R.I.P.: Montana Broadcaster Dan Snyder

Dan Snyder

Dan Snyder, a pioneer of broadcasting in Montana, passed away at Peace Hospice in Kalispell on Wednesday at the age of 87, according to kbzk.com.

Snyder became well-known to television audiences across Montana as a long-time co-host with Norma Ashby of the Children's Miracle Network on MTN.

Snyder began his broadcast career in 1948 as an announcer for KGVO radio while he was still a student at the University of Montana.

In 1955 he founded KBGF, and in 1958 created KRTV, both in Great Falls.

In 2006, Snyder was inducted into the Montana Broadcasters' Hall of Fame.

A memorial service is tentatively planned for Sept. 7 in Kalispell.

According to the Montana Broadcasters Association, following the sale of KRTV, Snyder retired briefly before starting new careers in banking and commercial real estate development.

Broadcasting lured him back and in 1980 Snyder became the General Manager of KCAP AM-FM in Helena. He later served as GM for KGHL AM-FM in Billings before again "retiring" and going to work part-time for Anderson Broadcasting.