James Richard Snyder's Obituary
James Richard Snyder, age 63, of West Olive passed away peacefully on November 24, 2008, at a care facility in Grand Haven. He was born October 15, 1945, in Grand Haven to the late J. Howard and Hallie E. (Ellis) Snyder.
Jim was a lifelong resident of the Tri-Cities area. He graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1964 and continued his education at Ferris State University and received his master’s degree from Western Michigan University. Jim retired after 34 years as an instructor at Grand Rapids Community College. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Grand Haven and an active member of the Royal Corvettes of Western Michigan Club, where he served for many years as president and in other board positions. Jim enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, auto racing, attending car shows and cruising in his Corvettes. He will be remembered most for his infectious sense of humor and love of life.
He is survived by his wife Jane (Mellema) Snyder; daughters, Tricia (Douglas) Shaw of West Olive and Tonya Snyder of Atlanta; stepson, Chris Rice of West Olive; grandchildren, Collin James and Courtney Kay Shaw and Haliyah Snyder; sister, Phyllis (Dennis) Simonis and lifelong friend, Bill Bonny.
The funeral service for Jim will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at VanZantwick Bartels Kammeraad Funeral Home in Grand Haven (please use new east entrance) with Rev. Daniel Anderson officiating. Friends may meet the family from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Monday, December 1, at the funeral home in Grand Haven. Interment will be in Lakeshore Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.vbkfuneralhome.com.
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