Jeffrey "Jeff" Skuza

jeffrey

 Jeffrey “Jeff” Alan Skuza, Fargo, ND passed away on March 11, 2014 at the age of 47. He was born April 22, 1966 in Minneapolis, MN to Thomas and Donna Skuza.

Jeff grew up in Becker, MN and graduated from Becker High School in 1984. He went on to earn his Criminal Justice degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 1988. While completing college he worked as a Loss Prevention Officer for Target Corporation and later at Nash Finch Corporation in Fargo, ND.  While working for Nash Finch he was transferred to Sioux Falls, SD in 1989.

On September 12, 1990, he met the love of his life, Sherrie Brown, of Dell Rapids. They fell in love on the dance floor that night. On September 28, 1991, they were united in marriage in Dell Rapids, SD and moved to Fargo, ND that week where Jeff began his Law Enforcement career with the Fargo Police Department on October 7, 1991.

Jeff started his 22 year career as a patrol officer on the north side of Fargo. For several years during this time he served as a Field Training Officer (FTO) for numerous trainees. He was promoted to Sergeant in January 2001. As a Sergeant, he supervised Patrol, the Training Facility, and Investigations. He also served as Public Information Officer. He was a founding member of the Peer Assistance Crisis Team (PACT). PACT is a group of individuals with representation from all Emergency Services that helps emergency responders deal with stressful events. From 2006-2007 he sat on the Board of Directors for the Red River Children’s Advocacy Center. Jeff was a key individual in fighting the floods in Fargo.  Jeff was nominated in 2009 for “Police Officer of the Year”. In July 2010 he traveled to Quantico, VA to attend a 10 week program at the FBI National Academy. He graduated from the 242nd Academy on September 17, 2010. On March 21, 2011, Jeff was promoted to Lieutenant. In March 2012, Jeff received a letter from the Secret Service for his support and assistance to them during a visit from Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney.  As a leader, Jeff always wanted to recognize and support his officers. He has been a long-term member of the National Fraternal Order of Police and Charter Member of the North Dakota Red River Valley Lodge.  Jeff coordinated the start of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program within Fargo Police Department. He was involved in the regional coordination of the Regional CIT Team.

Although he was very dedicated to his job, the most important aspect of his life was his family. As the oldest child, he was always helpful and protective of his siblings and his parents. When he had a family of his own, he continued to be just as dedicated.  Jeff stated many times that being a father was the best job in the world. He cherished the time he was able to spend with his boys, especially outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, and hunting. As a family, they enjoyed quality time spent together at their seasonal lake site in Northern Minnesota. They enjoyed many family trips over the years, including a trip to Australia in 2003.

Jeff is survived by his wife of 22 years, Sherrie, two sons Travis and Nicholas, all of Fargo;  his parents, Tom and Donna Skuza, Alexandria MN;  his brother, Richard (Tracy), Sioux Falls, SD; his sister, Sally (Greg) Venema, St. Michael, MN; his grandmother, Dorothy Zoerb, Minneapolis, MN; uncle, Don (Jeanette) Zoerb, Palmer, AK; aunt, Dawn (Jon) Rasmussen, Kennett Square, PA; uncle Doug Skuza, Clear Lake, MN; his mother-in-law, Elaine Brown, Dell Rapids, SD; his father-in-law Earl Brown, Dell Rapids, SD; his brothers-in-law Tony (Rose) Brown, Dell Rapids, SD; Jeff Brown, Colman, SD; Dan Brown, Dell Rapids, SD; 14 nieces and nephews and many cousins.

Jeff is preceded in death by his grandparents, Arthur “Art” and Emma Skuza, and Donald W. Zoerb Sr, special friend, Troy Koskela, uncle, Dale Zoerb and aunt, Diane Thorson.  

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  1. Twin Cities MN
    I do not know your family but often attended Mass at Saints Anne and Joachim Catholic Church while I was teaching at ND
    SU and completing my Masters degree.

    I read of LT. Skuza’s passing while searching for the obituary of the son of some friends of ours from Fargo, whose son died the same week, having lost his battle with depression.

    I want you to know that I have been praying for your family daily, that God will comfort you and give you strength.

  2. Dilworth MN
    Sherrie,
    I was very sad to hear of Jeff’s death. I never met Jeff in person but I saw him on tv and thought highly of him. I have met you a couple of times and you worked with my wife Paula and my daughter Carrie. I lost Paula a year ago and I know it’s not easy to lose your spouse. God will give you the strength to get past this tragic event and your life will go on. . . it will be very different but it will go on. God’s peace be with you.

