Orval Van Surls

Orval V. Surls
A resident of Okeechobee since 1959, Orval V. Surls peacefully passed away January 30, 2024. He was born in Audrain County, Missouri on the 18th of August 1929 to John and Muriel Surls.
He was a proud graduate of Audrain County High School, class of 1946. He soon joined the Unites States Marine Corps and was later honorably discharged due to an illness. In his early life he became a very talented and respected race car driver and obtained numerous trophies and was a regular in the "Speed Week Magazine".
Later in life, he became a full time transport truck driver, hauling milk, cattle, and nitrogen to Cape Canaveral and he would fuel the rockets. He finished off his working career by retiring with the Okeechobee County Road Department.
After retirement he relocated to River Ranch Properties in Polk County, where he became family to all the locals and had many friendships with others there. He enjoyed building and driving hunting buggies.
Orval was a deeply beloved father and friend. He had a very full life, being born at the beginning of the Great Depression and living through many wars. He was able to meet Joe Dimaggio and even had conversations with President Harry Truman.
While we lost our most beloved father, many have lost a friend and loved one in him also. He has been a father figure for many. There was so much more to him than just dad, though to us that was his greatest role.
He is survived by his children, Chester (Joy) Surls, of Okeechobee, Sabrina Dehmer, of Minnesota, Terriea (Tim) Pethybridge, of Okeechobee; stepson, Sam (Nicky) Allgood of Okeechobee; many grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, February 2, 2024, at Buxton Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home.
Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com
All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.