jaycees. Keep all of your memories close to your heart- and that may help you to navigate some difficult days ahead.
Nora Lawton
March 9, 2023
My sincerest sympathy to you you Nancy and your family. I haven't seen you in years but my prayers are for all of you
John Margraf
March 9, 2023
So sorry to hear of Don's passing. He spent his entire adult life in the service of his community and state and will be sorely missed. I will remember him most of all for being a truly nice man.
Wishing Nancy and his family strength in this difficult time.
Bruce & Jan Charles
March 9, 2023
Our sincere condolences to Nancy, Rich, Susan and your families in Don's passing. We will always look fondly in our years together in Jaycees and the good times we had while serving the Parkland community. May God bless you all during this difficult time.
Scott Lackman
March 9, 2023
I have known Don since 1969 when we graduated high school together. He was a person I am proud to call my friend. Don always shared his love, caring, friendship and his passion to everyone he touched. Always busy serving and helping people, Don never looked for accolades, just good positive results. I will miss Don. I am so proud he was part of my life for well over 50 years. Rest in peace my friend.
John Mecca
March 9, 2023
To the Family of Donald Snyder:
My sincere condolences for your loss of Donald.
He did so much for so many people in our community over the years with such dedication. I had the pleasure of knowing Don having seen him a few times in my office several years ago. As great of a man he was, he was one of the nicest and down to earth one could meet. He will surely be missed by so many for the special man he was.
May God bless his soul, and may he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
John J Mecca, MD
Cheryl Warmkessel
March 9, 2023
So sorry for your loss Nancy! I think I used to wait on you at CVS in the pharmacy! Cherish the memories that you had with husband! God bless you Nancy!!
George Charles Jr
March 9, 2023
I'm sad to see of Don's passing...he was a wonderful person. I had the pleasure, and friendship, to meet him in 1989 when I became a GOP county committeeman. We saw each other often. The last time that I saw him was at 7th and Hamilton while he was meeting Jane Baker about taking his seat in the House of Representatives...we all talked. Don was a pleasure to know, and he'll be missed. God bless you.
Dr. David Charles Smith
March 9, 2023
The members and friends of Jordan United Church of Christ extend our deepest sympathy and Christian love to Nancy, Schelly, John, Wyatt and Sydney, Sean, Claire and Graham, and the entire family at this time of loss. May the peace of the Risen Christ offer comfort and hope in the days ahead.
William (Bill) Kennedy
March 9, 2023
Nancy and family - Please accept my condolences on Don's passing. Don was genuinely one nicest and sincere persons I've known. He will be missed. As a member of law enforcement and an EMS volunteer I had many interactions with Rep. Snyder. He was always available and would assist in answering questions, getting information, etc. He was one of a few politicians I had high regard for. It was an honor to have known him.
Edwin Richard
March 8, 2023
I am so sorry to hear about Donald's passing. Grew up with him in Greenawalds. Always a very nice person. Loved his Christmas putz in the basement.
Ed Hein
March 8, 2023
My brother Doug and I were members of Boy Scout Troop 8 in Greenawalds and remember Richard and Donald's participation with BSA. I also served as President of the LCCC Alumni Association for over 10 years and saw the positive impact Donald had on our common Alma Mater. He was a great member of the community. My condolences go out to his family and friends.
Alice Bernhard
March 8, 2023
Don was a longtime friend we have a lot of years together in politics and community service. He will be missed by many. He struggled for many years but managed to endure. I will always cherish our friendship. Our deepest sympathy to his family.
Karen Yellin
March 8, 2023
Nancy, family and friends...
My condolences and thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Karen (Willey) Yellin
Jim Smoyer
March 8, 2023
Dearest Nancy and Family, I will always remember how hard Don worked at clearing your land for the construction of your new home, He was very determined as his life showed, God Bless All !
Ed Reibman
March 7, 2023
My condolences to Nancy and the Snyder family. I always respected Don. He was a good soul, a very decent guy and an honest, honorable and accomplished public servant. We ran against each other for judge. Although I won that election, I always thought Don got the better deal in the end when he became President of LCCC. You have good memories; cherish them.
Diane McDemus
March 7, 2023
During a third of my time teaching at Lehigh Carbon Community College, Don Snyder was president there. I feel very blessed to have served under Don's leadership. One thing that spoke volumes to me was that Don continually asked for input from those who served at LCCC. Don listened. He listened attentively and responded. If he then found it best to make adjustments, he did so. He even invited all of the employees of LCCC to his home on a couple of occasions. I will always remember how sincere and personable Don was. My thoughts and prayers are with Don´s family and loved ones.
With sincere sympathy,
Diane McDemus, Retired LCCC Professor
John Stevens
March 7, 2023
Sincere condolences, thoughts, and prayers to the Snyder family. How very fortunate that many are beneficiaries of Don´s dedicated life´s work to the community. May he rest in peace knowing he made a difference. Thank you. John and Anita Stevens
Dale & Lin Koch
March 7, 2023
Sorry to hear about Don's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and the family.
John Clauser
March 7, 2023
Mr. & Mrs. Snyder were friends of our family, mainly my Dad who did Photography for Donald.
