KIRKWOOD, Mo. – As Damon Snow approaches his 100th birthday on July 30, he reflects on a century filled with experiences that have shaped his life. Snow, a World War II veteran, shares insights into his journey and offers wisdom for future generations.
Snow, who admits his body feels 100 but his mind feels closer to 60, has lived through remarkable events. He met his wife in high school, served in the military, and pursued higher education, all while maintaining a positive outlook on life.
“I was in high school at Kirkwood and met my wife when she moved to our area for school,” Snow said. They got engaged after high school.
During his military service, Snow trained as a bombardier, the crewman responsible for aerial bombs, and trained to hit targets. Snow said he was commissioned on a Boeing B-17.
“We trained at various locations, including the University of Nevada and Santa Ana, California. I chose to be a bombardier, which felt like the best fit for me,” Snow said.
Snow recalled that after training, while waiting for his assignment, he attended an officers’ club meeting at the Casper Army Air Base in Casper, Wyoming. While there, he learned that married officers made more money than single ones.
Snow called his high school sweetheart, now fiancée, Alene Gaebler, and had her come to Casper, Wyoming. One of Snow’s sisters took Alene to the train station in Kirkwood.
Snow said his mother’s advice to him was, “Don’t you kids do anything foolish like get married.”
Snow and Alene got married and spent two or three weeks together before Snow was assigned to a location in India.
After the war, Snow took advantage of the GI Bill and pursued higher education, eventually graduating with a degree in engineering. Snow emphasized that education is vital, but trades like plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry are also essential and offer great opportunities.
Snow also reflected on the importance of moderation and avoiding excess in life. He credits his longevity to good genes, a healthy lifestyle, and a supportive family. His mother lived to 102 and a half, and he has followed her example by avoiding smoking and maintaining a balanced life.
Alene passed away in February of 2020 due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. She was 95.
Snow offers advice to younger generations saying the importance of hard work and focusing on what your goals are.
“There are so many distractions now that didn’t exist when I was young,” Snow said. “It’s crucial to concentrate on what you want to do with your life and work hard.”
At 100, Snow is still cutting his own grass, maintaining his house and car, and doing household repairs for his son and daughter. He’s also trying to hide the purchase of a new motorized bike from his kids.
Every Sunday, Snow shows up at St. John United Church of Christ in Manchester in his spotless Cadillac convertible, cruising to music from many generations.
