SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 549

In Memory

of

Shawn Michael Snider

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of Shawn Michael Snider, who died May 1, 2023, at the age of 58; and

WHEREAS, An esteemed Texan and a devoted public servant, Fire Chief Shawn Snider proudly served the City of Edinburg Fire Department and was a respected leader in the Edinburg community; he was a loving husband and father, and he exemplified the highest ideals of public service with honor and integrity throughout his decades of distinguished service to his community; and

WHEREAS, Shawn Snider was born on July 10, 1964, in San Diego and received his early education in Texas, where he attended schools in Tyler and Pharr; before the age of 18, he began his career as a firefighter by serving as a volunteer member of the City of Alamo Fire Department, where he also worked as a mechanic; realizing his life's calling, he rose through the ranks to become fire marshal for the Alamo Fire Department at the age of 24; in January of 1991, he joined the City of Edinburg Fire Department as assistant fire marshal, and in 1999, he accepted the position of fire chief of the Edinburg Fire Department and took on the role of emergency management coordinator for the city; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, Chief Snider generously devoted his time and energy on behalf of his community through his participation in many professional organizations; he served for 10 years as training coordinator for the Rio Grande Valley Firefighters' and Fire Marshals' Association, and among his many leadership roles, he served as a fire school instructor, a search and rescue task force leader, and chairman of the Hidalgo County Fire Chiefs Association; and

WHEREAS, Uncompromising in his work ethic and in his commitment to excellence, Chief Snider held certification in a range of areas of professional expertise, including as a master firefighter and peace officer; he achieved advanced certification as a fire inspector and arson investigator as well as being certified as a fire executive, public manager, and emergency medical technician; Chief Snider carried out the unique and multifaceted responsibilities of his position as fire chief with wisdom, diligence, and courage, and his steadfast efforts in support of his fellow firefighters and public servants earned him the enduring respect and admiration of his colleagues and of the Edinburg community; and

WHEREAS, Above all else, Shawn cherished his beloved wife of 31 years, Edna Snider, and his devoted daughter, Sarah; he was a loving brother, uncle, and cousin and an outstanding leader, mentor, and example to countless others; and

WHEREAS, Chief Snider was a pillar of the Edinburg community, and he was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church; his remarkable leadership, strength, and dedication to duty were a source of inspiration to those who knew him and to all who work to benefit the greater good, and he leaves behind memories that will be forever treasured by his loved ones and by all who were privileged to share in his life; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Shawn Michael Snider; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Shawn Snider.

Hinojosa

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 11, 2023, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate