SIDNEY SNYDER Obituary

SIDNEY E. SNYDER, JR.

1931 2025

Sidney E. Snyder, Jr. passed away peacefully at his Nu'uanu home on September 21, 2025, with his daughters by his side.

Born in Seattle, Washington, in 1931 to Helen and Gene Snyder, Sid grew up on Mercer Island with his sister, Dr. Sally Snyder. His career in architecture brought him to Hawai'i in 1957, where he met and married his wife, Diana. They began their life together on the shores of Diamond Head at the Sans Souci while Sid worked for architect Vladimir Ossipoff.

Sid cherished his family, his friendships, and his expansive career in architecture. His passion for people, community, and design shone through in everything he did.

Deeply committed to civic service, Sid contributed to many organizations throughout his life. He served as President and Vice President of the American Institute of Architects, Hawai'i Chapter; Director of the Chamber of Commerce; Board Member of the Kapi'olani Park Preservation Society; Trustee of Palama Settlement; Director of the Hawai'i Council for Culture & the Arts; Director, Vice President, and President of the Save Diamond Head Association; Founding Director of Historic Hawai'i; Rotary Club of Honolulu - the club's longest-standing member. He also held roles with the Downtown Improvement Association, Convention Park Foundation, Waikiki Aquarium, University of Hawai'i National Architectural Accrediting Board, and many more. With Rotary, Sid and Diana joined international service trips, helping to build a boys' care home and a medical facility in Southeast Asia.



Sid's true calling was architecture. Licensed in Washington in 1956 and in the Territory of Hawai'i in 1959, he became a partner and later President of Ossipoff Snyder Architects. His work reflected his deep respect for the islands' climate and landscape, and his thoughtful designs remain a testament to his creativity and sensitivity to place.

Outside of work, Sid found joy in travel, hiking, sailing, skiing, cooking, entertaining, and spirited games of cribbage. He was an avid UH volleyball fan, a dedicated volunteer, and above all, a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His humor, kindness, and intellect were matched only by his infectious smile and quick wit, which made everyone feel welcome.

Sid is survived by his daughters Joslin Crowe (Jim) and Malia Snyder (John Immink); grandchildren Michael, James (Caroline), and David Crowe, and Mimi Hoffman; great-granddaughter Ryan Crowe; sister-in-law Pam Gough; niece Meghan Gough Read (Andy); brother-in-law Alan Joslin (Deborah Epstein); nephew Julian Epstein Joslin (Jessie); niece Dr. Isabella Epstein Joslin; and great-niece Sylvie Jean Joslin.

In keeping with his lifelong commitment to helping others, Sid participated in the University of Hawai'i John A. Burns School of Medicine Willed Body Program. In his memory, the family suggests honoring him by donating to a cause close to your heart.