Birth date: Jan 30, 1958 Death date: Dec 22, 2019
Jeffrey Cass Morrell, age 61, passed away in peace on December 22, 2019 at his home in Kailua, O’ahu. He was surrounded by his loving family. Jeff was born on January 30, 1958 in Jamestown, New York, the son of John and Judy Morr Read Obituary
We were saddened to hear of Jeff’s passing recently. Unfortunately we were unable to attend the services, but would like to send along our deepest condolences to Laurel and the girls. Not only were we part of the Hanahauoli family, but shared fond memories of Jeff in Whistler and out surfing. Jeff’s smiling presence was always welcoming.
The Shibuya Ohana
A donation has been made to Access Surf in memory of Jeff Morrell from our family.
During one visit to the Morrell's in Greensburg, I remember a foggy morning run with Jeff. I was probably in middle school, and he would have been in college, but he not only tolerated a run with a younger cousin, he also insisted on running in front and waving his arms wildly above his head through the fog as we crested each hill, to alert any oncoming cars. To me this memory is emblematic of the care that Jeff showed for others, and how he perfectly balanced safety, generosity, and fun. And then again at Hanauma Bay when we visited with our kids, there was Jeff making sure that my youngest could find his way safely against the current and through the surf. Jeff's kindness and helpfulness seemed effortless.
Laurel, Kai, and Ke'ala, our love is with you.
Love,
Laura Vimmerstedt
I was so sorry to hear about Jeffrey's passing! I can only imagine what a devastating loss this is for your entire family (and of course, for everyone who loved him). I remember being so fascinated by all of the interesting facts he knew about things, and I loved listening to him talk about his hobbies and interests. His passion for those hobbies and interests was infectious, and prompted me to want to find out more about those things, so I could feel excited about them, too. I loved his sense of humor, and the sound of his laughter. He, and the entire Morrell family, are central figures in many of my best memories from my childhood. Much love to your whole family as you negotiate the various emotions you're experiencing. I hope wonderful memories will help to sustain you through that process. The world is a little less bright with his loss . . . but those who were touched by his spirit, while he was with us, are so much richer for it, and they will continue to carry his light inside of them. May he Rest In Peace.
Love and Condolences,
Suzanne Crozier Moreland (George and Louise Crozier's daughter)
I was only in close proximity to Jeff for a few years, during the 80's, but we had so many great adventures during those years. One that comes to mind right off the bat was a Sunday in March or April, probably in 1984 or so. Beth, Jeff and Paul kidnapped me to go to Point Reyes. I was on the phone early Sunday morning, so they couldn't reach me to say they were on the way (pre cell phone days!), so they simply came over the hill and picked me up. At the time they were living at Castro and 18th and I was at Castro and 24th. Even though we were close by, there was a considerable hill between us.
I was in my pjs and working on my taxes. They convinced me I should get dressed and do my taxes later. Point Reyes was calling. We had an absolutely splendid day. It was gorgeous. Somehow we got off the trail and ended up bushwhacking our way out of a small ravine, Jeff leading the way. Something that was completing out of my comfort zone and way beyond my experience - but knowing Jeff was in the lead made me feel safe, well, safe enough. When we left the park, there were deer along the side of the road. Again, something ordinary to me now, but very, very special then. As we drove home in Jeff's brand new Mazda with a sun roof (remember when a sunroof was an extravagant novelty?), Beth and I put the back seat down and lay half in the trunk half in the car looking up through the sunroof at the sky. (So dangerous!!! No seatbelt?!?!? That's insane!!! What were we thinking!?!?!?) It was a wonderful adventure. I guess I did finish my taxes later.
Jeff was a fine human being. The world is less without him in it. Sending condolences and love to all of his family. Wishing them all comfort and peace.
Jeff on the Pali above Kailua Bay.
Jeff’s parents, siblings and their families were (almost) all together for John and Judy Morrell’s 60th wedding anniversary celebration. As you can imagine, lots of stories were being told at this party! We missed Ke’ala that weekend.
