David Wayne Snyder, 69, of Henderson, Texas, former of Bronson, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 2, 2026 at Pine Lodge Assisted Living Facility. Fittingly, the place where Dave spent his final days was also a place where he had once faithfully volunteered before becoming one of its beloved residents. The compassion he shared with others came full circle, and he was cared for with the same kindness he had so often given.
Dave was born July 9, 1957 to David A. Snyder and Lois Snyder. He was the second oldest of six children and grew up surrounded by family, developing the warm, outgoing personality that would become his trademark throughout his life.
July 9, 1976 Dave married Paula Vettel, and together they welcomed two children, David and Michelle. On August 13, 1988, he married Kathy Endsley, the love of his life. Through their marriage, he joyfully welcomed Jeremiah and Sabrina into his family, loving and raising them as his own.
Dave and Kathy built a life together in Bronson, Michigan, where they spent many happy years until Kathy’s passing in 2015. Dave remained in Michigan until moving to Henderson, Texas in 2023.
Dave dedicated much of his life to the food service industry, most recently serving at Wendy’s in Coldwater, Michigan. Throughout the community, he became affectionately known as the “Wendy’s Man.” His upbeat personality, remarkable efficiency, and genuine kindness made him a favorite among customers and coworkers alike.
He took great pride in his work and was honored with numerous awards recognizing his dedication and service to the community. To Dave, no customer was ever just another order. He believed every person deserved to be greeted with a smile, a kind word, and genuine care.
In 2023, Dave became a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Henderson, Texas, where he found a welcoming church family and continued living a life centered on faith and caring for others.
Over the past several years, Dave faced both throat cancer and prostate cancer with strength, courage, and determination. Even through difficult days, he continued to greet others with a smile and a positive spirit that inspired everyone around him.
Nothing meant more to Dave than his family. He is survived by his children, David (Elizabeth) Snyder, Michelle (Kirke) Best, Jeremiah (Ashley) Bartrum, and Sabrina (Randy) Freshour; his grandchildren, Tayton, Korbin, Carson, Caleb, Breanna, Michael, Mackinley, Mariah, and Lucas; his bonus grandson, John Squiers; his great-granddaughter, Elena Squiers; his siblings, Terri Hill, Deetta English, Sandy Howe, Gerald Snyder, and Mary Bradshaw; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy Snyder; his mother, Lois Snyder; and his father, David A. Snyder.
Dave will be remembered for the joy he brought into every room, the kindness he showed every person he met, and the example he set through a life of hard work, faith, and unconditional love for his family and friends. Whether serving a customer with a smile, volunteering to help someone in need, or spending time with those he loved, Dave made people feel important.
His legacy is not measured only by the years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched through simple acts of kindness.
His family finds comfort in knowing that Dave is now reunited with Kathy, the love of his life, and rests in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
He never met a stranger, and few people walked away from Dave without leaving with a smile.
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