Van Snowden

Van Snowden was a puppeteer and suit performer who was best known for his work in productions by Sid and Marty Krofft. He donned the suit of the title character on H.R. Pufnstuf and also did Sigmund and the Sea Monsters, Land of the Lost, and Lidsville. Van was also known for puppeteering the Crypt Keeper on Tales from the Crypt and puppeteering Chucky in the first 3 Child's Play films. Snowden seemed to be an expert on performing in the horror genre, but he was also an expert with kids. For kid projects, he puppeteered on Dumbo's Circus, Pee-Wee's Playhouse, D.C. Follies (also assistant puppet builder), and Toby Terrier. Some of the people he worked with include Sharon Baird, Patty Maloney, Sandey Grinn, and Todd Mattox, just to name a few. I've read that Van Snowden was also the head of Hasbro's puppeteer division for the last three years of his life, devising programming for several of its toys. In 2010, he died of cancer which meant the end of his career, but no production was ever made as a tribute to him. I wonder if Sid and Marty Krofft were upset hearing of his death and maybe made a project dedicated to him. At least his first character H.R. Pufnstuf was inherited by new performers when he guest starred on Mutt and Stuff. I hope Van felt touched that he was never forgotten by Krofft Puppets with him up in heaven watching all the action. At least Snowden will always be remembered by all the great performers he worked with over his time on television and film. Even if he didn't work with the Muppets, he still worked with people that have done the Muppets. Which means he did meet a bunch of Muppet people way before his death. Van Snowden, you were a great H.R. Pufnstuf and Crypt Keeper during your time on screen. Whether a puppeteer is alive or not, they're always welcome on my blog, this includes you too. Rest in peace and keep watching from heaven Van. Farewell Snowden!