The community in Los Angeles is grappling with the unexpected death of beloved ethical butcher Jered Standing, 44, who took his own life last week.
Former partners and close friends, including his ex-girlfriend Katie Sobelman and writer friend Stephanie Hughes, are sharing their grief and memories of the compassionate man behind the tough exterior.
From Vegetarian Bookstore Worker to Ethical Butcher Icon
In an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com, Sobelman reveals the lesser-known facets of Standing’s life.
Originally a vegetarian bookstore worker, he met Sobelman in 2012 and embarked on a journey that transformed him into a locally famous Hancock Park butcher.
His dedication to ethical meat practices and raising high-quality cattle earned him recognition and a significant role in LA’s farm-to-table meat scene.
Struggles and Demons: Jered Standing’s Unseen Battles
Despite his success, Standing battled personal demons, often locking away emotions and uncomfortable thoughts in what Sobelman referred to as ‘the little black box’ in his mind.
The death of his father in 2005 left a profound impact, and although he rarely opened up about his struggles, Sobelman paints a picture of a man secretly grappling with sadness and anger.
A Tender Side: Nerdy Passions and Unexpected Humor
Sobelman, who shared a one-bedroom apartment with Standing, reminisces about his tender and humorous side.
Describing him as secretly nerdy with a love for Lord of the Rings and the ability to speak Elvish, Sobelman highlights the unexpected charm that made him endearing.
Despite the tough exterior portrayed in photos, Standing was known for making people laugh with his Daniel Day-Lewis impressions and quoting movie monologues.
Entrepreneurial Drive and Charisma: Standing’s Impact on Others
Launching his own butcher shop in LA, Standing’s entrepreneurial spirit was relentless.
Sobelman acknowledges the challenges they faced during their relationship but admires his turnaround and the infectious passion he brought to his craft.
His ability to turn something seemingly ambiguous into a cause worth caring about left a lasting impression on those around him.
A Life Remembered: Friends Urge Mental Health Awareness
As the community mourns Standing’s tragic end, friends Sobelman, Hughes, and Karen Palmer emphasize the importance of reaching out for mental health support.
They encourage friends to check on one another and recognize the signs of those who might be struggling. The loss of Jered Standing serves as a reminder of the complexities individuals face behind their public personas.
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