This news breaks my heart, as Jeff was not simply a master explorer, or a friend, but a sweet and good hearted guy, always prepared to give, help, and listen. I invited him to my birthday party at the end of August and never thought to ask why he didn't reply.
I met Jeff in 1996 or so when he and I were active with the Toronto 2600 community, and it was immediately clear we were like-minded. When my site
Function was coming to life in 1997, I really looked to him for advice, as Infiltration was an obvious and personal influence on the direction. Jeff seemed to see it as an artistic take on certain aspects of the urban space, whereas we all know he approached the topic with both the curious joy of a child and the precision of an engineer.
I recall, on a grimy ladder in a room so dark I could barely see, being very clear in my mind that I deeply trusted Jeff as he led above. I had faith in both his ethics, and his good judgement, at all times.
I gave Jeff a Christmas present years back, and met Liz at that time. I won't say what that present was, but I do sadly still have one I had kept for him: a spare, discarded tile from one of the newer subway stations that was never mounted on a wall. I think I'll hang onto it now, Jeff.
The UE community has grown into something that I don't think was anticipated back then in '96, and has taken on an incredible life of its own. I know for a fact that Jeff was immensely proud of that, but in particular I want to mention that despite his role, he
in no way felt his own accomplishments led the way for those who followed, but rather that UE was evolving as it should, naturally and in a most impressive manner. My own UE evolution began with Jeff, changed my life, and still influences my pursuits today (i.e. being a part of the growing Parkour scene in Toronto) ... and for this I thank him very much for everything he's done and for being part of my life.
Jeff knew something inherently, and never questioned it ... a concept with new facets I continue to explore today:
the city is our terrain to interpret and enjoy, and all of it is beautiful.
Peace, my friend. It has been good, and I'll never forget you. This place, and we, all bear your mark.
T.