Clarence Dale Snyder, 65, of Burnside, Illinois, passed away Monday, January 8, 2024, as a result of an accident near his home in Burnside.

Dale was born March 5, 1958, in La Harpe, Illinois, the son of Glenn and Dorothy (Bartlett) Snyder.  He attended Nauvoo-Colusa High School, graduating in 1976. Later in his life he participated in the organization of their class reunions, where he enjoyed seeing and visiting with his classmates.

 In 1976, Dale was united in marriage to Molly (Foster), with whom he shares three children: Jaime, Jeremy, and Jennifer.  They later divorced.  Dale had a very special companion of 30 years until her death, Henrietta Johnson.  He was loved and admired by her family.

Dale was a skilled craftsman, a man with pride and integrity, he worked as a sheet metal worker for Local Union 91 for many years until he left the trade to become a proud business owner and operator of Pilot Grove Welding; where he was currently serving as president and co-owner, operating the business until his death with partner, Travis Johnson.  

Dale cared about his neighbors and community, he was a sitting board member of the Pilot Grove and McKay Cemeteries for over 20 years.  He had a huge heart and would help anyone, never asking of anything in return.  Dale was never at rest, constantly working at Pilot Grove Welding, on the farm, cutting wood, or doing for others. Dale’s face was the brightest when he was around children, he loved children and they love him, he was an integral part of many children’s lives throughout the years.

Dale enjoyed farming from a young age; he would stop at every farm implement and auction lot to check out the equipment on his weekend outings, while on the way to the antique stores near and far; his passion was collecting toy tractors and historical memorabilia from local businesses and towns.  He also enjoyed attending the annual Old Threshers where he was sure to find a treasure.

Dale was a devoted father, grandfather, friend, and mentor.  Dale will leave a large gap in our lives; he will be sorely missed and will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents and longtime companion: Henrietta “Retta” Johnson.

Survivors include his three children: Jaime (Danny) Hogan of Niota, IL,  Jeremy Snyder of Burnside, IL, Jennifer (Scott) Roberts, of Carthage, IL, as well as several grandchildren and a great granddaughter; Henrietta’s children, Daniel (Ronda) Johnson of Burnside, IL, Eric (Brandi) Johnson of Carthage, IL, Julie (Brent) Lance of Wentzville, MO, Sherri (Tom) Main of Carthage, IL, as well as several grandchildren and great grandchildren.  

Also surviving are his siblings: Beverly (Steven) Brunk Danville, IA, Barbara (Edward) Burford Warsaw, IL, Betty (Rene) Medina Denmark, IA, Becky (Larry) Flowers West Burlington, IA, Chester (Joyce) Snyder Colusa, IL, Billie (the late David) Mosher Ft. Madison, IA, Bonnie (Gene) Willdrick rural Dallas City, Brenda Womack Ft. Madison, IA, Bea (Alan) Huls Wataga, IL, and Glenn (Terry) Snyder Jr. Buffalo, MN, and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 15th, 2024 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City, IL with Pastor Rick Goettsche officiating. Burial will follow at Pilot Grove Township Cemetery, near Burnside, with a light luncheon being held at the Burnside Gym directly following the burial services. 

The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., Sunday, January 14th at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Dallas City, IL.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established for the Pilot Grove Township Cemetery. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit Dale’s obituary at banksandbeals.com.