Gordon Alva Snyder

Gordon Alva Snyder, Capt, USN Retired, of Pensacola, Florida died March 13, 2012.

Gordon was born in Scotia, New York to the late Edward and Rheta Clayton Snyder.

He was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Margaret (Maggie) and his two brothers, Clayton and Kenneth Snyder.

Gordon was a US Naval Academy graduate, Class of 1943. He went on to become a pilot and was later Commanding Officer of the USS Lexington. After his retirement, he and Maggie lived several years in Cuernavaca, Mexico before building their home in Star Lake. They traveled extensively and were known for their parties, especially Maggie’s Kentucky Derby Party. Gordon was an officer, a gentleman, and an overall good man. Even in his 90’s, he still tried to stand when a lady entered or left the room. He was known for his homemade mustard and mayonnaise at Christmas. He was a loving husband who cared for his wife, Maggie up until her death. He was a proud grandfather who even in his 80’s got into the flight simulator at the National Naval Aviation Museum with his grandson. He loved golf and enjoyed playing it for many years. He also loved giving his own personal tour of the Naval Museum and taking guests to see the Blue Angel shows. He was loved and respected by many and will truly be missed.

Gordon is survived by his step-son and daughter-in-law, Shannon and Vicki McCrary and grandson, Scotty. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Jerry Snyder of Orlando; a niece, Barbara and (husband) Dr. Doug Hurd of North Carolina; two nephews, Kenny and (wife) Carol Snyder and Randy and (wife) Mary Snyder; and several great nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at Westpointe Retirement Community and the friends who have been so supportive to the family over the past seventeen months. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Naval Aviation Museum or Covenant Hospice in his honor.

A memorial service honoring Gordon and Margaret Snyder is scheduled for Friday, April 13th at 10:30 am at Bayview Fisher-Pou Chapel - 3351 Scenic Highway, Pensacola, FL - with Interment at 2:00 pm at Barrancas National Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home in Tallahassee, Florida.