    Breck Wilson

  3. I know that words cannot truly express enough, but I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for your family. What a wonderful father and member of our community.
    Sra. Petik

  4. fargo n.dakIts so hard at a time like this to think of the right words too say or use that could possibley help easy your pain. He was such a remarkable officer an human being who took his job serious but also had that senstive side to him. He will not only be missed by his family but by the community as well. Our thoughts an prayers are with you all. He defintly left his mark not only by being one of the BEST police officers but also with a beautiful family to carry on where he left off. from all the staff at Meican Village.

  5. Dell Rapids SDSherrie,
    Your entire family is in our prayers. May you feel the presence of Christ ever so close during this very difficult time. We are so sorry for your tremendous loss.
    Love,
    Brian & Kristine

  6. Sioux Falls SDOur Sincerest Condolences…On behalf of O’Gorman High School and the Skuza/Hansen SOFTBALLers you are in our Thoughts and Prayers.

  7. Fargo ND
    Jeff was been my direct Sgt. or Lt. for a majority of my career. I have always felt that Jeff was my biggest supporter in the police department. He had a special way of making people feel valued and important. I will deeply miss his leadership, friendship, sense of humor and his overall positivity. He left us too soon but his impact on me will stay for the rest of my life.

  8. Dell Rapids SDSherrie & Family,
    Praying that you may feel God’s loving arms wrap around you and hold you up, and that your hearts may be at peace one day. Cherish those memories and the beautiful years you were blessed to share! Continued love and prayers, Amy

  9. Fargo Our paths crossed at times while we both were doing our work for the community. He was there for me a couple times when I needed the squeeze on the shoulder and the “great job” “thanks”. You are a wonderful young man who is dearly missed. RIP my friend, I will miss those shoulder squeezes.

  10. I am sorry for the loss of Jeff, and my heart goes out to the entire family. We have all lost a wonderful man in our Community.

  11. Moorhead MnIt was a pleasure knowing and working with Jeff. He will be missed by so many. God bless Sherrie, Travis, and Nick.

  12. Moorhead MN
    I remember my very first police ride-a-long was with Jeff in the early 90s. I was just a teenager and was so thrilled to have the experience. I later got to know him professionally working for Cass County and serving as a CIT coach. Jeff will always be remembered as a great person and a great cop! My deepest sympathy goes out to his family, friends, and coworkers. May your cherished memories console you during this difficult time.

  13. Carson City NVSherrrie,

    Strength, healing and blessings to you and your boys now and in all the days that lie before you!

    Prayers and Love to you!

    ~jackie

  14. Fargo, ND
    I am so sorry to hear of Lt. Skuza’s passing. I hope that you can find strength and comfort in the love of your family. May it help you to know how many lives he touched and brightened with his kindness. Such a wonderful person will never be forgotten.

  15. West Fargo ND
    Skuza family,
    My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time. I had the opportunity to work with Jeff over the last 10 years and he was always very professional. I even had the chance to take him and his son hunting a few years ago. He will be missed by all!

    Zach and Heather Messmer
    Fargo, ND

  16. Blackduck MN
    Elaine is a cousin of Tom & Doug Skuza. I am known as one of the Bartosiewski twins. Leonard Bartosiewski was my father, Fred & Minnie were my grandparents from Popple Creek, MN
    .

    Our cousin Dick & Bev Golembeck e-mailed me about the death in our family.
    We express our sympathy to the family and pray the Lord’s Blessing upon them.
    Elaine

  17. Long Beach MississippiSherrie and family, my prayers and sympathy are with you in this time of sadness. May you find comfort in your memories and consolation in your faith. And may Jeff be at peace in the glory of our God for all eternity.

  18. Alva OKEveryone who knew Jeff grieves deeply with you.
    I knew Jeff during my time as a reporter for The Forum. In fact, I first met him when I did a story about Fargo cops going through the academy in Bismarck. I liked him immediately and my fondness for him only grew over the years. He was a great cop, but more importantly, he was a deeply decent man — honorable, friendly, caring. And I can tell you, every reporter who worked with him shares those feelings.
    The word “tragedy” often is used cheaply, but Jeff’s death is the true definition of the word. The world in general and Fargo in particular are much poorer without him. The family is in my thoughts.

