Robert M. Sneider

Robert M. Sneider Remembered

Robert M. Sneider, independent geologist and 2001 recipient of the AAPG Sidney Powers Memorial Award, died Oct. 29, just three weeks after the death of his wife, Ramona. He was 76.

Sneider, a New Jersey native, received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Rutgers University and served in the U.S. Army in Korea as a front line combat engineering officer. He returned to the University of Wisconsin and received a doctorate in economic geology and mining engineering, then went to work for Shell Oil after meeting Gustavus E. Archie, who became his friend and mentor over his 17 years at Shell.

In 1974 he and a Shell associate formed Sneider and Meckel Associates, and through the 1970s he was involved in projects that resulted in the discovery of over a dozen new fields, including the giant Elmsworth deep basin gas area of western Canada in conjunction with Canadian Hunter Exploration.

In 1981 Sneider founded Robert M. Sneider Exploration. His son, John, is a geologist and partner. Two other children are also involved in the oil industry.

Sneider taught many continuing education courses for AAPG; served multiple stints as a distinguished lecturer; and served on the Geophysical Integration and Education committees and was chairman off the Reservoir Development Committee.

In addition to the Powers award, Sneider received AAPG honorary membership and the Distinguished Service Award.

A Trustee Associate of the AAPG Foundation, Sneider established the Gustavus E. Archie Memorial Grant and the Gustavus E. Archie Memorial International Grant.