A longtime Seneca Nation of Indians leader and businessman has died. Barry Snyder Sr. passed away Tuesday after a brief illness. Snyder, 79, was a five-time president of the Seneca Nation of Indians and served as its treasurer and a member of the Seneca National Council.
Snyder, a member of the Seneca's Hawk Clan, was born on the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation, and was brought up by his grandmother. He served in the U.S. Army for two years will perhaps best be remembered for spearheading development of the three regional casino gaming properties in Niagara Falls, Salamanca, and downtown Buffalo.
“Barry served our Nation during our time, but he will deservedly be looked upon as a leader for all times,” said Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong, Sr., in a statement. “Throughout his life and through his service, Barry elevated the Seneca Nation and the Seneca people. As President, he touched every facet of life on our territories.”
Snyder is survived by his wife, two sons, a sister, two brothers, 12 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandson.