  19. Bemidji MN
    Sherrie and family,
    Words are inadequate to express my deep sorrow for your loss of husband and father. Jeff was was such a stand up guy in all aspects of his life. He will be sadly missed by many. Hugs to help you get through this difficult time.
    Carolyn

  20. Officer Skuza was an excellent cop. He helped my family many times and was always so kind and caring. I was shocked by his untimely passing. It is unbelievable. For all the good he has done he will no doubt live on in many hearts and be missed by many. I am sorry to Sherrie and his 2 sons for their loss. This is indeed tragic. RIP Officer Skuza you will be remembered.

  21. Philadelphia PennsylvaniaI met Jeff at the FBI National Academy in the summer of 2010. I am a huge Minnesota
    Vikings fan living in Philly and Jeff and I hit it off big time talking about the Vikings. We never lost touch and have emailed each other many times since graduating. Praying for the Skuza family during this incredibly difficult time.

  22. Dell Rapids SDDear Sherrie, Travis, Nicholas, and Family,
    Our deepest and heartfelt sympathy. Our hearts and prayers go out to you. Jesus loves you and so do we! May you each cherish the good memories you have of Jeff and talk about them in the days ahead. We are so very sorry for your great loss.

  23. I am a school bus driver from Becker. I have never met any of your family. Still my heart goes out to all family and friends of Jeff. I am very touched with how he served his community and fellow officers. Please except my sympathy and prayers for your strength and healing.

  24. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff’s family and friends at this difficult time. I got to know Jeff while working as a dispatcher at the Fargo PD and later the Red River Regional Dispatch Center. While I have not seen or spoken Jeff in several years, my memories of him are that he was a consumate professional and wonderful person. I truly am saddened to hear of passing.
    May God bless you during this time.

  25. Moorhead MN
    On behalf of the Moorhead Police Department, as fellow brothers and sisters in law enforcement, I extend our sympathies and continued support to Jeff’s family and friends. During Jeff’s 22 years of public service we had countless opportunities to work along side him in everything from event planning to critical incidents. Jeff’s leadership and commitment to detail was always appreciated and certainly enhanced public safety for everyone. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and we thank Jeff for his service.

  26. Although my interactions with Jeff were short (I worked with him during the time I spent with the Safe Communities Coalition), my memories are ones of a great listener, strong leader and patient soul. God bless your family.

  27. Fargo ND
    Our hearts are breaking over the death of Jeff and pray for the peace and comfort for his family and friends thru the grace of our Lord and Saviour.
    Although we didn’t know Jeff, our son is a policeman and we can relate to your loss and anguish.
    We as citizens must learn to appreciate our men and women that work every day for our protection and carry such burdens within their heart and soul. It is not an easy life by any means and takes a lot of dedication and sacrifice.
    Our sincere heartfelt love and blessings to the family and friends of Jeff. Peace be with you all.

  28. St Michael MN
    My thoughts and prayers are with Jeff’s family. Jeff was a quiet, shy guy when I knew him in school. It is so sad to hear of his passing. May he rest in peace.
    (Carolyn Olson – BHS Class of ’84)

  29. bismarck ND
    God Bless Jeff and his
    Family and also his Family of
    Peace Officers. God, help these people through the grieving process and to move forward with the memories of this great man who is now with you. In Jesus Name, Amen.

    Darrell Graf, Chief (Ret. Disabled))

    Medina ND
    Police Department

  30. We miss you, Jeff. The few visits we had, living so far apart, were always wonderful. Thank you for being someone my husband, the love of my life, always looked up to. When I think of cousin Jeff, I see his smile and remember the laughter shared. I feel blessed to have known you and look forward to seeing you again someday.
    Love, Tamara Zoerb

  31. Hartford SDSherrie, Travis & Nick – We will always be here for you! Jeff was an amazing man. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

    May you see God’s light on the path ahead
    When the road you walk is dark.
    May you always hear,
    Even in your hour of sorrow,
    The gentle singing of the lark.
    When times are hard may hardness
    Never turn your heart to stone,
    May you always remember
    when the shadows fall—
    You do not walk alone. ~ Irish Blessing

  32. moorhead minnesotaNick and I remember the time that Jeff came to our assistance. Nick holds Jeff up there as a “special friend”.
    You two were always so cute together.

  33. Jamestown ND
    We are so sorry we loss a fellow police officer, he was a great asset to his dept. in Fargo, and will be greatly missed. Prayers sent to his wife, 2 sons, his family and his Fargo PD family. God understands the pressures of being a servant to the city for which he works, it is a tough job, and we pray for peace for all concerned. God Bless everupme!!

