The mold was broke after the arrival of Jeffrey Jacob Elzinga. I had the pleasure of being his friend for over 40 years, and his DJ partner for many years. We started doing high school dances before either of has had a drivers license and as soon as Jeff turned 16 we were off to the races and worked almost every weekend we could get booked. Weddings/ birthday/anniversary parties followed and soon we had an agent booking us. It was an honor to be the guy standing behind Jeff spinning disks as Jeff would whip the crowd into a frenzy. To say he was the best DJ is an understatement, he was the most charismatic, energetic maniac with a mic in his hands and it was magical to watch.
Jeff was also the most authentic human being on the planet. You knew exactly where you stood with him, and he didn't have a filter. He said exactly what was on his mind and didn't care if it was PC. He was passionate and unapologetic but always true to himself.
Jeff was caring and kind, would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. He had a soft spot for animals, especially rescues, and loved his cats dearly. This is evident in his request for donations to help strays.
Finally, Jeff loved his friends and family deeply. I was blessed to have been a part of a weekly video chat with him and several friends during this pandemic. Jeff and Stephanie also came to visit this summer. The things he most talked about were his beautiful wife, his amazing kids, his friends, music, and his kitties.
I keep saying 'gone but not forgotten' knowing that it is true. If you ever had the pleasure of knowing Jeffrey Jacob Elzinga you will never forget him, and I know I will never, and am a better person for having the pleasure.
