Ralph Snyder

Ralph Everett Snyder 96, of Des Moines, Iowa passed away on December 6th, 2022 after a long beautiful life.
Ralph was born on February 1st, 1926 to Ralph and Helen (Schnathorst) Snyder in Waterloo, Iowa.
Ralph lived a non-traditional, but very interesting life. As a rebellious free-spirited teen, Ralph spent some time at Eldora School for Boys where he excelled in sports and academics; especially boxing. During World War II Ralph joined the Army, where he continued honing his boxing skills. In 1948 Ralph went on to win a Golden Gloves championship title. At this time, he caught the eye of a coach from Michigan State University. The college offered him an athletic scholarship which Ralph graciously accepted.
After graduation, Ralph's father encouraged him to participate in a machinist program at Caterpillar Tractors.
In 1954 Ralph met the love of his life, Barbara Jean Umphfleet. Ralph and Barbara married shortly after and went on to have four sons, Steven, Mark, Ralph, and Scott.
Ralph had a passion for learning, so he decided to continue his education and attended Drake University to become a teacher.
For 50 years, Ralph taught and coached sports in the Des Moines School district.
Ralph was predeceased by his wife Barbara, son Mark, and grandson Justin. Ralph is survived by his sons Steven, Ralph, and Scott, his grandsons Mason, Clayton, Alec, and James, his special friend Ellen Campbell, and his great-son, Chase.
In lieu of traditional services, the family invites everyone who knew and loved him to join us at the VFW (1309 NE 66th Avenue) on January 28th, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 for a celebration of his life.
Because of Ralph's generous love and support of charitable organizations, the family requests donations be made to worthy causes such as ARL and Disabled American Veterans in his memory.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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