In Loving Memory of Ralph Thomas "Tom" Snider Jr.

1939 – 2025

Ralph Thomas Snider Jr. (Tom) of Evanston, IL graduated from the mortal realm on Monday, May 5th at the age of 85.

Tom was born in upstate New York in 1939 and raised in Chicago. He graduated from Steinmetz High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Northwestern University. He loved learning and never stopped, completing multiple graduate degrees and even auditing classes at Northwestern for fun in his retirement.

He began his career teaching biology at Maine East and Maine South High Schools in Park Ridge, Illinois. Although he eventually took his talents into the world of college admissions, first at Washington University in St. Louis, then the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, and finally Butler University, where he served as Vice President for Enrollment Management, he never lost his love of teaching and was always willing to patiently explain topics ranging from marketing to the best way to bake a pie. He also served on the College Board, where he helped to make the SAT more accessible to all students.

Even in retirement, Tom's expertise remained in demand. He volunteered to help local high school students navigate the college admissions process. He also worked as a consultant, still shaping higher education and doing what he loved best: helping students find their way.

Outside of work, Tom was a man of many passions. He loved running, golf, curling (yes, curling), playing pool, theater, art, and the occasional margarita - preferably enjoyed on a patio with friends and family. He loved to travel and visited every continent except for Antarctica. His greatest passion was music; he was equally at home at the opera and a country line dance.

He was the proud father of Tom (Katie) and Jennie, and a doting grandfather to Annie and Molly, He is preceded in death by his wife, Jennie Hickel Snider, a Medill alumni who surely would have written a far better obituary than this one.

He was a beloved brother to Diane (Tom) and Bob, and a devoted uncle to his nine nieces and nephews. He was also a beloved honorary member of the Kelly/Fleming clan, celebrating countless holidays and family events with them over the past 20 years.

Tom will be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, terrible puns, and the ability to turn even the most mundane moment into something memorable. He leaves behind a legacy of learning, laughter, and love.

Visitation Friday 4:00pm- 8:00pm at Cooney Funeral Home located at 625 Busse Hwy. in Park Ridge. Saturday visitation 9:00am- 9:45am at Saint Andrew Lutheran in Park Ridge, followed by a funeral service at 9:45am.

In remembrance of Tom's life and love of helping others, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Open Heart Magic.