Scott T. Coates, 53, St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away Monday, April 21, 2025.
He was born September 23, 1971 St. Joseph to Thomas and Mary (Smock) Coates in St. Joseph, Missouri.
Scott married Amber Lee West on July 7, 2012. She survives of the home.
He graduated from Lafayette High School in 1989 and went on to obtain his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Missouri Western State University.
Scott proudly served the St. Joseph Police Department for 21 years, diligently protecting his community as both a police officer and a detective. He was commissioned in September 1993 and retired in April 2014.
In March of 1996, Scott was selected to serve as an investigator in the newly formed Street Crimes Unit. It was during this assignment that he was partnered with Jeff Wilson. The unit's primary mission was to combat street-level narcotics and violent crime through the use of non-traditional investigative tactics. Scott excelled in this demanding role. The assignment required long hours, a change in appearance, the ability to conduct undercover operations, and a deep understanding of street-level tactics and operations — all of which Scott mastered. He played a key role in dismantling several of the largest illegal narcotics operations in St. Joseph at the time. Scott continued to serve in the Street Crimes Unit until June of 1998, when he transferred to the Detective Division.
His commitment to justice was rivaled only by his passion for sports. He enjoyed playing volleyball, basketball, and baseball. His presence was also a constant at his children's and nephews' practices and games.
An active member of the Living Hope Church and the Fraternal Order of Police, Scott's influence and camaraderie will be profoundly missed. His enthusiasm for True Crime Podcasts was well-known, reflecting his lifelong dedication to his field. Scott's legacy of integrity, kindness, and community spirit will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary; and niece, Alyssa Koch.
Survivors include his wife, Amber; children, Bailey Sipes (Erica), Madelynn Coates, and Jacob Coates; grandson, Benjamin Sipes; father, Thomas; sister, Jennifer Koch (Kyle); nephews, Tyson Koch (Bianca) and Dayne Koch.
Farewell Services and Public Livestream 10:00 A.M. Friday, Living Hope Church. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Scott Coates Benefit Fund at Nodaway Valley Bank. Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com.
