Danny Ray Snider

Danny Ray Snider passed away on September 20, 2026, at his home in Paola, Kansas, with his family by his side. He was born on February 7, 1943, in Nowata, Oklahoma.

As a child, Danny’s family moved to California during World War II while his father was in the service, and they lived in a tent on the beach of the Pacific Ocean. He spent his childhood years in Carlsbad and Oceanside, California, memories that remained part of the story of his life.

Danny answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army in 1960. He served as an armor crewman and was honorably discharged on April 27, 1964, with the rank of Sergeant, E-5. That same season of life also marked the beginning of his marriage, as he was married on March 20, 1964, to Winona Toncray.

He built a life defined by hard work, service, and commitment to his community. Danny joined Local Plumber Union #8 and became a member of the Local Plumbers Union. In 1975, he started Snider’s Plumbing in Paola, owning and operating the business for 25 years. In 1978, he added RadioShack to the family business. He also served as a reserve deputy for the Miami County Sheriff’s Office. Later, he worked for AB May for 15 years before retiring in 2008.

Danny was a man of many interests and gifts. He attended First Baptist Church in Paola and was a member of American Legion Post 156 in Paola. He enjoyed sports and brought energy and enthusiasm to everything he did. He was an avid bowler, enjoyed golfing, played in softball leagues, went water skiing, played racquetball, and loved camping and boating. He coached his children in sports, sharing not only his time but his encouragement and steady presence. He also enjoyed leather work and stained-glass work, pursuits that reflected both skill and creativity.

Among the accomplishments he was especially proud of, Danny was named Bowler of the Year in 1962 in Oceanside, California, and was offered a spot on the Pro Bowling Tour. He was also the founder of the Miami County Weekenders Motorcycle Club and helped build and establish the Julie Silvers Girls Softball fields in Paola. These achievements reflected his drive, his love of people, and his lasting investment in the community around him.

Those who knew Danny will remember him as a very good husband, selfless, and deeply devoted to the people he loved. He was a protector and provider, a man who loved his family wholeheartedly. He was also a teaser and a joker, bringing laughter and warmth to those around him.

Danny is survived by his wife, Winona Snider; his son, Scott Snider; and his daughters, Tracy (Donnie) Rankin, and Robin Skeens. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Ashley (John) Boydston, Tanner (Erica) Rankin, Cheyenne (Mason) Bell, Dalton (Samantha) Rankin, MacKenzie (Myles) Robison, and Hunter Skeens, who were an important and treasured part of his family circle. His love for his family was evident throughout his life, and his presence will continue to be felt in the lives of those he leaves behind.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy D. and June Snider, and by his brothers, Roy L. Snider and Ralph Snider.

Visitation will be held at 9:30 am, Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Paola, 207 E Wea Street, Paola, Kansas 66071. Memorial service will follow at 10:30 am. Private burial will be held at the Fontana Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 pm, Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at a family members home, 19555 K-68 Hwy, Paola, Kansas, 66071, that all are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to the Miami County Cancer Foundation, 2 W Peoria Street, Paola, Kansas 66071.

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