John Kenneth Snyder, age 75 of Napoleon passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2020. John was born in Shelbyville, Indiana on August 16, 1944; the son of the late Jack and Peggy (Hilt) Snyder. He spent his childhood growing up in the Napoleon community.
John was a graduate of Jac-Cen-Del High School class of 1962. Upon graduation, John entered the work force only to see life take a major change in 1966. That was the year John was drafted into the United States Army. He proudly served his country for the next 20 years, retiring as a CWO3.
John earned numerous medals and badges while in the service. While stationed in Germany, he met Heidi Fickel. Life changed for the better on that day and he would spend the next 50 plus years married to her. They were united in marriage on Friday June 13, 1969, and celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary on the day of his death.
Shortly after marriage, John was sent to Vietnam and Heidi moved to Napoleon, where she had their first child, Teresa. While on leave in Hawaii, Heidi and Teresa flew to join him so that John could meet his daughter for the first time. They reunited in Germany. During this time, their son, John Jr., was born. John would complete 3 tours of duty in Germany during his time in the military. They returned to the Napoleon community in 1984.
John stayed active upon their return; spending time driving for Baylor Trucking as well as Fraley and Schilling. He was active in the Napoleon Fire Department and served on the Napoleon Town Board. He was also a member of the Napoleon United Methodist Church and Solid Rock Bible Church.
John is survived by his wife Heidi, daughter Teresa (Mike) Kress, and son John Jr. (Tina) Snyder. He is also survived by grandchildren Bailey, Andrew, Seth, Avery, Aidan Michael, Dakota, Davilyn, and Tyler, as well as great grandchildren Cameron, Maxine and Charley. Brothers Gary, Troy (Melissa), and Brett (Juan), sister Connie Snyder, and sister-in-law Franziska (Dieter) Hochberger also survive. He is also survived by his loving faithful companion Henri.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 from 4-7 pm. at Neal’s Funeral Home in Osgood. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday June 17, 2020 at 10:00 am., also at Neal’s Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the Ripley County Humane Society in care of the funeral home. Online condolences can be given at nealsfuneralhome.net.