Richard Lyle "Dick" Snyder

May 28, 1939 -

Aug 13, 2023

Dick Snyder passed away peacefully on Aug. 13, 2023, surrounded by family. He was born on May 28, 1939, in Madison, Wis., the only child of Hobart and Evelyn Snyder. He graduated from Madison West High School in 1957 and then from University of Wisconsin - Madison with a degree in agronomy. In college he was an enthusiastic member of the Hoofers Outdoor Club and grew to love canoeing, rock climbing, backpacking and exploring the wilderness. After graduation he moved to Boulder, Colo., to continue his outdoor pursuits. Through the local hiking club he made many lifelong friends including his future wife, Elisabeth "Liska" Friedrichs. During this time, he was a member of the Rocky Mountain Rescue Group and found employment with the U.S. Geological Survey in Denver, Colo.

Dick and Liska were married in 1965, and in 1967, Dick took a "temporary" transfer to Alaska, where they spent the rest of their lives. They made their home in Airport Heights where they spent 54 wonderful years with their delightful neighbors. Dick was happily fulfilled with his 33 years at the USGS. As a water-quality specialist, he traveled extensively throughout remote parts of Alaska. He retired in 1995. Dick loved Alaska: its cool climate, diverse wilderness landscapes and general lack of formality.

Dick and Liska raised two sons, David and Gary, and in 1974, they built their beloved cabin, "Pooshki Park", north of Palmer. Over the years they enjoyed folk dancing, many trips to Hawaii, especially Kauai, hiking in the deserts of the Southwest and visiting family and friends in the Lower 48. Dick enjoyed an unforgettable trip to the Galapagos Islands with David and Gary in 2014. Dick also loved to cook and bake. He was especially appreciated for his tasty bread and everyone will miss his sourdough pancakes. After retirement he volunteered for many years with the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage as a "Green Grunt" helping at ski races. He also spent many joyful hours with his granddaughters, all of whom grew up in the neighborhood.

Dick was strong but gentle, and had a great sense of humor. He loved children and was warm-hearted towards everyone. While he was frugal with himself, he was generous towards others. He enjoyed a six-decade marriage with Liska and was devoted to her well-being, particularly in their later years. His wisdom, humor and patient demeanor will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Liska; son, David and wife Patty; son, Gary and wife Heather; and granddaughters, Tazlina, Marley and Iona.

A celebration of life will take place on Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023, 1:30 p.m., at the Anchorage Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 2824 E 18th Avenue in Anchorage, Alaska. A live stream link will be available. In honor of Dick, this is an informal event: please leave the suits and ties at home. The celebration will continue afterwards at a nearby home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage or the Great Land Trust.