Luis P. Alvarez

Luis P. "Big Lou" Alvarez, 58, of Hamilton, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. Born and raised in Trenton, he remained a proud lifelong resident of the area. A standout athlete, he was an all-star on the Trenton High School football team through 1983, remembered not just for his strength on the field, but for his larger-than-life presence and unwavering kindness.
Big Lou was a big man with an even bigger heart. Known for his trademark grin and a laugh that could light up the darkest room, he had a way of making everyone feel seen and special the moment he walked through the door. His warmth was genuine, and his presence unforgettable.
Luis began his career in healthcare, where he compassionately cared for geriatric patients, embodying empathy and respect. Later, after earning his commercial driver's license, he transitioned into logistics, working with several local companies before joining the Department of the Treasury for the State of New Jersey. There he helped supply goods to state-operated facilities, proudly serving the community through 2024.
An open road and two wheels were his happy place. A passionate rider and dedicated member of the "9Xboyz" motorcycle group, Lou found joy and brotherhood on winding backroads. He thrived in the camaraderie of weekend rides, community events, and the group's cherished annual back-pack drive. A fiercely loyal Dallas Cowboys fan, he stuck with his team through every season, and his impressive collection of memorabilia was a testament to his enduring spirit and devotion.
While he wore many hats throughout his incredible life, none brought him more pride than those of husband, father, papi and abuelo. Family was the heartbeat of Lou's world. Whether coaching from the sidelines or cheering loudly in the stands, he was always there, traveling near and far to support his children in their athletic endeavors. He cherished Sunday card games with family, peaceful getaways to the Jersey Shore and the Pocono Mountains, and quiet afternoons spent fishing or playing pool. He was a fierce competitor leading to several championships from 2003 through 2009 as a member of the Greater Trenton English Dart League.
Deeply proud of his Puerto Rican roots, Lou expressed his heritage most passionately through food. Cooking for loved ones was a love language, with every dish he served telling a story, bringing people together and filling both hearts and stomachs. A movie buff and avid video game player, Lou embraced life with joy and encouraged everyone around him to celebrate the little things right alongside him.
Though he has left this world, Big Lou's legacy lives on through the laughter he sparked, the love he gave so freely, and the countless lives he touched.
He was predeceased by his father Pablo, mother Violet Santos, and beloved son Hector. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Sheila (McCabe), his cherished children Ashley and Luis Jr. (Joy Rizzo), and his adored grandchildren Gianna, Aleka, and Avery. He is also survived by his cousin and lifelong best friend Wenceslao "Jr/Monkey" Alvarez, his loving "Titis" and uncles Margarita and Tony Gandulla and Esther and Felix Hernandez, his sister Isabelle, brothers Tommy, Juan "John-John," and Udel Ramirez, and many loving nieces and nephews, other relatives and dear friends.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation was private.
A celebration of Lou's life will be held this fall with a time to gather, share stories, and honor a man who gave so much of himself to others.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in memory of John David Ryan to FARA at .
Cremation is private and under the direction of the Buklad-Merlino Memorial Homes, Hamilton, NJ.
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