Lt. Col. Omar G. Snyder USAF

Lt. Col. Omar Gillum Snyder USAF Retired, passed peacefully September 18, 2011, in New Braunfels, Texas. He was born to Elsie Lolita Gillum Snyder and James Frederick Snyder on January 18, 1929, delivered by his grandfather and uncle, at the Hurst-Snyder Hospital in Hazard, Kentucky. He spent his early years in Hazard working at his father's ice house and Budweiser distributorship, delivering ice via pickup truck to rural Perry County. He also spent extended time in Jackson, Kentucky with a special grandmother, Maude Ewen Gillum, where he often attended school.

After graduating from Hazard High School in 1947 and a brief stint at The University of Louisville, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served honorably for 26 years. During this time he fulfilled numerous overseas commands, with two tours in Vietnam, and received multiple awards and commendations, including the Airman's Medal. Omar became an expert aircraft mechanic and squadron leader in the field of C-5s, C-130s and helicopters. He was also squadron leader for a team of rescue helicopters during tours in Vietnam. Subsequent to his Air Force career, he worked for Bell Helicopter in Fort Worth, Texas.

He was a gun enthusiast who over the years maintained his Expert Marksman status and was a memeber of the NRA. His other passions included fishing, restoring and collecting antique coffee mills and cast iron cookware.

Omar is preceded in death by his only sibling, Charles Dana Snyder. He is survived by his children, Frederick Raymond Snyder and wife Meg of Patzcuaro, Michoacan, Mexico; Karen Snyder Nolen and husband Hunter of New Braunfels, Texas; grandchildren, Robert Branham Snyder, Miranda Elizabeth Snyder, Marshall Hunter Nolen and Marina Katherine Nolen; as well as a nephew and two nieces.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 26, 2011 from 8:00 a. m. to 12:00 p. m. at Zoeller Funeral Home. A Graveside Service will be held on Monday, September 26, 2011 at 1:45 p. m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with Interment to follow. Mr. Snyder will receive full military honors at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.