Gary W. Snyder

Leetonia, OH-July 26, 2011-Gary W. Snyder, 67, of Cherry Valley Road, died Tuesday evening at the Hospice House, Poland.

Gary was born July 26, 1944 in Clarksburg, West Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles W. and Edna B. Varner Snyder, as well as his brother, Charles A. Snyder and his wife Michele (Shelley) Snyder.

Gary joined the U. S. Army in 1961 and was a paratrooper with the 173rd Airborne, the 502nd Airborne, and the 101st Airborne. He served in the Vietnam War, where he was injured badly after a jump during heavy winds. He then worked for over 35 years at Eljer Industries in Salem, OH. Gary was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed hunting and fishing until his war injury confined him to a wheelchair.

He was a life member of DAV, the Leetonia Sportsman's Club, the Joe William's Post #131 American Legion and the AMVETS. He regularly contributed to many veterans organizations through charitable donations.

He is lovingly missed by his children; Melissa Snyder Thompson, Timothy (Marilyn) Snyder, Nathan (Heather) Sensabaugh and Aaron Sensabaugh and grandchildren, Emma and Julianna Thompson; Caleb and Lauren Snyder and Aurora and Gage Sensabaugh.

Gary was a jovial and well liked, kind and generous and leaves behind many friends.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made to the Joe Williams Post #131 American Legion or any other veteran organization.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, August 5, 2011 at the Woods-Rettig Funeral Home, Leetonia with Pastor Kari Lankford officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to the services at the funeral home. Military honors will be accorded by the Salem Honor Guard.

Burial will be in Pleasant Valley Cemetery in New York.