Richard L. Snider of Russells Point, a man comfortable in his own skin, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 24, 2025, at the age of 97 years.
Richard was born on Oct. 25, 1928, in Dayton, Ohio, to Charles and Mabel Snider.
He married Nadine Fye in Dayton, Ohio, and she preceded him in death. He is survived by their son, R. Steven Snider of Russells Point; along with a grandson, Jason Douglas Snider of Redding, Calif., and a granddaughter, Emily Wilson of Dayton, Ohio. He enjoyed a second marriage to Arlene Joyce, and she also preceded him in death.
He moved to the Indian Lake area when he was 42 years old and fit right into the Indian Lake scene, even with the snake hunters. He was beloved as a local from the very start because of his love for Indian Lake and his gregarious personality. We are not sure what caused his demise at 97, but it certainly was not from cynicism. His last words were “Best Ever.” He loved life and the people in it. His sense of humor was deeper than the ocean and infectious.
Richard, a handsome and kind gentleman in all ways, was in the United States Marine Corps after graduating high school. He served from 1947 to 1951 and was honorably discharged as a proud E5 Sergeant. He was given $19.80 of travel pay upon discharge to get back to Dayton. He rode his 1948 Harley Panhead as an energetic youth back home and, with age, never lost his passion for motorcycles, weightlifting, good diet, and freedom.
He always wore a smile and knew how to make others find a reason to smile back. To his last day, it was “the best day ever.”
Richard worked in finance and retired in 1971 as Vice President of Gem City Savings in Dayton. In 1971, he moved to Indian Lake and sold real estate until 2012, having a successful Century 21 office for years.
He was truly an optimist. There are many, many stories that reflect his joy of life.
An informal memorial service will be held at Paradise Island in Russells Point, on May 9, 2026, at which time a tree to honor his spirit will be planted and a bench set for public use. This walking path was one of Richard’s favorite places to walk and rest in peace while enjoying the feeling of the sun on his face. The time is set for 11:30 a.m. Bring a story. Share a laugh.
