Longtime county resident, Jess Arnold Snyder, concrete contractor, peacefully passed away on March 20, 2011.

Upon marrying his wife, Jennie, in 1949, Jess began a lifelong career in concrete construction. He joined Local 741 of the Cement Masons Union. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he was instrumental in the development of many of the communities which we now know as the Conejo, Simi and San Fernando Valleys, as well as building two homes for his growing family of eight children. After being tragically widowed in 1966, Jess married Sandra Pruett. Together they enjoyed traveling extensively and generously gave of their time to various service organizations. They worshipped regularly and enjoyed being a part of the church choir.

Jess will be sadly missed by his wife, Sandy; grown children, Tish, Lynda, Eric, James, Aaron, Kevin and Jessica; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as step-children, Gordon, Lisa, Terri and Rexene. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jennie, and son, Lance; his mother, Delores Bailey, and sister, Velia Bell.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Friday, April 8, in the Santa Clara Mortuary Chapel, 2370 North H Street, Oxnard. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, April 8, in the Santa Clara Mortuary Chapel. Interment will follow at Santa Clara Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that any donations be made to a charity of their choice. Mr. Snyder has been entrusted into the care of Santa Clara Mortuary, 485-5757. Memories and condolences may be sent to the Snyder family at www.santaclaramortuary.com.