Ray L. Snyder, 80, a lifetime LaPaz resident and known to many in the area as ?Snyder the Decorator?, has died. Ray, who resided at 13010 W. 1st. Road, died following an illness at the home of his daughter Pam, in Bristol, Ind.
Born on October 30, 1920 in Lapaz, Ind., he was the son of Solomon F. and Cacelia M. Boone Snyder. He attended Lapaz schools and served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII in the Philippines where he received the Bronze Star.
At the early age of sixteen, Ray joined his father in the painting and decorating business which he continued until his retirement in 1998. Ray was known for quality work and having a friendly disposition.
On February 11, 1950, in South Bend, he and Marcia L. Hostetler, were married. Marcia died suddenly, one year ago, May 10, 2000.
Ray took pride in helping others by fixing and repairing things, sometimes a challenge, but eager to try. He also enjoyed gardening, cooking and reading.
A member of the Nappanee First Church of God, where he was involved in the W.H.O. ?We Help Others?, adult Bible class. And had also served as a Sunday School teacher. He was a former member of the LaPaz First Community Church of God.
He is survived by one son, Dean R. and Theresa Snyder of Defiance, Ohio, two daughters, Pam J. and Terry Garber of Bristol and Deb K. Snyder of Goshen. Eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren survive along with one sister and two brothers. They are, Betty and Rev. Hilton Bryant of Hammond, Roy and Lorena Snyder of Plymouth and Paul and Eyvonne Snyder of Bremen. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Ray was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Jean Fay, a twin to son Dean, his parents, spouse and two brothers, Leo and Don Snyder.
Friends may visit with the family today Tuesday, June 19, from 4 ? 8 p.m. in the Johnson ? Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St. Plymouth.
Funeral services for Ray will be conducted by the Rev. Emeritus Robert Fields, of the Nappanee First Church of God and family friend Bro. Dave VanCuren. The funeral will be held in the LaPaz First Community Church of God, 601 S. Michigan St. LaPaz at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 20, 2001, where friends may call one hour prior services.
Burial will be in Fair Cemetery, northwest of LaPaz. Military graveside services will be accorded Ray by the Lapaz American Legion Post 385.
Memorial gifts in Ray?s memory may be made to the Nappanee First Church of God, LaPaz First Community Church of God or the Goshen Hospital Community Hospice Program.
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