Claude L. Snider, Sr.

Claude L. Snider, Sr., passed away on September 30, 2025, with his family at his side. He was born August 11, 1937, to William L Snider Sr and Hannah (Lay) Snider, in Louisville, Kentucky. He married Caryl Amundsen June 17, 1961, in Chicago, IL where they had met. They moved to Hartford shortly after, where they raised their family and Claude has called it home ever since.

You could always tell which car was Claude’s as he always had at least one American flag proudly displayed from it, and he would be taking pictures of whatever event was happening in town, whether it be a parade, music in Eli Park, or a fire in one of the buildings from it. Claude loved to travel and was always up for a road trip.

He was a boy-scout leader for many years, where he loved to teach kids camping skills and how to tie different knots. He enjoyed playing Bingo, as well as engaging in any game that gave him a chance to win prizes, particularly his knack for claw machine games. These hobbies brought him much excitement and created moments of fun to share with family and friends. He was also a movie buff owning well over 1,000 dvds and 100s of VHS tapes.

He leaves behind two daughters, Christine (Rick) Anthony, of Lawrence and Catherine (Greg) Marquart. His first born grandchild, Ashley (Billy) Conklin, & her children Little" Bill, Aubriana, Dominik, and Cooper Conklin all of Mattawan who will fondly remember “great grandpa Winky” as an intense video game competitor, first wife Caryl (Amundsen) Snider; grandchildren, Erin, Melinda and Nick; great granddaughter, Alexis Bodine; two sisters, Karen (Jayme) Snider-Clarke and Tammy Burchell, and many nieces and nephews.

Claude was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Chuck and Lee; his granddaughter, Samantha Anthony, brothers, Bill and Tommy, as well as his second wife, Millie (Friend) Snider.

In this time of reflection, the family continues to embrace the cherished memories of Claude L. Snider, Sr., a man whose love for his hometown, family, and friends will forever remain in their hearts.

A celebration of Claude’s life will be held October 25th, 2025 at the United Methodist Church in Hartford, MI. Visitation will start at 11am with a service to celebrate his life starting at 11:30. There will be a luncheon immediately following the service. Family is asking everyone to wear something patriotic in memory of Claude.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to “the back pack fund” at the United Methodist Church in Hartford or to the Berrien County Area on Aging.

Cremation has taken place & a private burial will be at a later date.