Donald A. Snyder

Donald "Don" Anthony Snyder passed away peacefully in his home at age 78 on Friday, November 5, 2021. Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife Shirley Snyder, mother of Randy and Steve Bedard, and his parents Joseph Snyder and Magdalene Kukovich. He is survived by his only sibling, William Joseph Snyder; 5 adoring nieces and nephews, Brenda Snyder, David Snyder, Susan (Snyder) Dunford, Daniel Snyder, Sandra (Snyder) Heberlein; and 20 grand nieces and nephews.

Don was born a first generation immigrant on July 23,1943, and was proud of his Slovenian heritage. He shared many happy memories of growing up in the small Slovenian neighborhood of the Globeville immigrant community in Denver, Colorado in the 40s and 50s.  He lived within a two-block radius of grandparents and aunts, whom he helped care for in his youth.  Don completed all of his education at parochial schools, attending elementary school at Holy Rosary and graduating from Annunciation High.  A proud Vietnam vet, Don served our country in the military and was honorably discharged after two years of service in the army.  Upon completion of his military service, Don took the postal exam for the United States Postal Service, which led to a lifelong career as a mail carrier. This position not only provided secure employment for decades, but it was on his mail route that he met his beloved wife, Shirley.

Don was an active and valued member of his Catholic parish throughout his life. He touched the lives of many individuals with his pleasant and warm manner while serving as an usher at Holy Rosary and St. Mary Magdalene churches for decades. Don loved to attend the church bazaars held annually around the Denver area, and his family came to count on him to keep them supplied with the delicious salami and cheese he routinely won and generously shared.

Though quiet, Don was known for his quick wit. He was greatly admired and adored by his five nieces and nephews (and eventually their children, as well) for his good natured teasing and his witty “zingers.”  He was also loved by his nieces and nephews for his generous gifts to them each Christmas, notwithstanding the ever growing number of them!

Don was a well-loved son, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor, and will be deeply missed. In Lieu of flowers please send donations to the American Diabetes Association.