Janice Snyder

     Janice “Jeannie” Snyder, 78, of Clear Lake, formerly of Des Moines, died Thursday, July 4, 2013 at Mercy Medical Center - North Iowa in Mason City.  Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2013 at Central Presbyterian Church, 3829 Grand Avenue (at 39th Street), Des Moines, with the

 Rev. Dr. James L. Wallace officiating.  A private family inurnment will be held at a later date at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to HCI Care Services (formerly known as Hospice of Central Iowa), 2910 Westown Parkway, Ste. 200, West Des Moines, IA 50266-1332. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.majorericksonfuneralhome.com.

   Janice Mary Onthank was born June 14, 1935 in Des Moines, the daughter of George W. and Dorothy F. (Smith) Onthank. Jeannie graduated from Roosevelt High School in Des Moines and continued her education at Drake University. She was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority and graduated in 1957 with her B.A. degree in education. She taught  third grade at Wallace Elementary School in Des Moines for a short time. 

     On April 15, 1960, Jeannie married Robert Snyder at Central Presbyterian Church. The couple spent summers at their lake home in Clear Lake, and in 2012, moved there permanently.  Clear Lake had been part of her life since age seven. She was an avid sailor and enjoyed all lake activities with her many dear friends.  She loved playing bridge and also enjoyed golf, music and theatre. Over the years, aside from being a homemaker, Jeannie was heavily involved with Hospice of Central Iowa, her true passion.  Her many roles included volunteer, secretary, enthusiastic fundraiser, foundation board member, and president of the operating board.

     Jeannie is survived by her husband of 53 years, Robert Snyder; her three sons, Steven Snyder and wife, Louise Cragg, of Mason City; Reed Snyder and fiancée, Jennifer Montilino, of Minneapolis, Minn.; and Andrew Snyder and partner, Jeff Staebell, of Des Moines.  She was a loving grandmother to her four grandchildren, William Snyder, Daniel Snyder, Kate Snyder and Gabrielle Snyder. She is also survived by her sister, Dorie Fisher, and husband, David, of West Des Moines, as well as many nieces and nephews.  

     She was preceded in death by her parents. 

    Jeannie was a great friend.  All who knew her were enriched by her caring and generous spirit.  A beautiful light has gone out and its warm glow will remain in the hearts of many forever.

     Arrangements are with Major Erickson Funeral Home & Crematory in Mason City.