Michael A. `Mike` Snyder
Michael A. `Mike` Snyder , Age 76
Michael A. Snyder, age 76 of Baraboo, passed away on Tuesday, December 26, 2023 surrounded by his children at home. He was born on May 26, 1947 in Iowa City, Iowa to Allen and Bernice (Hardman) Snyder. He graduated from Williamsburg High School and earned his BS in Dairy Science from Iowa State University in 1972. On June 10, 1972, he married the love of his life, Barbara (Frotscher) Snyder in Farnhamville, Iowa.
Mike’s professional journey began with the National Holstein Association and he was initially based in Marshfield, WI, and later in Brattleboro, VT. In 1980 he relocated to Baraboo from New Hampshire to establish the Wisconsin Holstein Association Office and served as the general manager from 1980 to 1985. From 1985 to 1998, he owned and operated Snyder Sales, a cattle auction business. Mike contributed his expertise to various agricultural firms before retiring from the National Holstein Association in 2010. He remained a respected and active professional in the dairy industry and found great joy in working with youth and judging cattle shows at local and state fairs. He annually volunteered in the show ring at the World Dairy Expo in Madison.
Believing in the power of community involvement, Mike was a member of the First United Methodist Church, contributing to various committees, including the finance committee. He was a member of the Baraboo Elks Club and Jaycees and Jaycettes. He served as the president of the Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce and dedicated thirteen years as president of the Baraboo Country Club where he played a pivotal role in the creation of the current clubhouse.
Mike’s zest for life was unparalleled, and he formed meaningful connections with everyone he encountered. An exceptional grandfather, he took immense pride in the accomplishments of his family. Mike is survived by his children Jeffrey (Melanie) Snyder of Wynnewood, PA and Laura (Mike) Henrickson of Eagan, MN; his four grandchildren Zach, Julia, Max, and Madeline; his brother Dick (Pat Smith) of Orlando, FL; his sister-in-law Sally (Dean) Peterson of Madrid, IA; a niece and nephew Ben (Danny Cope) Frotscher of Phoenix, AZ and Nicole (Kyle) Kirchoff of Ankeny, IA; other relatives and many friends including Janell M. Miller who was a dear companion for many years.
He was preceded in death by his wife Barb; his parents Allen and Bernice Snyder, his father and mother-in-law George and Betty Frotscher; and his brother-in-law Kent Frotscher.
A celebration of a life well lived will be held in the spring. Mike’s positive spirit and larger than life personality touched many even during challenging times. The family will announce preferred organizations for memorial gifts shortly. Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Condolences
Linda Schenck December 31, 2023
Acquaintance Baraboo
So very sorry for your loss… he was a wonderful man!
Sally Peterson December 31, 2023
Sister in law Madrid , Iowa
My thoughts and prayers are with Jeff, Melanie, Laura, Mike and their children. He was a fun loving man and I have many fond memories of family times. Hugs to all of you.
Denise Marie Deaton-Tolzman January 01, 2024
Family friend Dodgeville , Wisconsin
Jeff and Laura, I have nothing but wonderful memories of Mike. He love his family, his faith and all of his farming family. I have more than 1 experience with Mike working with him on Junior activities, sales, shows and more. This past October, when i saw i saw him at WDE, he said Denise - its one day at a time. A saying both my parents lived by. Hugs to both of you and your families. Denise Deaton-Tolzman
Greg Lang December 31, 2023
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
So sorry for the loss. What a great man. He was friendly and caring and always willing to lend a hand. He will be missed….
Dean FRISLE-VUE DAIRY January 01, 2024
Friend Prairie Farm
So sorry for your loss great man
Lawrence Thorvald Olson January 01, 2024
Friend Evansville , Wisconsin
So sorry for your loss.he was always a happy person and a terrific leader. He led with honesty and a caring personality.
Becky Brenson January 01, 2024
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
My deepest sympathies to all of you. I have so many memories in my life that include Mike and family, going back as far as elementary school. Thank you for bringing joy and laughter to our lives. Until we meet again....
Jill & Ed Mielke January 01, 2024
Friend Fenwood , Wisconsin
So sorry for your loss. It was a pleasure to have gotten to know him. ðŸ™ðŸ»ðŸ™ðŸ»ðŸ™ðŸ»
Dave Bitler January 01, 2024
Friend Fleetwood , Pennsylvania
My sincere sympathy. The summer of 1965 Mike lived with us at Lisiter Farms Newtown Square Pa. helping with the Guernsey herd and show string. My dad was asstant herdsman and Mom ran the boarding house. It was always a highlight for me, to meet him at Holstein convention or at expo.
Martha (Clark) LaMoria January 01, 2024
Friend & Co-worker Townshend , Vermont
I will never forget Mike's jovial laugh. I was employed at the Brattleboro office of Holstein when Mike was a program director and I worked for Zane Akins. He always had a hearty laugh but could also be serious when it was called for. I am so thankful I got to meet Mike and Barb when they were here in New England. My condolences to Jeff, Laura and family.
Dean Opsahl January 02, 2024
Friend Goodhue , Minnesota
I've been in the dairy industry for over fifty years. Mike was one of the best I ever had the privilege to work with. He always made you feel like you were his most important client. More important than that, he was just a great human being.
Ilona Spencer January 02, 2024
Friend of Laura Burnsville , Minnesota
So sorry for your loss. Prayers and thoughts going your way.
Ronald DICKEN January 03, 2024
Childhood friend Visalia , California
Mike was a childhood friend, attend college and participate in my wedding with Barb, 53 years ago. His family and mine were close and attend the same church in Coralville. Along with his father beginning our coach and teacher. May Mike rest in peace .
Kevin and Peggy Coffeen January 03, 2024
Friend De Pere , Wisconsin
Mike was such a kind and familiar face in the Holstein showring. I first met him as a Holstein Princess 20 years ago, and his jovial, calm presence could be felt by everyone around him. Years later, I won't forget how Mike always greeted me and our family with a smile as we entered the ring. He had a way of putting others at ease and making them feel important. His faith in the Lord was expressed by the way he treated people. Mike will be missed. Sincerely, Peggy and Kevin Coffeen