  34. Fargo ND
    My sincere condolences for the loss of your husband, dad and family member. I got to work with Jeff many times over the years and he was always kind and funny, and respectful to all people we came into contact with. When I was pregnant he congratulated me and talked of how wonderful it is to be a parent, “the best thing in the world.” I am thinking of you all.

  35. Thompson North Dakota
    I knew Jeff in my years at ND
    SU and was always impressed with his attention to detail and his professionalism. It’s always difficult to understand but so important to recognize the trials that we all face each day. May his memory be blessed and his service to those around him be honored. The Lord bless you and keep you in his love during this time.

  36. Sherrie and family,
    When I worked at Cancer Center, Sherrie was working there. You have my sincere sympathy, I can’t imagine the loss and grief you must feel. You are in my thoughts and prayers and may you know comfort with all the love that surrounds you. God be with you.
    Donna

  37. Corydon INWe are so sad, Rebecca and I were so happy to see your familiar faces in Miami, it really lifted us up. I have many good memories of working with Jeff, he was quick with a funny quip and had an infectious laugh. Our thoughts are with you and the boys. I can’t believe it.

  38. Dilworth MN
    I had the chance to get to know Jeff when he was running the Law Enforcement Training Center in Fargo and I was conducting firearms training for DEA in Fargo. Jeff was always a big help to me at the firearms range and he was fun to talk with after a day of shooting. My sympathy to Jeff’s family and friends and also to his extended family at the Fargo Police Department.

  39. Fargo Jeff will be missed by many but none more so than Sherrie & the boys.

    I lift you up in my prayers Sherrie, the boys & everyone else that is grieving at this time.

    RIP Jeff

  40. Davenport ND
    My first memories of Jeff are him coming home to have dinner with Sherrie and the boys. The minute that patrol car pulled up my kids were running up to Jeff asking him for a police badge sticker. He never tired of that and always met my kids with a smile.

    To Jeff’s family – may you find some comfort in the outpouring of support. He will be missed.

  41. Fargo ND
    I worked with Sherri years ago at what was then MeritCare.
    I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Sherri and sons. If you, Sherri, want to get together in the future, I am available. 701-282-3091. You have many friends here and we are praying for you all at this difficult time. God Bless.
    Karen

  42. Our deepest sympathy to the Skuza family.
    It was always a pleasure to see Jeff at functions or picking up kids during our Holy Spirit School years together. He was always so interesting to talk with and had a great sense of humor. We were also always so impressed each and every time we saw him on the news speaking on behalf of the police department – so professional and articulate. A fine man. We are praying for all of you.

  43. Fargo ND
    My son, Matt, has served on the Fargo Police Force with Jeff for over a decade and has the utmost respect for Jeff and all he has done for the force and for the people of Fargo. I extend my sincere condolences to Jeff’s family, and I pray that your memories of him will give you comfort throughout this difficult time.

  44. Sherrie and boys,

    We are so incredibly sorry for your loss. Jeff was the kindest and sweetest man. We so enjoyed seeing you at our wedding last June.
    Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during the very difficult time. You now have a beautiful angel watching over you.

    Love & prayers,
    Jack & Marie

  45. Fargo To Sherri and the boys.

    I knew Jeff back to the Holy Spirit days, I also live in N. Fargo and he was always a asset to Fargo Police Dept. I work at the Dome I had the please of seeing him on & off.

    He will be missed by so many & his memories will live with us forever.

    RIP Jeff.

  46. Fargo ND
    The tight-knit group in the lieutenant/D.C. office will never be the same without Jeff in our midst. Everyday we talked about policing, working together, and our families. It was the best… Jeff was a good friend to all of us and we all knew that if any of us needed anything, Jeff would drop whatever he was doing and be there for you. He was a perfectionist, the ultimate professional and a cops cop.

    Everytime Jeff talked about family, you could sense how proud he was of his boys, and how much he loved Sherrie.

    Sherrie, our hearts break for you and go out to you and the boys. We’re so sorry. We lift you up in our prayers.
    Dave and Yvette

  47. perham mnI remember officer skuza from when I use to live down town fargo at the fargoan and living at various address’s in and around the down town area and some of the restraunts him and other fellow officers would patronize.

  48. Andover MN
    Jeff’s Family (Sherrie and sons), Donna, Tom, Dick, Sally and my dear friend Dawn:

    My thoughts are with you and your families during this difficult time. May the love of those around you help you through the days ahead.

    I’m a friend of Jeff’s Aunt Dawn. She always talked highly of Jeff. Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss.

  49. West Fargo Prayers go out to all the members of the FPD and his family. Jeff and I go way back to the time we were 19 and worked at Target together…Back then Jeff was in charge of security and his call name was “Mr. Brooks”. He was always lurking behind shelves, etc.

