October 4, 1947 - November 12, 2025 (age 78)

Derrell “Du y” Wayne Snider was born on October 4, 1947, in Upland, California, to Ralph and Pearl Snider. He enjoyed what he described as, an idyllic childhood with his parents and older brother, Don, in the close-knit dairy community of Chino, California.

Derrell graduated from Chino High School, Cha ey College, and Cal Poly Pomona, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences. Later in life, he continued his love of learning by completing a Master’s degree in Teaching. In 1967, Derrell joined the U.S. Navy, where he served honorably for five years during the Vietnam War, both in active duty and in the reserves. His time in the military sparked a lifelong passion for aviation, eventually leading him to earn his Light Sport

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