.065 Louis Hills

On a rainy day like today, Louis is the person who can pick up your spirits. He’s filled with and leads his life with such vibrant and genuine positive energy, making him a true hoot to be around. We met almost 3 years ago through our soccer league and became friends almost instantly. I was quickly drawn to his exuberant self, along with his wonderful smile and joyful personality. I remember thinking how lucky I was to find a friend like him, especially with how hard it can be to make friends as we get older, and I still consider myself lucky today.

On the soccer field, Louis is tenacious and the definition of fun to play with. I genuinely feel like a kid again when he’s on my team; we have a strange connection on the field that has always allowed for wonderful, magical moments, and of course, wins. He’s a true team player, always balancing his competitive nature with his innate compassion toward anyone he’s up against. Off the field, Louis is just as fun, primarily because of the respect, intelligence and kindness that’s built into his DNA. He and I have shared countless memories out on the town in Manhattan, bouncing from one place to another, dancing and hollering the entire way. He looks out for you, wants you to have a great time, and genuinely cares about your conversations, no matter how serious or silly. He’s wicked smart and so incredibly talented, which clearly is why he continues to kick ass at work and beyond. Louis is simply a good human being, caring and dedicated to the friends and family in his life, never wavering to offer support, reach out, or chat.

Louis, you make the world a better place just by being here. Thank you for always lifting my spirits when I need it and for never failing to make me laugh. Thank you for all of past adventures, from parking lots to Chicago, and for all the ones wee bound to have in the future. Thank you for being the kind, humble and sweet, sweet man that you are. Thank you for reminding me that it is possible to find friends post-college, and not only that, but truly good friends who you connect deeply with. Thank you for inspiring so, so many of us, including myself, but always challenging yourself to do better and to be better. Your work ethic in your personal life, actual career, and even at the gym is inspiring and reminds me to keep pushing myself in ways that I can. Thank you for being all that you are, Louis.

-BD