Jerald Gene Snyder, 79, died Monday, September 18, 2023, peacefully in his sleep at Provena St. Joseph Center in Freeport, IL. Jerry was born February 24, 1944 on a farm near German Valley, IL to Earl Snyder and Anna (Boekholg) Snyder. He married Beverly (Bev) Wagner in 1961, later divorcing. They remained friends and had two children, David Snyder and Kathy (Weegens) Snyder together.

Jerry attended school in Leaf River, IL. He was a truck driver by trade, driving over the road for 49 years and 11 months before retiring. Some companies he drove for included UPS, Newell, Schneider Tank Lines, Tandem Transport and Regal-Beloit. He was a long time member of the Eagles Club, Moose Club, Elks Clubs, the Masons, Stephenson County Antique Engine Club, as well as a lifetime member of the NRA.

He was a General Motors enthusiast, but was well known to be a Corvette lover, owning four different red Corvettes throughout his years. Jerry collected many diecast semis, cars, trucks, and tractors. He was also a big fan of Dale Ernhardt and Elvis Presley. After retiring, Jerry could be found at any number of local restaurants and coffee shops. He also enjoyed attending any kind of automotive show around the area.

Jerry is survived by his brother Don Snyder of Freeport, IL, son David (Sheri) Snyder of Shannon, IL, daughter Kathy (Matt) Weegens of Louisville, KY, grandsons Josh (Stephanie) Snyder of Illinois, Matthew (Gretchen) Weegens of Ohio, Michael (Amanda) Weegens of Kentucky, Ryan Weegens of Kentucky, Daniel (Paige) Weegens of Illinois, and granddaughter Jessica (Jake) Ernst of Illinois. Great grandchildren include Deacon Snyder, Justus, Amelia and Levi Weegens, Chance and Brooklyn Weegens, Hunter Snyder, and Amelia, William and Griffin Ernst, many nieces and nephews, longtime friends Tom Pieper and Dave Bruce, and 'honorary' grandson Andy Johnson. He is preceded in death by his parents Earl and Anna Snyder, and brother Merle Snyder.

Funeral services will be held at 11am on Saturday, September 30, 2023, with a visitation from 9am until the time of the service, at Schwarz Park Blvd. Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd, Freeport, IL. Burial will be held following the services at Adeline Cemetery, 9106 North Cedar Street, Adeline, IL. A memorial has been established in his name.