Ed Snyder

Edwin Holben Snyder, Jr., lovingly known as "Eddie" or "Uncle Eddie," passed away on September 5, 2020, at Swedish Hospital in Seattle, Washington, at the age of 80. Born on July 30, 1940, in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Eddie lived a life defined by creativity, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to those he loved.

A proud veteran, YN3 Edwin Snyder served in the United States Naval Reserve aboard the USS Newport News (CA-148) from 1960 to 1962. His time in the Navy reflected his lifelong commitment to service and discipline—traits that would shape his many endeavors in the years to come.

Eddie was a true "MacGyver" in every sense of the word. Whether it was a broken appliance or a broken heart, he had the tools—and the wisdom—to fix just about anything. Over the years, he owned several restaurants and ran a lighting company specializing in disco and club installations. In 1985, he even invented an electrical box that could control lights and appliances with the push of a button—a testament to his inventive spirit and entrepreneurial mind.

But perhaps nothing captured Eddie's soul more than music. A gifted pianist with a magnetic stage presence, Eddie once played with The Commodores and even opened for Lionel Richie. His performances brought joy to countless people and left lasting impressions wherever he played. Even after suffering a debilitating stroke in 1996 that impaired his speech and movement, Eddie's determination never wavered. Within six months, he had taught himself to play piano again and resumed performing throughout Western Washington.

Not one to slow down, Eddie took up bartending at age 67—working by day behind the bar and by night behind the piano keys for over a decade. He poured his heart into everything he did, always working hard and playing harder.

Eddie's life was also deeply rooted in family and tradition. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Trish Adams of Enumclaw, WA; grandsons Tyler Oneal of Lacey, WA and Owen Adams of Auburn, WA; granddaughter Emmalee Adams of Enumclaw, WA; great-granddaughter Aubrey Adams; great-grandson Asher Adams; brother William R. Snyder of Lacey, WA; sisters Patricia Snyder of Seattle, WA; Julie Thompson of New Hampshire; and Elizabeth Raglione of Portland, OR.

He also leaves behind cousins Philip Wagner and Kate Szegda; nieces Rebecca Snyder and Victoria Byington of Lacey, WA; Lisa Snyder of Olympia, WA; Stephanie Hampton of Olympia, WA; nephews William R. Snyder Jr., Jacob Johnston, Jesse Snyder, Brady Snyder, and Ben Thompson; grand-nieces Alysse Normoyle (AZ), Caitlyn Snyder (Lacey), Jordyn Sagawinit (Olympia), and Lillian Hampton (Olympia); and grand-nephew Noah Sagawinit HM2 USN.

Eddie was predeceased by his father Edwin H. Snyder Sr., mother Rebecca Wagner, son Gabrielle Michael Snyder, brother John Snyder, sister Constance Snyder, stepmothers Evelyn Snyder and Shelia Snyder, and stepfather Dr. Phillip Newman.

To those who knew him best, Uncle Eddie was more than just family—he was a mentor and guiding force. He raised those around him with love and laughter, teaching them how to work hard while finding joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved people deeply and genuinely—always ready with advice delivered through a warm smile or over a home-cooked meal (with leftovers packed for days). His signature black jacket was worn proudly for over three decades—a symbol of his enduring style and spirit.

Eddie had an unmatched ability to bring people together. He loved entertaining guests with music or stories that made everyone feel like they belonged. His circle of lifelong friends cherished his humor, loyalty, and zest for life. If not for COVID-19 restrictions at the time of his passing—which limited hospital visits—we would have celebrated his life with the kind of party he deserved: full of laughter, brandy, stingers on the rocks, and music that moved souls.

Though complications from a stroke ultimately took him from us too soon during an isolating time in history, Eddie's legacy continues through every person he inspired—with his music echoing in our hearts and his lessons etched into our lives.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may we continue to live with the same passion, generosity, and resilience that defined Edwin Holben "Uncle Eddie" Snyder Jr.'s extraordinary life.

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