Jeffrey Steven Koplow — A Big Heart, A Bigger Smile, and the Biggest Love for His Kids October 25, 2024

Jeffrey Steven Koplow left us far too soon on October 25, 2024, and the world is a little quieter and a lot less funny without him.

He is survived by his devoted mother, Toby Stolar; his greatest joys — his children, Chase and Maci Koplow; his longtime friend and wonderful co-parent, Erin Koplow; and his loving sisters, Randi Benatar and Penny (Keith) Grumer. Also missing him deeply are his nieces and nephews: Natalie (Jason) Staple, Michael (Alyssa) Salerno, Hallie (Kevin) Grumer, Madison (Stephen) Ferrara, and Shelby Grumer.

Jeff had a gift — actually, several. He could light up a room with a smile, disarm anyone with a perfectly timed joke and make strangers feel like old friends within minutes. His charm wasn’t rehearsed; it was just who he was. Whether on a movie set, at a restaurant, or in the most random of places, Jeff left an impression. He had that rare ability to connect, and once he did, you never forgot him.

He loved dogs fiercely, sometimes more than humans (and you couldn’t really blame him). He was a talented painter and a passionate home chef, known for meals that were as flavorful as his stories (and only occasionally set off the smoke alarm). His creativity was matched only by his humor, and his humor only by his heart.

But more than anything, Jeff was a dad. That was his favorite role. Watching Chase thrive as a water polo standout and proud USC Trojan brought him boundless joy. And Maci — a USC Trojan as well — an artist with a heart as big as her dad’s, shared a connection with Jeff that was simply unshakable. They had him wrapped around their fingers, and he wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Jeff’s legacy isn’t just in the meals he made, the art he created, or the laughter he sparked — it’s in the people who loved him. And most of all, in Chase and Maci. They were his heart, his purpose, and everything he hoped to give the world.

If you knew Jeff, you probably have at least one story that makes you laugh, and maybe one that makes you tear up. That’s who he was. Funny, loyal, full of life, and deeply loving.

In his honor, tell a great story, laugh a little louder, love a little harder, and if you have a dog nearby, give them an extra treat — Jeff would insist.

Services entrusted to Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel, 933 Lee Road, Suite 101, Orlando, Florida 407-599-1180.