Joseph Clifton "Clif" Snyder

Joseph Clifton “Clif” Snyder, passed away Thursday, September 17, 2026, in Wheaton, Illinois. He was 96.

Clif was born in Waterloo, Iowa to Earl and Helen (nee McAlvin) Snyder. He grew up in Fulton, Illinois along the Mississippi River. His love of cars and driving began early. During WW II when the young men were away, teenage Clif drove a delivery truck for his father’s coal business. In his 20s, his convertible, aka “the cool blue jewel,” turned heads including that of the lovely young lady named Lillian Gordon that he eventually married.

Clif loved music of many kinds. He played trombone as a youth and sang in a barbershop quartet in his 20s. Big bands were a favorite along with musicals and classical. He consistently and enthusiastically attended nearly every concert or game for his children and then grandchildren.

Clif was a ready helper in all aspects of his life – work, family, church and community. He worked as an agribusiness insurance adjuster for many years, driving many miles on country roads to assess storm damage and help people file their claim. After retirement he enjoyed several years volunteering for Habitat for Humanity.

In 1969, Clif and his wife Lillian joined the First Presbyterian Church community in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. He remained active in the church for over 50 years, including his service as an elder and work on the building and grounds committee. His faith was consistently practiced rather than preached. Clif had the rare quality of leaving any gathering or environment better for his having been present.

Clif is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Lillian (nee Gordon) Snyder; his parents; and his siblings Joan VanAsselt, Gregg Snyder, and Warren Snyder.

He is survived by his children Carolyn (Craig Duncan) Snyder, Nancy (Donald) Rice, and Gordon (Meg) Snyder; his grandchildren Robin (Brad) Powszok, Adam (fiancé Mackenzie) Rice, Hayden Snyder, and Everett Snyder; his special friend Dell Hanrahan, and many nieces and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at the Wyndemere complex in Wheaton, Illinois.  

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 11:00am at First Presbyterian Church of Glen Ellyn, 550 N. Main Street, Glen Ellyn, Illinois 60137.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity at https://www.habitat.org

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