Wayne Emerson Snyder Sr., 85, died on Aug. 10, 2026.

Born July 31, 1941, he was the son of Emerson and Marion (Roth) Snyder.

He graduated from Parkland High School in 1959, where he played varsity football as a running back and was vice president of his graduating class.

Following graduation, he served four years in the United States Navy.

Throughout his working life, he pursued a variety of careers, from shoe salesman and automobile service manager to investigator for the New York Railroad.

He ultimately devoted much of his career to law enforcement and public service, including serving as chief of police in Sugar Grove, Ill.

One of his proudest accomplishments was serving for 12 years as Lehigh County Coroner.

During his tenure, he helped expand the department and strengthen its investigative processes.

He worked closely with federal law enforcement agencies and local police departments, bringing valuable knowledge, professionalism, and expertise to the coroner’s office.

His leadership and dedication left a lasting mark on both the department and the community it served.

Outside of work, he enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, and dancing the polka.

His passion for racing also led him to spend time behind the wheel as a stock car driver at Dorney Park.

He is survived by his twin sister, Elaine Snyder; his children, Wendi Elizabeth and Wayne Snyder Jr., six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, two nieces and five nephews.

He celebrated his 85th birthday with his sister and family.

He was predeceased in death by his parents, Emerson Snyder and Marion Roth Snyder, and his daughter, Lori Seip.

He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his distinguished career in public service, and the enthusiasm with which he pursued the many interests that brought him joy.

A memorial service was held Aug. 17 at Trexler Funeral Home, 1625 W. Highland St., Allentown.

Memorial Contributions may be given to the American Heart Association, c/o the funeral home.

Online condolences may be offered at trexlerfuneralhome.com.