Donald Ray "Don" "Duke" Snyder September 25, 1942 – July 13, 2026

Sedro Woolley- Donald Ray "Don," affectionately known as "Duke," Snyder passed away peacefully at his home on July 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Don was born on September 25, 1942, in Burlington, Washington, and was raised in Rockport, where he attended school in both Rockport and Concrete.

Don proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Much of his service was aboard the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown , serving in the waters of Southeast Asia. Following his active-duty service, he enlisted in the 194th Training Division at Fort Lawton in Seattle before relocating to Alaska.

Alaska became an important chapter in Don's life. He first worked in a logging camp in Thorne Bay before joining the trucking industry during construction of the Alaska Pipeline. From 1974 through the  1980s, he hauled freight throughout Alaska, including the Prudhoe Bay region. Don later became an owner-operator, purchasing a brand-new Peterbilt that he proudly owned and drove for many years.

After returning to Washington, Don owned and operated Duke Snyder's Used Cars alongside his son. Whatever the job, he approached it with determination, integrity, and pride. He was respected for his strong work ethic and his willingness to lend a helping hand whenever someone needed it.

Duke never let a good deal pass him by or an auction end without raising his bidding card. He loved the thrill of the hunt, always believing another treasure was waiting to be found. Those who knew him will always smile when they remember his love of auctions, classic vehicles, and finding a bargain.

More than anything, Don loved his family. He treasured time spent with those he loved, enjoyed sharing stories from his years in Alaska and life on the road, and found great joy in watching his family grow. He was especially excited to welcome his very first great-grandchild, Kaden Duke Kaaland , who is expected to arrive in September. His quiet strength, quick wit, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family will be remembered always.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of many years, Janice Snyder ; his children, Dawnette Vance, John Snyder (Stephanie), and Kristie Kaaland ; his cherished grandchildren, Danielle Honor (Andrew), Chad Kaaland (MeKayla), Josh Snyder, Parker Garcia, and Carli Garcia ; his brother, Ken Snyder (Judith) ; his sister, Reba Sines ; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Letha Snyder , and other loved ones who welcomed him home.

Don will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his faithful service to his country, his lifelong dedication to hard work, and the countless miles he traveled building a life for those he loved. His legacy will live on in the stories shared around family tables, in the lessons he passed down, and in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Lemley Chapel , followed by a reception at the Sedro-Woolley American Legion .

"A life measured not by the miles traveled, but by the lives touched along the way."

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