He will be missed by all, and
Alma, Mark and myself
Margarita Rodriguez
March 7, 2023
My deepest condolences to the family. May he rest in peace. During my years at LCCC, he became our president and also our friend. RIP
Ken and Beth Sawyer
March 7, 2023
We are so sorry to hear about Don’s passing. We enjoyed getting to know him at Sean and Claire’s wedding.
Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Julie Garbacik
March 7, 2023
Dear Nancy and family, please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss. I was privileged to serve on Don´s staff at the House. He was a wonderful mentor and taught me the importance of always putting people first. He was a true public servant and will be missed.
Julie Garbacik
Don Hermany
March 7, 2023
It was a pleasure getting to know Don during our travels together. He certainly bore his medical struggles over the las few years with dignity. Instead of being sad that he is gone, let´s be glad he was here.
Wendy and Darrin Schlappich
March 7, 2023
Sue and Dennis and Family - Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. I had the pleasure of knowing Don. He was a special man and he will be missed. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time of loss.
Wendy and Darrin (Critter) Schlappich
Bob Nyce
March 7, 2023
Nancy and Family, Maria and I are very sad to learn of Don's passing. During my tenure in the PA House of Representatives and the time following Don's retirement, he always had the constituents he served first on his mind. He will be sorely missed by all of his friends and co-workers. Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time. Bob & Maria Nyce
Charlene Wilson
March 7, 2023
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Linda Slivka
March 7, 2023
I'm so sorry I'm unable to be there Saturday. I have so many good memories of Don growing up in Greenawalds. He was a good friend and man and I'm sorry for your loss. We never did get to see that video he was excited about.
Bill Brackbill
March 6, 2023
Don was an exceptional individual and did so much for the Lehigh Valley. My sympathy to the Snyder family. I had contact with him while he was a state legislator. He was helpful, honest in his attempts to do the best, and, at all times considerate of everyone.
Keith Williams
March 6, 2023
Well For Two Young Men Attending PHS, LCCC & Penn State Together We Were Fortunate To Have Excellent Role Models For Educators. That I Believe Inspired Us To Serve In The Way We Have. You And Nancy Shared Good Times With Myself And Judy. We Will Hold Those Close. Prayers For Your Family And Future Generations. Sincerely Keith E. Williams
Ralph and Lin LaSalle
March 6, 2023
I will alway remember Don as someone who genuinely care about other people and was a pleasure to get to know. From Iceland to Italy, we enjoyed many adventures traveling with Don and Nancy. We will miss him.
Denise and Leroy Dupert
March 6, 2023
Sympathy and condolences to the Snyder family. May you remember all the good times and reflect on what a great life Don led. May those memories help you thru your grief and sadness. RIP Don!!
Nancy Kelley
March 6, 2023
Don Snyder was President of LCCC during many of the years I worked there and the college expanded more under his vision than any other. He was very approachable, his door was always open to students, faculty and staff like myself - he made an effort to know us. There were no "airs" about him - he was down to earth and genuine. Most of all, he was humble and kind. It was never the same there after he retired, and my sincere condolences go out to his wife, family and friends.
Jacqueline Whitcomb
March 6, 2023
My sincere condolences to Don's family. He was a gentleman within the halls of the House. Kind, soft-spoken and dedicated. It was a pleasure knowing him.
Lucy Dries
March 6, 2023
Nancy and family, may God comfort you now, it was a pleasure to know and travel with Don and Nancy. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Lucy
Rich and Gina Grucela
March 6, 2023
Our sincere sympathy thoughts and prayers to Don´s entire family. It was an honor to serve with him and work together for the betterment of the Lehigh Valley. May he rest in God´s eternal peace.
Roy Reinard
March 6, 2023
Don was quite a guy and I am happy for the years I served with my friend in the legislature.One can’t say enough good things to describe the man.Kind and friendly to allA great loss and Condolences to his family.
Jeff Weil
March 6, 2023
I was one of Don’s classmates in high school. Even then he was notable for his quiet, warm, and sincere approach to school, friends, and community life. Never one to call attention to himself, Don was always concerned about others. He treated all with respect, friendship, and a rare humility of spirit. His was a life of never-ending growth and service - - almost from birth to death. I can only think how much better the world would be if we had more like him. May he rest in peace, and may the good he has done act to salve the grief of his family. Jeff Weil, PHS ‘69
Craig Poland
March 6, 2023
Don was an outstanding leader in the Lehigh Valley and cared deeply about his community and the organization’s he provided support to. I value the time spent working with him in support of Scouting. He will be missed.
Barbara (Unangst) Hoderman
March 6, 2023
I grew up with Donald and his family as our parents were very close friends. His passing is so sad, but I have lots of good memories from our childhood. Donald sure did make his parents proud with all he accomplished. Please know my deepest condolences go out to all of you. Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend his service, but know you will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Barbara (Unangst) Hoderman
March 6, 2023
I was shocked to see that Don has passed away although I knew he had some health issues. Even though I hadn't seen him in awhile, we grew up together as our families were very close. Don sure did make his parents, family and friends proud. Sending my deepest condolences to his family. I am so sorry but I will not be able to attend his service. Please accept my prayers and deepest sympathy.
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