Hampton “Vince” Snidow, 83, passed away on Monday, April 3, 2023. He was born in Clintwood, VA and grew up in Eastern KY where he lived until he left home to attend VPI. In 1961 he received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and proudly served in L Company in the Corps of Cadets where he made many friends and lots of lasting memories.
Upon graduation, he got a job at Newport News Shipbuilding as a mechanical engineer and worked there for 50 years; he was a mentor to many. He left for three years to serve in the U.S Army and was honorably discharged as a 1st LT. He made many friends in the military as well. He served in the Army Reserves for a few years after returning to the shipyard.
In 1979, Vince married Nancy, whom he met through a mutual friend; he was a devoted husband. He is predeceased by his father, Hampton V. Snidow; his mother, Elizabeth C. Snidow; and his brother-law, Elwood Robinson. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his sister, Virginia S. Robinson; and many beloved cousins and dear friends.
Vince was a loyal Hokie, a proud Kentucky Colonel and a man of faith. He and Nancy attended North Riverside Baptist Church for many years and then Hidenwood Presbyterian. He was proud to support many local charities and became active in many of them. He and Nancy participated in the Relay for Life and the Walk to End ALZHEIMER’s for decades. He was recognized by the American Red Cross for giving gallons and gallons of blood from his college days until his health would no longer allow him to donate. His blood was very much in demand because it was missing a certain factor that made it suitable for newborns and those taking chemo.
Until his health began to fail, he enjoyed hiking, fishing, woodworking, sporting events, travel and the great out-of-doors. Nature was so healing and comforting to both him and Nancy. He was a history buff, an avid reader and a lover of museums.
After retiring in 2011 as a Master Shipbuilder, Vince’s health began to decline after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. He stayed as active as possible through the benefit of PT and the Big and Loud Program offered by Riverside Hospital and by taking daily walks. He entered LTC in 2018 due to mobility issues and the progression of dementia. After becoming bedridden following his bout with COVID, he continued to get pleasure from listening to CDs, eating his pureed food, receiving cards and gifts from friends and spending many hours with his wife each day when the pandemic lockdown ended. Until then, daily window visits had to suffice.
We appreciate every act of kindness from so many during this difficult time and all the Earth Angels for their love and support. We will be eternally grateful for each of you. A special thanks to Jerry who has been a steadfast Hokie friend through trying times.
His Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at Hidenwood Presbyterian Church officiated by Pastor Andrew Whitehead. Interment will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery with Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the mission fund of Hidenwood Presbyterian Church, 414 Hiden Blvd, Newport News, VA 23606 or to a charity of your choice that benefits underprivileged children or the elderly.
