Jeff was born on December 22 ^nd , 1951, to parents Malcolm and Elaine (nee Gerstner) in New York City, NY.  Until high school, he moved with his family to various locations according to the assignments of his father's naval career, ultimately settling and graduating high school in San Diego, CA.  Jeff earned a B.A. from the University of California San Diego in 1974, and his Juris Doctor from the California Western School of Law in 1976.

Jeff made a significant impact throughout his professional career, first as a lawyer and later as a judge.  He served as an attorney in various capacities including two years as Assistant City Prosecutor in Tulsa, OK.  Beginning in 1987 until 1995, he served as United States Magistrate Judge for the U.S. District Court, Northern District Oklahoma.  Always seeking new ways to learn and improve himself, Jeff completed his Master of Laws degree (LL.M.) at the University of San Diego, School of Law in 1990.  From 1995 until retirement in 2020, he served as a United States Administrative Law Judge with the Social Security Administration.

In addition to a serving as judge and civil servant, Jeff was a scholar and teacher of his profession, prolific in the publication of 29 articles in professional and academic journals across the country.  It was not enough for him to simply work within the established bounds of the legal profession, but rather he constantly questioned the status quo and sought ways to improve his field.  Always looking to pass on his knowledge, expertise and love of the law, Jeff taught at various law schools throughout his career including as adjunct faculty at the University of Tulsa.  Teaching was truly one of his passions, and his students were fortunate to study under him.

Throughout his life, all who knew Jeff personally admired and remarked on his genuine kindness and generosity.  Jeff was a devoted and loving son, brother, husband, father, step-father, grandfather, great-grandfather, father-in-law, uncle and friend.  In these duties he never faltered.  He was immensely proud of his own father's life and accomplishments, telling valorous sea stories to all who would listen.  Jeff is survived by his mother, brother and sister, wife, three children, two step-daughters, numerous grandchildren and countless other loving friends and family.

"Many doors open upon the course to be charted.  Many paths beckon." (J.S. Wolfe, 2000) A short but perceptive excerpt of one of the many articles he penned in his life reminds us that we have the opportunity to plot our own course.  Jeff lived his life well.  He chose his path deliberately, honorably and wisely; and made a positive, lasting impact on the people and world around him.