John Snyder

John Snyder, 74, of Palmyra, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Columbia Cottage, Hershey. He was born Thursday, April 12, 1951 in Lewistown to the late John C. and Eleanor (Walker) Snyder formerly of Allentown and Lewistown. John’s closet living relative is his beloved cousin Polly Ann Brown.

A graduate of Millersville State College (B.S., 1973) and the University of Minnesota (M.A., 1976). While at Millersville, his year-long study at Marburg University, Germany, yielded lifelong friendships. He also received scholarships for additional study in Germany, and in 1989 he was named a fellow of Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Partnership and was awarded a third scholarship to study in Bremen, Germany. He was also an Eagle Scout with Troop 4 in Lewistown.

In 2006, after 33 years of teaching German, World Cultures and European History and coaching swimming at Hershey Senior High School, he retired.

John was an avid rail fan, both for actual railroading and all aspects of model trains. As such he was an active member and serviced in leadership positions with the Friends of East Broad Top Railroad and with various model railroad organizations. John’s other interests included singing with several local chorus groups, foreign travel and languages, researching genealogy, motorcycles, serving at the Caring Cupboard in Palmyra, taking care of his cats and support for animal welfare in general.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 17th at 11 AM the Palmyra Church of the Brethren, 45 North Chestnut Street, Palmyra, PA 17078 . Visitation will be held from 10:30 AM until time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Caring Cupboard, Friends of East Broad Top, or Boy Scouts Troop 4 of Lewistown.

Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 25 West Pine Street, Palmyra has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.finkenbinderfamily.com