Donald "Shorty" Martin Snyder, 86, of Traverse City passed away peacefully on Monday, January 7, 2019 at Medilodge of Traverse City. Don was born on September 12, 1932 in Hannah, Michigan to the late Martin and Ada (Frye) Snyder. He married the love of his life Joann Irish on August 9, 1958 in Traverse City. Don honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He was stationed aboard the USS Orion, a submarine tender in the Atlantic Fleet. He had been employed by many car dealerships in the Traverse City area as well as Cherry Growers. He was a graduate of the North American School of Conservation as well as ITI Trade School. Don was active in the Boy Scouts and was a Scout Master to his sons. He enjoyed fishing, leatherwork and oil paint by the numbers. Above all spending time with his family was his greatest joy.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Joann, two sons and daughter; Kevin Snyder, Gregory Snyder and Teresa (George) Durak. Also surviving are three grandchildren; Gabriel (Hailey) Snyder-Laus, Katherine Durak and Amber Leary, sisters-in-law; Lula Snyder, Judy Snyder, Judy (Don) Murphy, Mary Plamondon, a brother-in-law, Milton Irish as well as many nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by two brothers; Richard Snyder and Eugene Snyder, two infant sisters Doris Snyder and Joanna Snyder.

Don's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staffs and volunteers of both Medilodge of Traverse City and Hospice of Michigan for their loving care and support.

A Committal Service and Military Honor will be announced at a later date by Don's family.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to the Agape Health Care Schools - Traverse City Campus, 10781 E Cherry Bend Rd, Traverse City, MI 49684 or the Alzheimer's Association Northwest Michigan Chapter, 921 W. 11th St., Suite 1W, Traverse City, Michigan 49684.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Don's family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkoff.com .

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.