Robert O. Snyder

Published in The Columbus Dispatch on 8/12/2008

Robert O. Snyder, passed away August 9, 2008, at the age of 81. He was born April 22, 1927, in Columbus, Oh. He was the last surviving member of his family.

He was preceded in death by his mother Hazel Ilene Wagner Snyder, father Fred Snyder, sisters Helen Anita Snyder Forster (William) and Marjorie Ann Snyder, and brother Pierce Fred Snyder (Maxine). Bob was also predeceased by his wife of 38 years Marilyn Joan Pargeon Snyder and his daughter Karen Kay Snyder.

After Marilyn's death, Marsha Ann Stein Carter became his lady friend and traveling companion for 14 years until she passed away.

Bob is survived by daughter, Linda Lee Witchey (Jack); and son, Robert Ray Snyder (Kelli). He is also survived by his 3 grandchildren, Tom Witchey (Halli), Tara Witchey and Chris Snyder.

In his youth, he worked as a clubhouse boy at Red Bird Stadium (now Cooper Stadium). Bob then graduated from Central High School in 1945 and was immediately drafted into the Army of the United States during World War II, serving with the 78th Lightning Division in Europe.

After the war, he received minor league baseball offers from the New York Yankees and the St. Louis Browns organizations to name a few. Bob received his gold card as a life member of the Association of Professional Ballplayers of America.

After baseball, he became a 3rd generation bricklayer as owner/operator of Snyder Masonry for almost 30 years. During this time, he was very active in the Aladdin Shrine Temple, becoming Potentate in 1980. He was also proud of having been named an honorary member of the Ohio State Highway Patrol in 1971.

Through all of this, Bob traveled the world many times having never met a stranger. He will be sadly missed by those that knew him. According to Bob's wishes, there will be no calling hours.

A private ceremony for the family will be held at Sunset Cemetery.

Arrangements completed at JERRY SPEARS FUNERAL HOME, 2693 West Broad St. Sign the online guestbook at www.dispatch.com/obituaries.