Bill Snyder, Ann's father's cousin, passed away recently and the family held a memorial service for him in San Jose, CA on July 23. Ann and her brother, John, wanted to attend, so on July 22, we four drove down together in our truck. We left our trailer at Cliff and Linda's house in Oregon. Though it was sad at Bill's passing, we four had a good time being together and then being able to spend time with their cousins, some of which we have seen recently and some it has been many years since getting together. When we got to San Jose, some of us met together for a meal at a local restaurant in Los Gatos, CA.
Clockwise, starting at 9:00 are, Karen and then John Huff, Steve Snyder (Bill's nephew) and then his son, Tony, Jason (Bill's grandson), Moke (Sue's husband), Sue (Bill's daughter), Ann and Wayne.
Ann, Wayne, Karen (John's wife) and John (Ann's brother).
The next day, the Memorial Service was presided over by Sue (Bill's only surviving child) Here she tearfully eulogizes her dad. Bill served during WWII as a bomber pilot of a B-17, flying 25 successful missions over Europe, was awarded the Purple Heart and several medals for combat valor. He, after WWII, worked for the CIA on several top secret missions and tasks of which several are now finally being declassified so that it is becoming clear the service he rendered to his nation. Besides all that, he was just a plain ol' fun guy that loved candy and loved his family. Ann and John fondly remember growing up spending many summer vacations with Bill and his family. They look on Sue as a close cousin. It was good to be able to spend time with her and Bill's family.
It was a small gathering of family. Bill's has outlasted most of his colleagues and compatriots, they having passed on before him.
Never the less, the Air Force remembered, honored him and on his passing and saluted him at his memorial service with a special flag ceremony....
...a rifle salute....
...and then presented Bill's daughter, on behalf of the president, the flag of his nation he served most of his life.
Then Bill's two grand children placed Bill's ashes in their vault.
Afterwards, the family gathered for a photo and then went to dinner together. It was a nice time together, honoring a great man and then spending time enjoying a meal together.
It was a good time. We are blessed to have family that enjoys each others company and stands together during times of sorrow. Good family!!
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