Imogene Mae Nusbaum-Snyder

Imogene graduated in 1965 from East Side High School in Fort Wayne, IN. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Child Development and Psychology from Ball State in Muncie, IN, graduating Suma Cum Laude in 1976—an achievement that reflected both her disciplined mind and her lifelong devotion to understanding and caring for others.

Imogene’s professional life was marked by steady leadership and a deep commitment to the well-being of children and families. She served as CEO of Crossroad Children’s Home in Fort Wayne for 14 years, retiring in 2004. She later served as Interim CEO at Erin’s House in Fort Wayne, and as CEO at Cambridge House in Muncie, IN for 10 plus years. She also gave her time and guidance as a member of the Board of Directors of the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission. Through By Your Side Consulting, Imogene continued to offer faith-based leadership, bringing clarity, purpose, and compassion to the work she believed in.

Those who knew Imogene knew a woman whose faith was central and quietly steadfast. She was a member of Good Shepherd UMC in Fort Wayne, IN, and her care for others extended into a Greeting Card Ministry that carried encouragement beyond the walls of home or church.

Imogene found joy in the arts and in the simple, sustaining rhythms of daily life—playing piano, singing, and reading avidly, including audio books. She loved her family and friends, and she loved to travel with her best friend to different places across the country, including every national state park except a very few. She also followed the Cubs and IU Hoosiers with loyal enthusiasm. Her lighthouse collection—chosen for what it represented—stood as a meaningful symbol of light through the darkness.

Imogene is survived by her daughter, Inge Snyder of Indianapolis, IN; and her best friend and housemate, Lauralee Aven of Fort Wayne, IN.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Homer and Ruth Nusbaum of Fort Wayne, and several cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, 404 E. Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46802; or to Charis House, 5920 Decatur Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46816.

In accordance with Imogene's final wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.