Walter E. Snyder

Walter E. Snyder (Walt) passed away Saturday, June 8, 2019 at his home in Cozad at the age of 78. Walt was born November 14, 1940 in Butler, Pennsylvania to Grace Ellen Leras and Floyd Snyder, Sr. He graduated from Butler High School in 1958, joined the United States Air Force, and proudly served his country for the next 20 years.

On December 20, 1964, Walt married Stephanie Menke in the Buffalo Grove Presbyterian church. They continued to live in a variety of places while Walt was in the Air Force; son Scott was born in North Carolina in 1967, and Brett was born in Greece in 1970. Following his retirement from the Air Force in 1980, Walt and Steph moved their family back to Cozad.

He continued his life of service by working for the State of Nebraska as a Veteran's Service Officer for 15 years. He also volunteered with CASA for 11 years, during which time he assisted 11 children in 8 different families. Walt was also active in the Boy Scouts in Plattsmouth with his sons, Kiwanis, the Goldenrod Classic Car Club, and he was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Cozad. In the late 1980's and early 1990's, he and Steph served as foster parents, and over a period of 5-6 years, they fostered a total of 24 kids, some of whom have remained in close contact to this day.

Walt was a very good man who touched the lives of many people. He was awarded a myriad of medals for his service in the Air Force; he was a collector of coins; he was the "cookie man" at church, and one who enjoyed a good conversation with those he loved. He was a role model and example for many, and he will be missed by his family and friends. 

Walt was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Floyd Snyder. His survivors include his beloved wife of 55 years, Stephanie; two sons and daughters-in-law, Scott (Penny) of Omaha, NE and Brett (Loree Yamamura) of Georgetown, TX; special "daughter" Chrystal Blythe; granddaughters Sarah and Breylinn and special "granddaughter " Gabrielle; two special "great-grandsons" Zaylen and Zhiler; brother Floyd Snyder, Jr. of Butler, PA; and many beloved foster children, grandchildren and friends.

Interment will be Friday, June 21, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, Maxwell, NE, with Military Honors . A memorial service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Cozad with Rev. Jill Boyd officiating. Those wishing to sign the memorial book may do so on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home.