Mary Snyder

With a life that spanned nearly a century, Mary Snyder was a woman of many interests and experiences that were only made better when shared with her family and friends. A more devoted mother would be hard to find, and there was nothing Mary loved more than witnessing her family tree blossom to include numerous branches of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were her greatest source of pride and joy. Although she will be deeply missed, Mary will never be forgotten.

The 1920s brought us some of the most vibrant days we have witnessed as a nation. Innovation was fueling countless advancements that transformed the way we lived our everyday lives. Prosperity was celebrated all across our great land, and with things like radios, washing machines, and more affordable cars there was great hope in what was to come. It was just as this exciting decade was dawning that a young couple from Oberlin, Ohio, was pleased to announce the birth of their baby girl on August 10, 1920. Mary Belle was one of three girls born to her parents, Alex and Eva Lister, and she was raised in the family home in Orangeville, Michigan, for the majority of her formative years alongside her sisters, Nadiene and Patsy.

In many ways Mary experienced an upbringing that was a reflection of the times. Her parents were hard working farmers who instilled within Mary a strong work ethic. She was a student at local schools who went on to graduate from high school.

New and exciting changes were in store for Mary when she met the young man of her dreams. His name was Arnold Snyder, and she was his secretary. A dating relationship ensued, and over time the couple found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to establish a life together Mary and Arnold were united in marriage. Together they welcomed two children into their hearts and home, Marcella and Denise.

Over the years Mary was a woman of many interests. She adored her two Pomeranians, and she also treasured the companionship of two additional dogs, a Springer Spaniel and Golden Retriever mix. Throughout Mary’s life animals were an integral part of family life. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she always went all out in decorating and in preparing to host holiday gatherings. Mary’s skills in the kitchen were unmatched, and she loved baking a variety of goodies for her family to enjoy. She kept active for as long as she was able as she could often be found out in her gardens tending to her vegetables or her flowers. For years Mary and her family loved roller skating on a weekly basis. She did some traveling, but her favorite vacation was an unforgettable trip to Hawaii. As her family and friends can attest, Mary had her own creative flair that she used in several ways. She enjoyed crafting, which most recently included making cards to send to her family and friends. Crocheting, sewing, and making floral arrangements were also things she loved. Mary had a special place in her heart for all animals and especially enjoyed feeding the birds. When relaxing with some television she liked getting inspiration from Food Network and HGTV, and she also liked watching Animal Planet. Biographies were usually Mary’s chosen material. A devoted Detroit Tigers fan, she watched all their games on television almost never missing a game.

With unending love for those around her, Mary Snyder was a blessing to countless others. She was never one to focus on building wealth or accumulating possessions, rather, she was concerned with how she could give to her family and friends. Mary was kindhearted and genuine to all of her family and friends. She will be dearly missed while her memory remains forever near and dear to the hearts and lives of those she leaves behind.

Mary Belle Snyder, of Henderson, NV, died on June 19, 2014. Mary’s family includes her daughters, Marcella (Mark) Calhoun and Denise (Jerry) Peters; grandchildren, Mike Williams, Nick (Theresa) Williams, Bill Porter, Jason Calhoun, Lulana (Matthew) Heron; great-grandchildren, Alana Williams and Declan Heron; sister, Patsy Rop as well as many other relatives. Mary was preceded in death in by her husband, Arnold, in 2003 and her sister, Nadiene. Visit with her family on Tuesday, July 1st from 11:00-12:00 noon at Life Story Funeral Homes, Portage; 5975 Lovers Lane (344-5600) where a service will follow immediately at 12:00 noon. Please visit Mary’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign her guestbook. Memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA.