Fred R. EgloffI am a Veteran.

of Kerrville, TX

November 30, 1934 - January 28, 2025


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Fred Egloff led a storied life. He was an award-winning author, automotive historian, and authority on the Old West. He was born on November 30, 1934, in Evanston, Illinois, and graduated in 1956 from Loyola University in Chicago with a Bachelor of Science in Commerce. He served in the US Army in the late 1950s and continued with reserve duty for many years. On June 30, 1962, he married Sharon (Sherry) Geyer, and they spent 63 fulfilling years together.

Fred had a profound love for the Old West, which led him to become an award-winning author and authority on Western history. He wrote "El Paso Lawman: G.W. Campbell," a finalist for the Western Writers of America "Spur" Award in 1982. Listed in Who's Who in America and Who's Who in the World, he authored numerous articles and books, delving into the history and culture of the American West. His intense quest for accuracy led him to review over 400 nonfiction Western books for Booklist. Fred's dedication and passion for Western history earned him recognition and accolades, including the key to the city of El Paso for his writings on early El Paso history.

After retiring in 2007 and moving to Kerrville, Texas, Fred became deeply involved with the Museum of Western Art (MoWA). As a docent and overseer of the research library, he devoted nearly 5000 hours of volunteer work, and in 2011, he was named Remuda Volunteer of the Year. His colleagues remember Fred as a consummate storyteller, a never-ending source on the Old West, a compassionate man and a friend to all he met.

Fred's enthusiasm for vintage cars was equally remarkable. He was a licensed National SCCA competitive driver who raced in many US and Mexico events. He was the only three-time winner of the National Lake Michigan Miglia. His beloved 1937 BMW 328, nicknamed "Smoke," won the 1939 Grand Prix in Holland. 1970, he won the Vintage Sports Car Club's Competition Trophy with his LeMans Frazer Nash. In 2006, Fred authored "Origin of the Checkered Flag: A Search for Racing's Holy Grail," which was lauded for its impeccable research. He wrote many national magazine articles, which contributed to his legacy as an automotive historian.

Fred Egloff passed away on January 28, 2025, in Kerrville, Texas. His parents and brother, E. Ralph Egloff, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Sherry, and two nieces. Fred's legacy as a historian, author, and race car enthusiast continues to inspire and be cherished by many. His funeral services will be held in Skokie, Illinois, with a memorial service at the Museum of Western Art on February 2. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Museum of Western Art.

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2 Condolence(s)
Dan Cortez
Kerrville, TX
Saturday, February 1, 2025

Fred was a great friend and I will miss him alot. Many Blessings and prayers.

Darrell Beauchamp
Kerrville, TX
Saturday, February 1, 2025

Fred was one of the good guys. His knowledge of the American West made him an important part of our team at the Museum of Western Art. He was an accomplished writer, sports car driver, and wonderful speaker. He will be missed by his many friends. Our condolences to Sherry. It was a race well run.