Frederick Suroff

Frederick Suroff, age 85, of Sedalia, MO, died on Feb 2, 2022, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, MO.

Fred was born on Sept 1, 1936, in St. Louis, MO, to Harry and Tillie Bushman Suroff. He was married to Karen Alvey Suroff in Cedar Falls, Iowa on Oct 10, 1965.

Fred enlisted in the Army during the Korean War. He played Baseball for the Army Team and was scouted by major league baseball. With no prior experience Fred auditioned with the Caribbean Armed Forces Radio and Television and was hired. Upon discharge he attended the Univ of Missouri, SFCC and earned his Master’s Degree from UCM in 1983. Following discharge he worked as a disc jockey and program director for stations in MO, Illinois and Iowa.

A new passion started growing to be a MO State Trooper which he joined Jan 3, 1966 and served for 31 years, the last 25 in Pettis County.

Fred was known as “The Voice of the Missouri State Highway Patrol” in this area, doing public and road safety service announcements for the MSHP. He also narrated training films and videos for the highway patrol including one for the Boeing Co. Fred was a member of the Troop A Shooting Team and was considered an excellent marksman. He was involved in the KC Riots, Lincoln Univ, and the firefighters strikes. He was on the security team for several governor’s conventions. One memorable interaction was with Gov. Nelson Rockefeller of NY who needed a dime for the pay phone which Fred provided. When the Gov. attempted to return the dime, Fred declined and said, “I want to tell my grandchildren that I gave Gov. Rockefeller a dime.”

Fred was a past member of Crime Stoppers and currently a member of the Rod and Gun Club where he maintained his shooting skills after retirement. Fred had a quick sense of humor, was an optimist and a great storyteller. He was proud of his sons and taught them the importance of having good reputations, the importance of education and for them to set lofty goals for themselves.

Fred is survived by his wife, Karen of 56 years, who was his life’s loving partner and best friend; sons, Aaron and Adam (Rebecca); three grandchildren, Emma, Caroline and Harrison; a brother, Victor (Paula); a niece and nephews.

A private graveside burial was held on Feb 6

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. Rabbi Phil Cohen of Columbia, MO officiated. A veteran’s honor ceremony was held and MSHP Troopers were casket bearers. A contribution may be made to veterans groups, cancer research or the Master’s Program (a group who help families of troopers killed in the line of duty), in care of Heckart Funeral Home, P.O. Box 434, Sedalia, MO 65302.