WADELL “DELL” SNYDER
Our beloved father, Wadell D. (Dell) Snyder, passed on May 16, 2023 at the age of 93. Wadell was born in Steubenville, Ohio in September, 1929 to the late Ulysses Snyder and late Floretta Johnson Snyder. He is proceeded in death by his wife of 58 years, Myrtle Smith Snyder, and 5 sisters, Margaret Snyder Colliers, Delores Snyder Patterson, Elizabeth (Lizzy) Snyder, Brenda J. Snyder and Vera Snyder Washington. He is also proceeded in death by niece Kendall Snyder King. Wadell is survived by children Rinee Merritt (Todd), Wadell Snyder Jr., and Sher Begay as well as sister Shirley Snyder, granddaughters Dr. Tamana (Bunny) Begay, Tileah (Tia) Begay and Tashina Begay Martinez (Andres) and many nieces and nephews.
While serving in the Korean War, Wadell was awarded the Korean Service Medal; Combat Infantry Badge; United Nations Service Medal and National Defense Service Medal. After his military service he attended Kent State where he met Myrtle and completed both his undergraduate and Masters degree. He played football at Kent State and was a life long football fan who enjoyed watching any and almost every televised game. Many years later, the Snyder family moved to the Pacific Northwest where Wadell became the Deputy Director of the Tongue Point Job Corp in Astoria, Oregon. He earned his Doctorate in Administrative Education from the University of Oregon in 1973.
Dr. Wadell Snyder was a lifelong educator, education administrator and served as a mentor and counselor to many. He had an impressive history of achievements notwithstanding several positions as teacher, professor and principal of school in 4 states as well as a
Phi Delta Kappa member
Director of Staff Personnel and Benefits, Central Washington University
Community Education Services, Lane Council of Governments
Vice President and member of Alaska Public Employees Association
Juneau World Affairs Council, Board of Directors
And many other professional and personal achievements.
Once retired, Wadell began exploring his creative side by sewing quilts and developing skills as a glass artist.
Wadell was very much loved and will be missed by all whose heart he touched. The family will be holding a private family celebration of life next year. Those wishing to send a message may contact: Howler merritt@icloud.com.