Edward Snyder

Edward "Ed" Snyder, age 83, of Raleigh, NC, passed away on May 24, 2024. Ed was a beloved husband of 57 years to Donna and a devoted father to Chris and Kathleen.

Ed grew up in Chicago as the middle child of Joe and Mary Snyder. He attended the University of Illinois, where he graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering. One of his favorite memories was playing in the Illini marching band during their Rose Bowl appearance. During this time, he also met the love of his life, Donna. After graduating, he started his lifelong career working for Western Electric, which eventually became AT&T.

During his career, Ed was never idle. As a private pilot, he enjoyed flying when he could. This passion carried over to being a lifelong member of the Civil Air Patrol. His other hobbies included intramural sports, working on the house, and gardening. Many will remember him as the person who built a kit car of a 1929 Mercedes Benz seen around town.

After taking early retirement from AT&T, where he was a purchasing manager, Ed needed to stay active. He became a general contractor, licensed electrician, plumber, and beekeeper. When Ed finally settled down, you could find him riding his tractor, woodworking, and creating blue birdhouses.

After a long day, Ed would often relax in the front yard in his hand built Adirondack chair beside Donna, beverage in hand, the dog next to him, waiting to tell his latest joke to neighbors walking over to visit. Ed loved reading science fiction novels and watching action movies when not outside.

There was always a dog in his life; most recently, that was Otto, and he enjoyed spending time with him. Ed would make bread and pastries to share during the holidays using his family recipes. People will also remember Ed's love of polka music, which he enjoyed sharing with others.

Those who knew him will remember Ed for his kind heart, sense of humor, and passion for life. His family and friends will deeply miss him.

The family will receive friends for a celebration of Ed's life at a later date.