Cheryl Lynn Snyder, 74, of Russells Point, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of family and friends, Thursday, Jan. 14th, 2020 following a long illness.
Cheryl was born to Mae Bess and Albert Wright in Bellefontaine on June 20th, 1945. Cheryl and her sister Connie grew up in Russells Point, helping their family at the Redwood Inn Restaurant next to Indian Lake. Cheryl, at a young age, helped to direct patrons while parking cars in the limited space behind the Inn.
As Cheryl grew, she developed a love of music. She sang, played clarinet in band, and played piano at various events. Cheryl attended Indian Lake High School, and became part of ‘The Trio’ singing group. The Trio musical group sang on many occasions including as part of the Installation of Officers for the Order of Rainbow for Girls of the Masonic Lodge. After several years of service, Cheryl was installed as the ‘Worthy Advisor’ of the Masonic Order of Rainbow for Girls of the Eastern Star in 1962. Cheryl also served as President of the Logan County National Honor Society and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Cheryl met the love of her life, John, while attending Stephens College in Missouri. As the story goes, John was looking for someone to help with Physical Psychology lab work, and Cheryl had some really good ideas for experiments. This was just the beginning of a beautiful friendship and lifelong love story.
Cheryl loved learning about various countries and cultures. Together, as part of John’s Naval service and multi-year deployment to Naples, Italy, John and Cheryl were able to visit numerous parts of Europe, including Turkey, Greece, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Scandinavia, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Israel, Palestine and Egypt. Her love of travel was so strong that even a broken leg and long leg cast from a ski accident could not keep her from experiencing the beauty of Italy and Europe with John on a motorcycle together.
Cheryl and John both completed their Masters of Education through Boston University overseas program, while in Italy. Cheryl taught students from eight to 15 years of age from a variety of NATO countries at the American International and U.S. Military Dependents Schools in Italy. Upon her return to the states, Cheryl taught 7th and 8th grade science and math courses for several years in addition to implementing a health curriculum and outdoor education program. Prior to going to Italy, Cheryl also taught students in both Rhode Island and Florida.
Cheryl’s love for her family and friends at Indian Lake led her back to her childhood home. Cheryl enjoyed spending time with friends and family on the pontoon boat, as well as skiing, canoeing and enjoying Oak Island. Cheryl helped organize the Centennial Birthday Celebration for the Bickham Covered Bridge in 1977.
Cheryl completed her law degree from the University of Dayton in 1981, and was a member of the legal fraternity Phi Delta Phi. She diligently served numerous clients over many years. Cheryl also mentored aspiring law school students. During her time as an attorney, she also helped to develop the Indian Lake website.
Cheryl participated and served in numerous clubs and organizations over many years including the Elks, the Rotary Club, the Business and Professional Women’s Association and the American and Ohio State Bar Associations. Cheryl served as the Alumnae Media Advisor in the local area for Stephens College. She served as the founding president for the Zonta International Women’s Rights Organization, Logan County chapter. Cheryl was chosen as the Business and Professional Women’s Association Indian Lake woman of the year for 1986.
Cheryl is predeceased by her mother and father, and John’s mother and father, Bona Bell and Joseph Snyder.
She is survived by her beloved husband John; her sister, Connie, her husband Conrad Wilson, and their sons Doug and Greg; her nieces and nephews, Joseph Thomas Snyder, Melinda Middleton, Susan Flieg, Angelena Kissel, Amanda Snyder, Shari Westfall, Dana Singleton, and; cousin, Chelsea Taylor Harter.
Viewing will be conducted at the Shoffstall Funeral Home North Chapel, 115 N. Main St., Lakeview, beginning at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 25th. A Service of Remembrance follows at the same location at 4pm. There will be a separate and private family burial at a later date.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude especially to Brittany Adams, as well as to Meals on Wheels, Universal Home Health and Hospice (especially Donna and Lisa) and volunteers Louise and Alicia for their support, guidance, love and compassion. Special thanks to Melinda, Janet and Elaine for their guidance and support with Cheryl’s care.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to one of the following organizations: The Alzheimer’s Association Miami Valley Chapter, 31 W. Whipp Road., Dayton, Ohio, 45459; or
Universal Home Health and Hospice Care, 701 S. Main St., Bellefontaine, Ohio, 43311.
Arrangements are in the care of Shoffstall Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed at shoffstallfuneralhome.com.