Chris Byrnes was my doctoral advisor (together with Alberto Isidori) at Washington University from 2000 to 2003. During those three years he was an endless source of inspiration. His broad mathematical background gave me the chance to be exposed to constantly new research areas. His enthusiastic attitude gave me much motivation, and his patience helped me to enjoy my doctoral work. In addition, he was very generous supporting my participation to valuable research programs and conferences.  Among other things, his untimely death represents the loss of a dedicated, caring, and amusing doctoral advisor.