It is very difficult to be here today to talk about Jules. It is hard because he was more than a Mentor to me, in so many different ways. I came to Argonne in September of 2004 after I received my PhD. The idea was to spend a few months here running some experiments. Given the long collaboration between my supervisor and Jules I knew I would be in good hands, but Jules really exceeded all expectations. He and Anja welcomed me into their house and treated me like part of their family. He gave me the keys to their house, trained his ear to understand my broken English and helped me to get in touch with a completely new life. In fact, he did such a great job that the few months turned into many years. That was Jules, he did it before with other post-docs from my group in Seville, and many other students as well. He was just that generous. Obviously, this was just the beginning of a very special relationship.

In no time he was my supervisor, my teacher, a close friend and like a father to me. He provided help and advice whenever it was asked, and sometimes when it wasn’t. He was right beside my sisters to be sure I was choosing the right husband, and - with Jules' help - they were really thorough in this task. He even flew to Spain to participate in my wedding. As anyone who knew Jules, he was there any time you needed his help or advice. There are so many good things I could say about him, he was truly an exceptional person, like no other.

We all will miss you Jules, tremendously.

Thank you for being a part of our lives.

You will always have a special place in our hearts.