Edna Snyder

Edna Victoria Snyder, a beloved matriarch and philanthropist, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, at the age of 93, surrounded by her loving family in Manhattan, Kansas. Born to Eugene T. and Hilma Victoria Elizabeth (Johnson) Bonniwell on April 20, 1932, in Hutchinson, Minnesota, Edna lived a life rich with love, service, and creativity, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Edna was a dedicated professional, retiring in 1994 from her position in Civil Service at Ft. Riley, Kansas. She found immense fulfillment in her work but blossomed further as she committed herself to a variety of community endeavors. A devoted member of the First United Methodist Church, Edna poured herself into her faith and the lives of others. She was a Past Matron of the Milita Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star of Kansas, embodying the values of friendship and assistance throughout her service. Her active involvement in organizations such as NARFE, the Pilot Club, and a Reading Club illustrated her passion for connecting with others and contributing to the well-being of her community.

Edna had an unwavering support for the Armed Services, a value instilled by her family's military involvement. She generously contributed to significant memorials, including the WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the National U.S. Army Museum in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Her spirit of service extended beyond these contributions; Edna found joy in volunteering at the Junction City Hospital, touching countless lives with her kindness and compassion.

Beyond her public service, Edna was a prolific craftsperson with a zest for life. She found solace and joy in quilting at her church, alongside indulging in needlework, painting, and sewing. Her love for crafting was matched only by her delight in discovering treasures at yard sales, earning her the affectionate title of a "yard sale junkie." Each stitch and each sale told a story, weaving together a tapestry of memories that her family will surely cherish.

Edna was proudest of her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She married Sgt. William K. Snyder in 1952, and together they welcomed two children, Kennith Duane and Kimberlee Dawn. Though she mourned the loss of her husband William, and her son and daughter-in-law, Kennith and Kathy Snyder, Edna's heart remained open and filled with love for those who remained. Edna was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother Kenneth Bonniwell (KIA in WWII), her sisters Madeline and Nettie, and her brother Marvin Bonniwell—each one of whom held a special place in her heart and memory. She is survived by her loving daughter, Kimberlee Snyder of North Carolina; her four grandsons, Kevin Snyder (Ginny) of Missouri, Brian Clason of Pennsylvania, Lyle Clason of North Carolina, and David Snyder of Kansas; along with three great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and many friends who were fortunate to know her.

Cremation is planned. A private memorial service will be held. Inurnment will be in Fort Riley Post Cemetery, Fort Riley, KS. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to the Cancer Society or First United Methodist Church, Junction City, KS. 

As we gather to remember Edna Victoria Snyder, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—one marked by her devotion to family, her strong sense of service, and her boundless creativity. She will be profoundly missed by all whose lives she touched. Rest in peace, dear Edna. Your legacy of love, generosity, and creativity will live on in the hearts of many.