DONALD SNYDER

Donald Charles Snyder, 86, of Weirton, a devoted family man, respected community leader, and dedicated employee of Weirton Steel, passed away on Wednesday morning, July 19, 2023, at Allegheny General Hospital, after suffering a stroke. His wife and daughters were at his side.

Born on April 14, 1937, in Weirton, WV, the middle son of Darrell W. and Ruth Johnson Snyder, Don led a life marked by integrity, hard work, and compassion. He graduated from Weir High School in 1955, after which he joined the United States Marine Corps, serving from 1955 to 1959. Upon his return home, he began his career at Weirton Steel as a laborer, a company to which he would dedicate 45 years of his life. Through his unwavering dedication and exceptional work ethic, Don rose through the ranks and retired as the Manager of Primary Steel Making.

During his tenure at Weirton Steel, Don’s contributions were widely recognized and celebrated. In both 1976 and 1978, he was honored as the Weirton Steel Man of the Year, a testament to his exceptional leadership and commitment to excellence. In 1996, Don was named the West Virginia Northern Community College Citizen of the Year, highlighting his positive impact on the community beyond his professional endeavors. Furthermore, in 2002, the Hancock County Sheltered Workshop recognized his outstanding humanitarian efforts by awarding him the Humanitarian of the Year title.

Don’s commitment to community service extended far beyond his professional life. He served as the President of Anderson’s Children’s Home and was the last living Weirton Steel man to have served on the board of directors of the Anderson Children’s Home. Additionally, he held the position of co-chairman for the Weirton United Way Annual Campaign, where he passionately worked to improve the lives of those in need.

In his personal life, Don found joy wintering in Myrtle Beach with his wife Ethel. The couple shared 60 wonderful years of marriage, and their love grew stronger with each passing day. Together, they raised two daughters, Debbie and Terri, who were the pride and joy of their lives. Don was a doting grandfather to Mackenzie, Zack, Alex and Isabel.

Don loved dancing with Ethel at the Moose Lodge, where he was a member of Lodge 688. He also enjoyed golfing with his buddies at Pleasant Valley Country Club, where he recorded 6 holes in one. A true sports enthusiast, Don was a devoted Cleveland Browns fan, faithfully supporting his team through the highs and lows. He also held a special place in his heart for the WVU Mountaineers, holding season tickets for 40 years. In the realm of baseball, Don followed the Atlanta Braves.

Don will be remembered as a man of integrity, hard work, and no nonsense. His compassionate heart towards the children at the Anderson’s Home left an indelible mark on the community he called home. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Ethel Balint Snyder; his daughters, Debbie Snyder-Jones (Larry) and Terri Snyder-Min (John); his brothers, Darrell “Cinders” Snyder (Barbara) and David “Duke” Snyder (Barbara); his grandchildren, Mackenzie and Zack Lambert, and Alex and Isabel Min; and all those who had the honor of knowing him.

Visitation will be Friday from 3 PM until 7 PM at the Greco Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street Weirton, WV, where funeral services will be held Saturday at 12 Noon.

Entombment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Weir High School Golf Team, Weir High School Wrestling Team, Hancock Sheltered Workshop, Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh or to a charity of your choice.