Jeffrey Hausz
On November 2, 2023, Jeff Hausz died after a 5-year battle with cerebral amyloid angiopathy, a brain disease. He is survived by his wife, Carla Stellwagen, his son Forrest and his brother, Steve Hausz, his niece Katelin Jepson and nephew Stasiu Geleszinski.
Born in New York City, he moved to Santa Barbara at the age of 7 and was adopted by his mother, Linda’s second husband, Walter Hausz. A true child of the California coast, he developed a life long love of surfing and shared that love with his son, Forrest. He attended San Marcos High in Santa Barbara before attending Reed College in Portland, Oregon and UC Santa Barbara.
He started his creative career as pastry chef at San Ysidro Guest Ranch before becoming the sous chef to John Downey at Penelope’s – during which time they received two full reviews in Gourmet magazine. He followed Chef John Downey from Penelope’s to help establish Downey’s in Santa Barbara. As a child Jeff had studied painting and drawing with local artist, Douglas Parshall. Following his restaurant career, he turned his interest back to the visual arts. He started a commercial venture that did specialized decorative painting on architectural surfaces. Jeff had an impeccable eye and could solve any creative problem that arose.
Becoming a father at 41, he discovered a new skill set as a father. The community at Crane School became a central focus where he often assisted with art projects for the annual auctions and flipped burgers for the Hot Lunch. For over 25 years he and his family participated in a growth community nurturing families through all stages of life – Satir Family Camp.
Known for his irreverent sense of humor, his creative talents were the heart of his being. In 2009 he moved to Bellingham WA to be close to Carla’s parents. His creative endeavors continued and he had time and space to develop his passion for ceramics. He also made a substantial life choice in joining AA and that community became an important part of his life.
Jeff’s memorial will takes place at 12 noon on December 17th at the Presidio Chapel on Canon Perdido in Santa Barbara.