Ok, that worked.  I’m not sure if replacing the compression valve cover and/or possibly using the sea foam (which I just poured into the gas tank) solved the issue, but I can now easily pull start the snow blower now.  Thanks for the help and motivation.  I‘m all set for the next snow storm.  

Excellent!  Glad it worked out for ya...
 
For long time storage, I'd run the engine bone dry of fuel. (Generators for down here in Fl.) 
If a steel fuel tank, some pre-mix to keep rust from getting inside the tank. Dump before using.
I also put either a couple teaspoons of Seafoam in the top end (inside spark plug hole) and crank
over slowly to distribute and keep the internals moist with oil...
Leave the engine at TDC to keep moisture from getting in the cylinder.
If a butterfly choke, leave it closed as well (prevent critters from entering) 
 
Yamaha's Ring Free is a fuel additive I use in EVERY MACHINE I own or repair...  
It helps with carbon build up and cleaning the fuel system...

Maybe you can consider a fully automatic snow blower, which is easy to use and smarter.