Clyde Surrell remembered by his former coach as the "Golden" one

Buffs former standout recently lost his life after dealing with health issues

Former Colorado Buffaloes safety Clyde Surrell passed away at 41. His death was announced by the program last month.

The Centennial State blue chip who played for Gary Barnett from 2000-03 was part of CU's Big 12 championship team as a sophomore. Surrell posted 143 tackles, (13 for loss), 4 sacks, 7 PDUs, 4 forced fumbles and an interception in 41 career games. The defensive back set CU's single-game mark in tackles, when he had a career-best 17 (and 15 solo) against Texas Tech in 2002.

One of those who has fond memories of Surrell is his former coach. "I have a lot of gray hairs because of Clyde, but wouldn't trade them for the world," Barnett told BuffsBeat. "Sean Tufts said it best when he said Surrell was "gold". He was a joy to coach and left an impact on those around him."

Barnett recruited Surrell while he was at Eaglecrest High School in Aurora. One of the in-state players who got recognition on the national scene, but decided to stay close to home. It was a much different time from now. There were no players jumping in and out of the transfer portal for a "better opportunity" elsewhere. One of the factors Barnett believes has tarnished college football.

"I wouldn't want to coach in today's game," Barnett admitted. "I would want to develop a kid throughout his entire collegiate career and that's not something that happens often with the current setup."

That's what he did with Surrell and many others who benefited from his guidance. Barnett moved on from CU after posting back-to-back conference title appearances. He returned as a member of the broadcast team beside 'Voice of the Buffs' Mark Johnson. 

While Surrell stayed connected through teammates despite health challenges. In 2018, he suffered a stroke that caused seizures over the course of three years. He survived the major setback six years ago. However, the complications hampered his ability to live a normal life. 

Among the many tributes after Surrell’s death was a post from Buffs4Life. The organization that helped him and his family through the initial health issues was saddened to hear about his untimely passing.

“Buffs4Life wants to send its deepest condolences to the friends, family, and teammate of CU Football Alum Clyde Surrell. Clyde passed away yesterday. Rest in Peace Buff."

Surrell was a “beloved father, fiancé, son, brother, and friend to many," according to a statement by CU. No information was provided about the cause of death.