Thomas H. Snyder

Thomas H. Snyder, age 92, of Dixon, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, September 25, 2024, at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center in Rockford, IL. Known lovingly as Tom to his friends and family, he was a man large in stature but quiet and kind in demeanor. His profound presence was a comforting and steady force for everyone who knew him. Born on February 18, 1932, in Clinton, IA, Tom was the son of Harold and Genevieve (Cleary) Snyder. Raised in Fulton, IL, by his beloved mother and several aunts, their strong maternal guidance instilled in him the importance of family, the comfort of community, and the value of consistency. After graduating from Fulton High School in 1950, Tom enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country honorably stateside during the Korean War. Following his service, he enrolled at Western Illinois University and soon began his career in the Fulton area. Tom's wry, clever, and kind sense of humor endeared him to many, including the love of his life, Greta Gibson. They met by chance, doing favors for a mutual friend. That brief encounter blossomed into dates and, ultimately, a lifelong partnership. Tom and Greta were married on November 6, 1965, in Dixon, IL, sharing a loving and enduring marriage that nearly reached its Diamond Jubilee. Tom’s life was a testament to the importance of being present and committed in everything he did—work, faith, and family. He devoted the majority of his career to Swift and Company in Rochelle, IL, later relocating to the St. Charles, IL, facility. Each day, he rose at 4 a.m. to embark on a lengthy commute, putting in long hours to provide for his family. His dedication was also evident in his unwavering faith, as he showed up for church every week, often lending a hand as an usher. Even after exhausting 12-hour workdays, Tom never failed to support his children at track meets, soccer matches, and basketball games, always pacing the sidelines with a proud smile. His consistent presence, despite his own fatigue, taught us the invaluable lesson of supporting and showing up for the people you care about. He reinforced that success and love are built on the foundation of being there, day in and day out. In addition to his family, Tom loved reading novels. His favorite genres included westerns and military thrillers from the likes of Louis L’Amour and Tom Clancy. He always recommended reading a good book at least twice, saying “you’ll always notice something new.” His love for reading was more than a hobby. It was a testament to his ever-curious mind and his belief in the value of lifelong learning. Tom shared his wisdom and perspectives, whether it was about basketball fundamentals or life lessons learned from physical labor. His presence in his family’s lives was constant, a dependable force that showed the importance of consistency, love, and dedication. Tom's legacy is one of unwavering support and commitment. For those who had the privilege to know him, he was a guiding light of steadfastness and love. Through his life, he showed us the unparalleled importance of simply showing up. Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Patricia Tolson, and his brother Eugene Snyder. He is survived by his loving wife Greta, his children Thomas (Zdravka) Snyder of Naperville, Michael Snyder of Loves Park, Matthew (Christine) Snyder of Ann Arbor, MI, and Sarah (Shannon) Hinrichs of Rockford. Tom and Greta were blessed with eleven grandchildren: Tanner Snyder, Bailey Snyder, Jeremy Snyder, Kelsey Snyder, Natalie Simova, Grayson Snyder, Owen Snyder, Hunter Hinrichs, Hannah Hinrichs, Hallie Hinrichs, and Hazel Hinrichs. Visitation will begin on Friday, October 4, 2024, at 11:00 AM followed by the funeral service at 12:00 PM at the Jones Funeral Home in Dixon. Burial with military honors will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Dixon. Arrangements are being handled by the Jones Funeral Home. Condolences can be left at www.thejonesfh.com In Tom’s memory, may we all strive to show up in the lives of those we love, with the same steadfastness and dedication that he did.

Thomas H. Snyder

February 18, 1932 - September 25, 2024