Floyd Jefferson Frost

Our beloved Husband, Father and Friend, Floyd Jefferson Frost, 77, passed away at the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico on October 1, 2023, after a brief illness.

Floyd was born on September 12, 1946 in Tacoma, Washington to Floyd Frost Sr. and Gladys Wachter. He is survived by his wife (Kristine Tollestrup), son and daughter-in-law (Christopher Frost and Kara Higa), daughter and son-in-law (Elizabeth Frost and David Savage), as well as many beloved family members.

Floyd was the first in his family to attend college, with degrees in Mathematics and Theoretical Biology from the University of Chicago. He later earned a doctoral degree in Epidemiology from the University of Washington. His parents were extremely proud of his academic accomplishments and always encouraged him to strive for the best no matter the situation. His work in public health focused on environmental epidemiology, especially water-related illnesses. He worked for many years in the Washington State Department of Health (where he met his wife, Kristine) and later at the Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute in Albuquerque, NM. Floyd conducted scientific studies on water-borne diseases locally and internationally. Floyd also was involved in studies on improving the outcomes of women's breast cancer treatment while he was doing research for several years in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He always sought ways to solve problems and address issues in creative ways.

Floyd pilot-tested every midterm and final exam his wife, Kristine, (also an epidemiologist) wrote for her UNM Public Health classes, which resulted in lively intellectual exchanges about epidemiology. Having two parents working passionately in public health created an environment for their children, Chris and Elizabeth, to also become committed to improving the lives of others through their own career paths. 

Floyd was devoted to his family. Floyd and Kristine would have celebrated their 37th anniversary later in October. He supported his children as they explored music, dance, and outdoor sports in addition to their school work. He attended ballet, choir and band performances, soccer games and cross-country meets even in the worst weather. One of Floyd's favorite hobbies was restoring an antique Model A Ford with his son, Chris. Floyd's loving influence on his children's lives is still strongly felt every day. 

Floyd loved classical music and had an extensive record collection. He was a talented musician (clarinet and recorder) and played in several local musical ensembles. Many of Floyd's instruments and records have been donated so that others at the University of New Mexico and in the Albuquerque community may continue to enjoy them.

Floyd will be remembered for his dry sense of humor and some of his famous phrases which became so endearing. He constantly reminded family, friends, students and colleagues to always follow their passions. He was a committed friend and colleague, always ready to help where he could. Even in his memory care home after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, Floyd was kind, considerate and concerned about the staff and other residents. He will be greatly missed by all.

A private burial service will be held at Sunset Memorial Park in Albuquerque, NM.

Memorial donations may be made in Floyd's name to Alzheimer's Association New Mexico Chapter (https://www.alz.org/newmexico).