Robert “Bobby” Martin Snyder, Jr. passed away on March 26, 2026, from a sudden medical event. He was born on December 10, 1948, and spent much of his childhood traveling the world with his family, as his father served as a U.S. diplomat.
Bobby graduated from Randolph-Macon Academy in Front Royal, Virginia, and went on to study architecture and interior design at Pratt Institute in New York. He met the love of his life, Annie, while she was teaching in Petersburg, West Virginia, through a specialized English program from France. Their story began in unforgettable fashion-after quite literally “falling head over heels” in a car accident and they were married in November of 1975.
In 1977, Bobby and Annie moved to Canaan Valley, where they began working at Canaan Valley State Park. As his career evolved, Bobby found his calling in construction, building homes and becoming deeply involved in development throughout Tucker County. He also served as an Inspector for the Canaan Valley Zoning District.
His passion for skiing led him to Timberline Mountain, where he served as Ski School Director and built a racing program and ski school unlike any other. Bobby was known not just for his expertise, but for his leadership and heart. He created a culture of camaraderie and belonging, always reminding instructors, “I can teach you to ski, but you have to be good with people.” He had a gift for making everyone feel valued, and his instructors affectionately referred to him as the Sonic Boom which he proudly made his email address.
Bobby’s background in architecture was highly regarded in the community, he was truly gifted. He chaired the Board of the Architectural Committee for Timberline Development, and at the same time, dedicated over 33 years to zoning and planning in Tucker County. He was a respected leader in resolving conflicts between builders and clients and played a key role in developing architectural guidelines that are still used today and have served as models for other communities.
Bobby’s many accomplishments included involvement in the Blackwater 100, 24 Hours of Canaan, and the Canaan Fifty. He was honored with induction into the Snowsports Museum Hall of Fame and served as Treasurer on the Board of Directors.
A lover of music, Bobby was especially passionate about Celtic sounds and bagpipes. He shared that love through his contributions to Cottrill’s Opera House, where his presence and enthusiasm left a lasting mark.
Bobby is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Annie; his sisters, Margaret Bensenhaver of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Shirley Williams of Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Becky Peters.
Bobby will be remembered for his warmth, his leadership, his humor, and his unwavering belief in people. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the community he helped shape, and the joy he brought to every room-and every mountain he graced.
A celebration of life will be held at a later time. Memorial contributions can be made in honor of Bobby Snyder to Cottrills Opera House or The Snowsports Museum.
The Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Homes – Davis Chapel is honored to be caring for the Snyder family.
