Jeff “Jefe” Mankin was a unique person to say the least. He was a sharp, quick witted, jolly, charismatic, and just all around happy person that everyone loved to be around. I think those of us who were close to him knew him best by his character impressions that he acted out so well. I heard many times over the past several years that he should be a stand up comedian. He was too humble to do that, but he loved to laugh, and to be laughed at. Jeff was a very caring person and had the most sensitive heart that I think I have ever seen. Make no mistake about it, he was sensitive and caring, but you didn’t cross him either. You would definitely know if you made it to his bad side, which few in his short life ever did. He loved animals. He loved family and good friends.

He loved Texas and the Texas ranchland. He loved hunting, fishing, the outdoors and most everything that a West TX boy loves. But most of all he loved music. He wanted so badly to find a way to make a living in the music industry. Not just the music industry, but the TX Music industry. He loved and worked with a few different bands and he was very passionate about helping them achieve success. His favorite bands were: The Mike Mancy Band, Cooder Graw, The Charlie Shafter Band, Hayes Carl, Reckless Kelly, and countless others. He befriended all of the Mike Mancy Band, and the guys known as Cooder Graw and they were instantly his family. They all loved Jefe……… and he loved them.

Jeff was taken from us all prematurely on June 24th ,2005 at 12:06am. He passed away from internal injuries that he sustained in a jet skiing accident on Lake Whitney near Waco, TX. He had said all of his goodbyes and I guess that is were we find our peace. He left us all here, but not before leaving his mark. If you knew him, you know exactly what I am talking about. Jefe was not just my little brother. He was a brother to us all.

Todd Mankin & El Guapo is a band that was formed to honor Jefe and all of the wonderful memories that we all have of him. If you read this, chances are you played a part in his short life. My family and I thank you for being his friend!! -Todd Mankin