Welcome to the Jeffrey C. Schrock Memorial Page

November 6, 1954 - February 14, 2004

A natural outdoorsman, Jeff was equally at home whether exploring the ocean, desert, mountains, or canyons. He spent his early years hiking, climbing, and mountaineering, often designing and manufacturing his own equipment. In fact, Jeff possessed an uncanny ability to figure out how anything worked. He was also a gifted inventor, creating many of the unique racks and labor saving devices that make operating a large kayaking outfitter possible.

Jeff believed that success comes from doing good work, and doing what you love. In 1985, he pioneered eco-tourism on the Monterey Peninsula when he started Monterey Bay Kayaks in Monterey and Moss Landing. The business combined his love of the ocean and his ingenuity with boats, while enabling him to reach out to people of all ages and abilities. Since then, Monterey Bay Kayaks has been recognized by numerous agencies for its work promoting marine education, environmental awareness and ecological stewardship. Most recently, he received the Ocean Champion Award from the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary Foundation.

Paddling with Jeff was always a rewarding experience, and never boring. He made every kayaking trip into a voyage of discovery, bringing his companions into a wondrous world that many never knew existed. As an amazing naturalist, he openly shared his joy and knowledge of the environment with all. On the water, he was unrivaled in his ability to find interesting plants and animals to share with anyone who wanted to learn.

Jeff displays a shark he scooped out of the water with his hand.

Jeff was a man of great integrity, courage and strength. His positive attitude, indomitable spirit, sense of humor, and unique vision inspired all those around him. While growing a business and raising a family, he never let his 15-year battle with a brain tumor slow him down. To those lucky enough to know him, Jeff Schrock was a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration.

Jeff Schrock was a man of many talents, who lived a life of wonder and purpose. We will miss him deeply, but take comfort from knowing that his great legacy endures.

Jeff is survived by wife and partner, Cass, two beautiful young children, Jenny and Max, mother Coral Schrock of La Mesa, CA, sisters Dyanne Riley of Provo, UT, and Paula Schnell of San Diego, CA, uncle and aunt Virgil and Ginny Schrock of Orinda, CA, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Ralph E. Schrock of San Diego, CA.

In lieu of flowers, any contributions can be made to The Jenny and Max Schrock Education Fund, c/o Wayne and Cheryll Daniel, 141 San Remo Drive, Carmel, CA 93923.