Born in Sterling, Illinois, on November 19, 1980, to Lyle and Dawn Snyder, Erin grew up with a deep love for her family, lifelong friendships, and an unwavering passion for her favorite teams. She married the love of her life, John Matlick, on June 25, 2011. During their fifteen beautiful years of marriage, they built a life centered on love, faith, family, and countless adventures together while raising their two beloved children.
Erin was an enthusiastic fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Iowa Hawkeyes, but nothing brought her greater joy than cheering on her own family. Whether it was attending her children’s activities or gathering with friends and loved ones, Erin was always present with encouragement, enthusiasm, and love. She was never shy about sharing her opinions when it came to her favorite teams or reminding her children to always give their very best.
She will be remembered for her extraordinary kindness, unwavering strength, fierce loyalty, and infectious smile that could brighten any room. Erin embraced every role in her life with her whole heart-as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, friend, teacher, and source of inspiration to so many. Even throughout her illness, she met each day with grace, courage, gratitude, and an enduring concern for others.
Erin’s determination inspired the community to “Fight Like Erin,” a phrase that became much more than a slogan-it became a reminder to face life’s challenges with courage, hope, and perseverance.
