Anne Snyer, a woman of grace, warmth, and enduring community spirit, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025 in Bellevue, WA. She was born on June 13, 1937, on the farm of her parents, Gerald and Amelia (Schlegel) Rettig in East Orchard Mesa, east of Grand Junction, Colorado. Anne's life was a tapestry of service, curiosity, and connection.

Early Life and 4H Legacy

From childhood, Anne exhibited a quiet determination and passion for learning. Her early involvement in the 4H program shaped her lifelong dedication to nutrition, agriculture, and mentorship. A standout achievement came in late 1952, when her excellence in 4H earned her a paid trip to the Chicago National Convention--a milestone that foreshadowed her future as a global ambassador.

Anne graduated from Grand Junction High School in 1955. After graduating from Colorado State University in 1959, Anne was honored as a 4H State Representative, selected to represent the United States in Austria. For months, she immersed herself in the lives of four rural Austrian families, working alongside them on farms, learning their traditions, and sharing Colorado's agricultural heritage. Upon returning, she became an ambassador for 4H on behalf of Colorado where she toured the state, captivating audiences in over 200localities. Her camera captured countless moments of this transformative experience and she maintained lifelong friendships with those she met abroad.

A Life of Open Doors

Anne married the love of her life, Bill Snyer, on May 11, 1960. Together, they built a home defined by hospitality, where friends, neighbors, and international visitors were always welcomed with a home-cooked meal and heartfelt conversation. For decades, Anne and Bill hosted 4H exchange students from around the world fostering cross-cultural understanding and leaving an indelible mark on young lives.

Her kitchen became legendary, not only for her sweet apricot pineapple jam but also as a gathering place where stories were shared and strangers became family. Anne's belief in community extended to her active role in church choirs, where her soprano voice uplifted congregations in Cedaredge and beyond, as well as teaching many a class of Sunday school.

Legacy

Anne is survived by her husband of 64 years, Bill, her son Ross and daughter-in-law Michele, her daughter Lynne, her sister Geraldine, her brother Melvin (Maureen), her brother David; and countless family and friends across continents who were touched by her generosity. She was preceded in death by her brother Vernon (Sarah) and her brother-in-law Eugene Verano.
Her passing leaves a void, but her legacy lives on in:
 The playgrounds she championed for children's joy and growth.
 The global connections she nurtured through 4H exchanges.
 The recipes and traditions shared around countless tables.
 The hymns that still echo in the hearts of those who heard her sing.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." [Matthew 25:23]

Celebration of Life & Memorial Donations

A Celebration of Anne's Life will be held in June 2025 in Cedaredge, CO to honor her legacy of faith, service, and hospitality. More information to come!
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to one of the following organizations close to Anne's heart:
Hines Ugandan Ministry

Anne's compassion for global communities aligned with this ministry's mission to support education, healthcare, and spiritual growth in Uganda.

Donate online: https://hineskids.org/give/

Or by mail: Hines Ugandan Ministry, P.O. Box 1234, Cedaredge, CO 81413
Grand Mesa Baptist Church

A cornerstone of Anne's spiritual life, where she sang in the choir and helped organize community outreach programs for decades.

Funds will support the church's youth initiatives and international exchange programs, reflecting Anne's dedication to nurturing future generations.

Donate online: www.grandmesabaptist.org/give

Or by mail: Grand Mesa Baptist Church, 110 SE Jay Ave @HWY 65, Cedaredge, CO 81413