Larry Snyder

Larry The Burrito Guy Snyder, 69, of Safford, entered into rest on March 11, 2013. He was born on September 21, 1943 to Frank and Laura Snyder in Little Falls, New York. He grew up on a farm with his brothers and sisters, Frank, Peggy, Mort and Holly. He served in the Army, non-combat, and was stationed in Germany where he was married and widowed. After discharge from the Army he worked as a musician; his passion throughout his life. In 1972 he met and married Wanda and became dad to Jason, Melissa and finally Stacy. He provided a good life to his family working at Keiser Permanente cement plant in Cupertino, California. In 1989 he suffered a heart attack, beginning his long battle for health. In 1998 he was a heart transplant recipient; a miracle that allowed him to spent fourteen and a half more years with his family. Larry had an amazing love for all sports, but nothing surpassed his passion for making music. His fondest memories were the times spent playing guitar and performing with his brother Mort. Larry is survived by his adored girlfriend Della Gauna of Safford; two sisters, Peggy Boyden and Holly Ackerman of Valencia, CA; son, Jason (Cheryl) Page of Oregon; daughter Melissa (Shane) Whitley of Oregon; daughter, Stacy (Eddie) Laatsch of Wisconsin; as well as eight grandchildren, Hannah, Hailey, Lea, Jimmy, Grace and Allyson. He is also survived by his affectionate Gauna family of Safford. Larry will always be remembered for his infectious smile, zest for life and his determination to live it. We wish to express our thanks to the doctors and nurses who worked constantly to provide care for Larry; and a special thank you to the Tucson V.A. Hospital and Cardiology Department. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 14, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at the Safford American Legion.