Leif Snyder

April 17 has been declared Leif Snyder Appreciation in Minot in one of three proclamations issued by acting mayor Mark Jantzer this week.

Snyder, who ran for city council last year, was born on April 17, 1973, in Minot. He died from complications associated with diabetes on March 12.

He was active in the community in many ways, including as a hockey coach. He held a variety of jobs over the years and was actively engaged in the Minot political scene, holding local government entities accountable and maintaining relationships with local officials even when they had different viewpoints.

The proclamation stated Snyder “was a tireless advocate for his fellow North Dakotans, most notably the residents of Minot, and was a willing and supportive voice for those with disabilities, whom he encouraged to pursue their dreams and goals despite any hardships brought on by disabilities.”

“It means a lot to his close friends and his family members to see him recognized in this way,” Lisa Hermosillo, a friend, told the council. “He made a commitment more than most of us do, to be here at these meetings, and one of the biggest things he really pushed was for all of us to stay involved and to have a voice in how we feel and how we think things are going. This proclamation mirrored him perfectly, and I hope we all take things from that going forward in how we are active in our community.”

Jantzer also signed a proclamation on Monday designating last Tuesday as Bishop Ryan Boys Basketball Team Appreciation Day, recognizing the education and athletic achievements of students at Bishop Ryan Catholic School and acknowledging the state Class B Boys Basketball champion won on March 22. Members of the team appeared to accept the proclamation.

Jantzer proclaimed April as Month of the MIlitary Child as members of the military and their children gathered at Minot City Hall. This is the 38th anniversary of the Month of Military Child.