My thoughts of Louie,
I met Jeffrey about 38 years ago through a mutual friend. From the beginning he was easy to talk to, very interesting, and very handsome. We spent many hours driving around Grand Rapids or hanging out in his parent’s basement talking about the topics of the day, oh yeah, and listening to a lot of David Bowie & Lou Reed.
At the time I didn’t fully realize who Jeff  was or who he was going to be. I only knew that I liked him, and that we understood each other, and that we laughed a lot together, and that was a good thing.  When I went off to college and Jeff moved to Chicago I knew he was interested in art and was a gifted artist. I visited him a couple of times there, and saw him transform into what a fabulous city can make you become, sometimes great, sometimes not. He was his own work in progress. He wasn’t perfect, he knew that, but nobody is.
A little later, after I moved to San Francisco Jeff came out with his friend Jack and stayed for awhile to visit and possibly move there. Again I was seeing first-hand what a creative person he was turning out to be. One night he photographed me in Black & White (of course) and with barely anything to work with he created a beautiful vision of me, just using his imagination. I too became very interested in all kinds of artistic expression, but the difference was I had to study it and work at it, while for Jeff it was natural. It was part of his being.
I was sad when Jeff decided to go back to Chicago for I never saw him again until Nov. of 2006, about 30 years later. He had moved back to Michigan and I was finally going to see him when I returned for my mother’s birthday. He asked if he could design the centerpieces for my mother’s birthday celebration and I readily agreed. The centerpieces he created were a stunning tribute to my mother and her  profession. Only Louie could have created these visual works of art.
How Jeffrey saw the world was unique from most people’s view. As an artist, he saw through to another dimension that so few people see. He got it…and although he wasn’t always able to express himself verbally, he had that rare gift to express himself through creativity.
I am so glad that I was able to spend a few days with him and reconnect. It was like 38 years ago…endless & interesting conversation. He only called me once afterwards and left a message that he had moved & was doing okay. I admired his courage for making such big changes. He had moved away from his home base of Chicago and was trying to clear his head, seeking out help so that he could get his life back on track. Taking those steps takes guts. It would have been easier to do nothing.
I’ve thought about Jeff  “aka Louie” alot over the years and will continue to do so. I am sad that such a talented, creative person is gone too soon, but he will remain with me in my heart and mind.
My final thoughts to you Louie are that I want you to know that I get you, that with all of the drama life may bring I respect that you at least put yourself out there. It was your journey and in following Lou Reed’s advice…You took a walk on the wild side.  Continue your walk my friend.  Mala Mahlebashian

Mala Mahlebashian