Harold E. Snider

Harold (Harry) E. Snider, 92, was born September 29, 1929 in Kansas City, MO. Harry passed away on January 29, 2022 in Overland Park, KS. Harry grew up in Independence, MO, the first of two children born to Leslie and Geneva (Cramer) Snider. Upon graduating from Northeast High School, Harry attended the University of Missouri, Columbia earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. He would later also earn a Certificate of Business Administration as well as a Master’s in Business Administration from the same university. Upon graduating with his Bachelor’s degree, he enlisted in the Air Force ultimately receiving an honorable discharge upon completion of his service as a Lieutenant at White Sands Proving Ground in New Mexico during the Korean War. Upon leaving the military, Harry returned to Kansas City, MO and took a job at Westinghouse as a Civil Engineer. At the age of 25, Harry bought property at the Lake of the Ozarks where he would spend every free moment over the next 3 years building by his own hands the still cherished family cabin. It was also during this time at Westinghouse where he would meet his forever love of 63 years, Madelon Rose (Ingino) Snider. Rose was not one to succumb immediately to Harry’s wit and charm. But, after his relentless pursuit, Rose agreed to one date and she soon realized Harry was the one. Harry converted to the Catholic church and he and Rose married on April 19, 1958 at St. Louis Church in Kansas City, MO. Together they would soon begin a family and Harry a professional career under the stalwart support of Rose. Harry would take a job with the Water Department for the City of Kansas City from which he would retire as the Director after a 35-year career. While at the City, Harry would also become a force with the American Water Works Association, the largest professional organization dedicated to improving drinking water internationally. Harry served on many committees, held numerous chairmanship positions, received the prestigious Fuller Award and ultimately was elected President. During his 4-year term as President, Harry also received international recognition as the expert in water meter standards in the United States. As a result of these positions and recognitions, Harry and Rose would travel to all 50 states, US territories, throughout the Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Harry was a devout Catholic, donating his time and expertise to the Church over many years. He and Rose were founding members of Saint Regis Parish. He lent his talents for many years as the President of the Parish Council, President of Pastoral Council for the Diocese of Kansas-St. Joseph, President of Kansas City chapter of the Serra Club, and President of the School Board for Archbishop O’Hara High School.

After retiring from the City, Harry and Rose became snowbirds spending winters in Englewood, Florida and summers at the lake house.

Harry is preceded in death by his infant son, James Snider, infant daughter, Mary Snider, parents, Leslie and Geneva (Cramer) Snider, and brother, Robert Snider.

He is survived by his wife, Madelon Rose (Ingino) Snider, son, John M. (Kelly) Snider, Oregon, WI, daughter, Anne M. (Kelly) Snider, Leawood, KS, and 6 grandchildren, Madison, Katherine Carly, Ellison, Mitchell, William, and Luke.

Visitation will be from 5 – 7 PM Thursday, February 3, at McGilley State Line Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 AM Friday, February 4, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Lenexa, KS. Burial in Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Serra Club (www.serraus.org) or Unbound (www.unbound.org).