Paul Matthew Snyder began his first harvest in the skies on August 23, 2026.

Paul was born on April 16, 1974, in Madison, WI, to Theodore and Mary Snyder. Raised in DeForest, he graduated from DeForest High School in 1992. Paul often shared how blessed he felt to grow up working on the family farm, where he learned the values of hard work, a strong work ethic, and the deep importance of family.

He carried those farm-bred lessons into every corner of his life. One of Paul’s greatest joys was simply talking to people—whether chatting with customers at the strawberry patch, spending time with dear friends and family, or volunteering with Special Olympics. His sharp sense of humor and quick wit were always present.

Above all, Paul’s greatest gift was his kindness. He brought a radiant, positive attitude to every day, often reminding those around him to “consider it all joy,” “don’t sweat the small stuff,” “save your worries,” and “tomorrow is never guaranteed, live every day as your last.” He had a rare ability to see the best in others and help them see it in themselves. Paul made everybody feel like somebody; whether you knew him for a few minutes or a lifetime, you felt his love. Even in his passing, Paul offered a final gift of love through cornea donation.

Paul lived boldly, unburdened by the fear of failure. He loved learning new things, taking chances, and seeing every obstacle as an opportunity waiting to be seized. He never let circumstances hold him back.

Preceding Paul in his new harvest are his parents, Theodore and Mary; his maternal and paternal grandparents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law; and numerous beloved cats, though Popcorn will always hold the title of his favorite.

Paul’s light will continue to shine down on the many people who meant the world to him, most especially his beloved wife, Heather; his daughter, Hailey Snyder (Jonathan Troville); his sons, Tyler and Brett Snyder; his brother, Peter Snyder (Alla) and their children, Vitale and Zach; his sister, Dawn Collins (Clint) and their children Jacob (Natia), Matthew, Thea, and Luke; his sister, Debbie O'Hara (Jeff) and her children Katie Shaffer (Lowell), Sarah Athanis (Nick), and Andrew Gorzek; his sister-in-law, Lisa Mellberg (Peter) and her daughters Ava Sment (Josiah) and Amelia Barkow (Evan); as well as many dear friends and extended relatives.

Paul leaves us with his own comforting words:

“When it is my time to go, don’t mourn me. Celebrate me! I had a great life! I had a wonderful wife, amazing kids, and a loving family. I was truly blessed.”

Paul’s farming days are far from over—only the location has changed. He passed on smiling, knowing he lived an extraordinary life filled with deep love and boundless joy.

Please join us for a celebration of Paul’s promotion on October 25th from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the Upickstrawberry Farm (5396 Hahn Road, DeForest, WI). A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm.

Paul’s family would like to thank the UW neuro ICU doctors and nurses for their incredible care and compassion. Also, thank you to the friends, family, and community for your love and support.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Windsor/DeForest Chapel
6924 Lake Rd
608-846-4250

Paul Snyder

April 16, 1974 - August 23, 2026

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