I didn't know Jeff that well but knew him to be a warm, kind and generous soul. I had the pleasure of being a classmate of his at JJHS and a bandmate. I sat behind him playing 4th chair trombone. He had a great sense of humor and was a great audience for my brand of jokery.  

I'm of the belief due to an audio  confession to me by Louis P. Baldonieri Jr aka  Louie Baldonieri that Jeff's computer was hacked and he was set-up to look unsavory in the eyes of his family, his employers, and friends which include the fraternal brotherhood  (and sisterhood) of musicians. It was said to me that Louie lured him up to cliff to blame his troubles on me. When Jeff refused to believe that and pointed the finger back at the accuser, Louie then pushed him to his tragic and untimely demise.

  Whether or not Louie is punished for these horrific acts. I want you all to know that with Jeff, what you saw was the real guy. He  showed love and respect to anyone who knew him, students, fellow teachers, musicals, and friends alike. With this you can only imagine how much he loved his wife and his children. Please remember him the way you knew him for that was who he was and should always be in the hearts and minds of anyone who was fortunate enough to be in his life. 

Rest in Peace, Jeff. If there is a heaven, I hope when my time comes you have a spot open for a singer. Hopefully my charts will come along with me. 

-Jonny Abeles 

JJHS  class of 1986