On February 17, 2025, the Bloomington, Illinois, community lost a cherished figure with the passing of John “The Dean” Snyder. He died quietly at home, leaving behind a legacy that spanned decades and impacted countless lives. John’s passing has left a deep void among his family, friends, and all who knew him, but his memory lives on in the many stories he told and the lessons he imparted throughout his life.
Born on December 7, 1931, in Odell, Illinois, John was the son of Gene and Mary Vivian Snyder. His early life was marked by tragedy, as his parents were killed when a train struck their automobile when he was just 14 years old. This loss was devastating, but it set in motion a chain of events that shaped John’s character for the rest of his life. Following this heartbreak, John went to live with his aunt and uncle, John and Bernadine Snyder, in Cornell, Illinois.
Unfortunately, John’s family was no stranger to tragedy. Later in life, two of his brothers, Gene and Mike, were also taken in car accidents, further deepening the pain John had already experienced. However, through these hardships, John developed a resilience and sense of perseverance that would define him throughout his life. His personal story of overcoming adversity became one of the cornerstones of his character and an example to others.
John attended Cornell High School, where he excelled as an athlete. He earned five varsity letters during his senior year, an impressive feat that showcased his talent and determination. He was admired by peers and coaches alike for his dedication and competitive spirit, both on and off the field. His love for sports, especially for his beloved Chicago White Sox and Notre Dame Fighting Irish, was well-known. These teams were an integral part of his life, and he proudly supported them through the years, demonstrating his loyalty and enthusiasm.
In addition to his love of sports, John was known for his passion for visiting the racetrack and spending time at the OTB. He could often be found making his way to places where he could engage in friendly betting, and he always had a good story to tell about his experiences. Visitors to the Snyder family home would leave with more than just memories—they would often receive a lottery scratch-off ticket, a small but thoughtful gesture that reflected John’s playful nature and generosity.
One of the greatest joys of John’s life was his family. He met the love of his life, Sandy Rhoman, while attending Illinois State Normal University (ISNU). The two were married on July 30, 1960, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Metamora, Illinois, and their union would remain strong for over six decades. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared experiences. John especially loved family gatherings, and Christmas celebrations were particularly meaningful to him. These times allowed him to reflect on the importance of family and the bonds that connect people across generations.
In addition to his love for family, John and Sandy shared a passion for travel. When their children were young, the family traveled extensively, visiting over 40 states and many Canadian provinces. These trips not only allowed the Snyder family to explore new places but also provided them with lasting memories. One of John’s dreams was to visit Ireland, and he and Sandy eventually made that trip together. This adventure served as a testament to John’s desire to experience life to its fullest, despite the challenges he had faced.
John’s philosophy was simple but powerful: if you worked hard and never gave up, you could reach your goals. He was a man of strong convictions who believed that perseverance and determination were the keys to success. “Don’t tell me you can’t do it!” was one of his favorite sayings, and it encapsulated his outlook on life. His belief in the power of hard work and dedication resonated with everyone who knew him, and it was a quality that he passed on to those around him.
Throughout his life, John was a constant source of strength and inspiration to his family and friends. Whether it was his sense of humor, his generosity, or his unwavering support, John made a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His death has left a hole in the hearts of many, but his legacy will live on through the stories, memories, and lessons he shared.
As we reflect on John Snyder’s life, it’s clear that his impact was immeasurable. He was not just an athlete, a fan, or a traveler—he was a husband, father, grandfather, and friend who touched the lives of everyone he met. His legacy is one of resilience, kindness, and the importance of family. The lessons he taught through his actions—of perseverance, loyalty, and a love for life—will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
John Snyder’s passing is a reminder that life is fragile and precious. We are all touched by the people we meet along the way, and John’s life serves as a testament to the power of human connection and the lasting impact we can have on each other. As his family and friends mourn his loss, they take comfort in the knowledge that his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him best.
In the days ahead, John’s family will gather to celebrate his life, share stories, and reflect on the many ways in which he made their lives better. Though John may no longer be with us physically, his spirit will remain a guiding force, reminding us all to work hard, never give up, and always cherish the people around us.
As the community bids farewell to John “The Dean” Snyder, we remember the impact he had on our lives. He was a man of integrity, passion, and perseverance, and he will be missed more than words can express. May we all strive to live our lives with the same determination, kindness, and generosity that John exemplified every day. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, and for that, we are all truly grateful.