    I’ve ran into Jeff thru the years now and then, he used to stop by my salon downtown, at night just to make sure thing were going ok… Such a nice man making his way around the businesses, getting to know the owners and workers.

    Sometimes he’d pull up next to my car just to say hi, asking if I’m staying out of trouble…lol. I am shocked and saddened by his death.. Heavens got a great man!! R.I.P Jeff!! You will be missed by everyone!

    Prayers to Sherrie and their boys…

  50. Denver CODear Sherrie,

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and guide you through this difficult time.

    JoAnn

  51. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Jeff, they will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. I first met Jeff while volunteering at an event, he always had a smile on his face. He was a loving caring person and will be in my heart & memories.

  52. Sherrie and family,
    Our deepest sympathy to all of you. We are so sorry. We have memories of our Holy Spirit School days and Jeff and boys and our boys involved with scouts. He was always so friendly and easy to talk to along with the help he offered.
    You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you on the palm of his hand.
    Sincerely,
    John and Sharon Beauclair and Family

  53. Fargo ND
    Skuza family,
    Myself and Faye are so sorry for your loss. Although I did not work for the same department as Jeff, I had many dealings with him because of our mutual careers. I can only imagine what you have to deal with. God bless

  54. Fargo ND
    My sincere condolences to the Skuza family and the area law enforcement community who worked with this remarkable and talented officer. I always had the utmost respect for Jeff when our paths crossed while I was employed by Cass County. My thoughts and prayers are with you all .

  55. Sherrie,

    With all my heart and soul may God bestow upon you and your family his broad shoulders to help carry you through your grieving. Jeff was a true friend who would do anything for me and others. He was a terrific officer and I am proud to have worked with him for 23 short years.

    He talked of you and your son’s daily and was proud to be your husband and a proud father of two wonderful sons. His work display is and always was of family. So great to see all the photos over the years. I admired and respected Jeff and always will! He was an amazing man, and a great officer and will be always remembered as such!

    Our thoughts and prayers for you and the boys will be continual and forever.

    Ozzy

  56. Fargo ND
    Sherrie and boys, our deepest sympathies on the loss of Jeff. I have fond memories of Holy Spirit days, the programs, visiting in the hall waiting to pick up the boys he was so kind, and engaging to all the parents, a loving soul. More recently, we got to catch up at the Shanley choir-band concert recognizing us as north side parents. My heart is so sad for you and the boys. May God comfort you during this difficult time. You are in my prayers.
    God Bless you all. Tess, Tom and John Christensen

  57. Fargo ND
    My deepest condolences go out to the Skuza family. Jeff was our patrol officer when we lived in North Fargo. He was always approachable, friendly & professional. He really cared about Fargo & all its citizens. He will be greatly missed in this community. My thoughts & prayers go to the Skuza family & the Fargo Police Department family. May God bless you all and help you get through this most difficult time.

  58. Dilworth MN
    My deepest heartfelt sympathy for you and your family on the loss someone so dear.
    I met Jeff when I worked in Municipal Court and even after I’d left there, if I saw him he remembered me and would share some conversation.
    My thoughts are of you and your family at this time hoping you can find some peace and I wish for you the best of memories in the days to come.
    Bev Slabik

  59. Egan SDSherrie and Family:

    My thoughts and prayer are with you today as you deal with the loss of your husband and father. No words can ease the burden, but know that I am thinking of you all.

    Pat Heinemann

  60. Sioux Falls SDSherrie and family ~ Words can’t begin express how sorry we are to hear about Jeff. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Time goes by so fast and we don’t get to see each other often enough. But we will carry our memories forever. Our memories of the times spent with you and Jeff are some of the best!! Stay strong.

    With Love & Hugs ~ Karen & Todd

  61. Fargo North Dakota
    Sherrie, My heart goes out to you and your boys. I remember when Jeff coached baseball with Leo, the boys big and little had so much fun.. May you feel our arms around you giving you strenghth.. Prayers to you always..

    Stacy and Leo Rognlin.

  62. Sherrie, our entire family sends all its love, condolences and prayer to you during this very difficult time. Jeff was an incredible and accomplished man and so proud of you, your work and the boys. You were both always so friendly, so approachable, so kind in our many conversations over the years at games, school, and when dropping off kids. At this time of tremendous loss, please know that while there is physical separation, the love never ends.
    Holding you closely in heart and prayer,
    Jane & Pat I. and family


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