Illustrious Sir H. Foster Snivley was born in Altoona, PA on March 1, 1941 and became a member of the world’s oldest fraternity in Lodge No. 61 in Wilkes-Barre, PA.
A widower, Illustrious Sir Snively was married to his beloved wife Bonda for more than 50 years and honored with two children, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. He retired after many years of dedicated service with the Pennsylvania Power & Light Co.
He was Initiated on December 8, 1973 as a Noble of the Mystic Shrine. He became “Chaps the Clown” in the Calliope Clown Unit, where he loved performing and working at the annual Jaffa Shrine Circus. He continued his Shrine career, serving on the Divan in various offices, finally being elected as the 109th Illustrious Potentate of the Jaffa Shrine Temple No. 91, A.A.O.N.M.S. in 2012.
He joined the Valley of Altoona, A.A.S.R., N.M.J., and became a 32° Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret on November 1, 1973. Years later, he was appointed to the Altoona Lodge of Perfection, 14° officer’s line, serving as its 63rd Thrice Potent Master, for 2015 – 2016. He was nominated by the Illustrious Brothers of the Valley to receive the 33° and approved by the Supreme Council, which he received in Indianapolis, Indiana on September 1, 2015.
He is a member of the Ancient York Rite bodies in Altoona, and became a RAM° in Mountain Chapter No. 189 – January 23, 2010; a Companion of Mountain Council No. 9 – RM° – February 3, 2011; SM° – April 4, 2011; and SEM° – March 23, 2013; and a Sir Knight in Mountain Commandery No. 10, K.T. – April 2, 2010.