Kristopher Carl Snyder

Kristopher Carl Snyder, affectionately known as KC, passed away at his home in Claremore, Oklahoma, on April 15, 2025, after a difficult battle with mental illness. He was 51. KC was born on July 8, 1973, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Marilyn Scheer and the late Jon Snyder. As a child, KC was a natural in front of the camera—gracing the cover of Better Homes and Gardens multiple times. He liked to say he was responsible for a baby boom, a theory he maintained with charm and a smile. He was a beautiful, deeply intelligent soul who found joy in the simple pleasures of life—cooking and savoring good food, immersing himself in nature, staying active, and seeking meaningful connection. On July 22, 2000, he married Melissa Snyder in Joplin, Missouri. Their life together was rich and full—marked by four homes, an adventurous array of pets, career journeys, travel around the world, and most importantly, the birth of their two beloved children, Melanie and Spencer Snyder. Being their dad was his greatest pride and joy. KC graduated as Valedictorian from KCA in Kansas City, Missouri, and went on to study engineering at the University of Missouri–Rolla (now Missouri S&T). He was a proud Pi Kappa Phi brother, treasuring memories of St. Pat's festivities and the annual pig roast. KC’s professional career was as impressive as it was diverse. He worked as a mechanical and patent engineer in various industries: designing spacecraft batteries at Eagle Picher, developing oil pump patents at Baker Hughes, advancing intellectual property at Navico, and most recently contributing to research and development at Myers Industries. KC had a big heart and a spirit of service. A dedicated Toastmaster for over 15 years, he inspired and mentored many in the Tulsa area. He rode the MS 150-mile bike ride annually, raising thousands of dollars to support MS research. KC was also a marathon runner, Red Cross blood donor, yoga enthusiast, group fitness leader, and fearless pickleball player—always making athleticism look effortless. In addition to his many achievements, KC cherished his time as a Cub and Boy Scout leader with Spencer. He spent several years leading and participating in scouting adventures—campouts, hikes, and all the spirited activities that made up their father-son journey. Those outings created cherished memories and lasting bonds with other scouts and families. He will be remembered for his genuine smile, quick wit, loving heart, and endearing quirks. KC was our beloved “kitchen fairy,” the frugal fixer of all things, a generous soul who gave his all to those around him—whether through volunteer work, a perfectly timed joke, or a home-cooked meal. His legacy is one of love, curiosity, service, and joy. KC is survived by his loving wife Melissa; children Melanie and Spencer; his mother Marilyn Scheer; his siblings Joel Snyder and Jessica Snyder; step sisters Kristin Scheer, Kim Scheer and Kelly Delgado; several nieces and nephews; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Jon Snyder; stepfather Rolly Scheer; grandparents Bill and Jean Cramer of Overland Park, KS; grandmother Lorraine Snyder of New Ulm, MN; and grandfather Bill Snyder of Clinton, IA. Correction: A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 8th at 4:00 PM at CSL in Kansas City. Updated details will be shared as they become available. All who knew and loved KC are welcome to attend and help celebrate the incredible life he lived. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Bike MS (https://events.nationalmssociety.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donate.event&eventID=578&language=en) in his name or donations to Venmo @melmssc to contribute to his memorial celebration of life.

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Kristopher Carl Snyder

July 8, 1973 - April 15, 2025