Lucas Fowler was in love, travelling the world and making the most of life before he was brutally murdered alongside his American girlfriend in Canada.
His father - NSW Police chief inspector Stephen Fowler - told a memorial service for the 23-year-old in Sydney on Friday that his son lived a life many envied.
"He didn't just dream of travelling, he worked and saved and made it happen," Insp Fowler told the hundreds gathered at Turramurra Uniting Church.
Friends, family and senior police arrive for the memorial service for Lucas Fowler. Source: AAP
Insp Fowler said Lucas was the youngest of four children, behind siblings Jacob, Isaac and Savannah.
"Lucas, with his beautiful blonde curls and big smile was doted on by all," he said.
"Lucas lived a life that many of us envied. He didn’t just dream of travelling, he worked and saved and made it happen.
"He lived off the smell of an oily rag to get to places we’ve never heard of, and along the way forged many friendships."
Friends and family arrive for the memorial service. Source: AAP
Lucas met his girlfriend Chynna Deese in Croatia two years ago and Insp Fowler said the two were "full of happiness".
They had embarked on a road trip around Canada before their van broke down and they were found dead on a British Columbia highway on 15 July.
"We are so happy that Lucas and Chynna found each other and had such a great time travelling together, meeting new friends and just milking every last drop of fun out of life," Insp Fowler said.
"They laughed and loved, and touched the hearts of everyone they met.
Memorial service for Lucas Fowler at Turramurra Uniting Church in Sydney. Source: AAP
"Lucas leaves us with so many beautiful memories. He and Chynna live on in our hearts. Lucas, thank you for being a part of our lives. We love you."
NSW Police Minister David Elliott and Insp Fowler's police colleagues are among the hundreds gathered at the church to pay their respects.
About 10 of Lucas' closest friends arrived dressed in ‘flannies’ because their friend was always wearing a flannelette shirt
"He was welcoming, kind and genuine," one friend said. "He also taught me to speak up, he was fearless. He would call you out if you did something wrong and help you out if you needed it."
Another friend said Lucas "was the type of person who would do anything for you and never want a word of thanks in return".
"Right until the end that man was free, living life just how he wanted. Enjoying the ride.
"The willingness he had to listen, how he always had random bottle caps facts. We had a lifetime of good times, and as always we couldn’t keep up with you and you’ve taken this final adventure without us."
One of Lucas' closest friends, Cody, was too emotional to speak at the service and so his mum spoke for him.
"He was eager to get out an see the world. He was always calm and level - headed," Cody's mum said.
"We travelled for two years and we were together for most of the time.
"We shared so many stories together, some unbelievable and some just straight insane and some that just make me laugh every time."
The family has requested donations be made to a charity in lieu of flowers.
Ms Deese, 24, was farewelled by loved ones at a service at New City Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, a few days ago.
- with additional reporting from AAP
