RIP Lou Ekus

[RobupstateNY]

Very sad news
RIP LOU

 

[brian222]

I met Lou once at NY Reefapalooza 2 years ago, he was very nice to talk to and so passionate about sharing knowledge of the hobby. R.I.P reef legend

 

[rhitee93]

Shocked :(

He jumped on in a few of my early/noob posts to help answer questions. Seemed like a nice guy.

 

[vetteguy53081]

This is very heartbreaking
I’ve known Lou over 25 years and since my days of pet store ownership and have seen him annually and a true industry value

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Sadly added the RIP Badge the @Lou Ekus account.

For those that want to see all of his postings please click here.

 

[Roli's Reef Ranch]

Didn't know him personally, but he responded to some chemistry issues and actually forwarded them on to Dr. Balling himself. He was the kind of guy who went above and beyond for us. RIP, Lou.

 

[BZOFIQ]

That's terrible; always enjoyed talking to him.

RIP Lou.

 

[wickedxreef]

Sadly added the RIP Badge the @Lou Ekus account.

For those that want to see all of his postings please click here.

This is a wonderful tribute to Lou. He will be greatly missed, and his passing is a huge loss for the hobby.

 

[Troylee]

He’s one the handful of guys who worked for a business but always put reefing first and wasn’t trying to sell you something.. I’ll dearly miss him!

 

[shakemandril]

Having only been in the hobby for 7-8 months, I binge watched many of Lou’s videos. I am thankful that he took the time to share in his passion and saddened that one of the greats has passed into the next realm. Thank you Lou, for sharing the knowledge. May you rest in peace!

 

[Dr B]

Not sure if I missed this earlier but just learned Lou has passed away.

Rest in peace Lou! You taught me many great things and had a way to boil it down to help me understand.

You will be missed by us all

Lou treated me so well at Macna, as he not only took the time to explain products but confidently gave me a bunch of samples to try out. I think of him whenever I use Tropic Marin items. So sad to hear this news.

 

[mmorrison55]

Very touching tribute by Thomas @BRS.

 

[BrianTMUSA]

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lou Ekus CEO of Tropic Marin USA, who passed away on September 27, 2025.
Lou led Tropic Marin USA with vision, integrity, and unwavering dedication for 28 years. Under Lous leadership, the company grew to be a household name within this industry. Lou was not only a leader but also a mentor, a friend, and a passionate advocate for marine life and sustainability. Lous knowledge and passion for this hobby was well known as he was always eager to share his knowledge to help industry experts and hobbyists alike.
Those who knew Lou will remember his warmth, curiosity, tireless commitment to excellence and the ability to explain aquarium chemistry in the simplest way possible so everyone could understand.
Even with his strength and for waning, he was still able to set the course for the future of Tropic Marin USA and transfer responsibility to younger shoulders. Lou hand-picked Brian and spent countless hours working together to ensure Tropic Marin USA would be cared for in the same way with love and respect for the industry and the brand.
Lou leaves behind a remarkable legacy, and we are committed to honoring that by continuing the mission and values he instilled in the organization.
We ask for your thoughts and prayers for his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work. Details about memorial services and how you can pay your respects will be shared in the coming days.
With deepest sympathy,
From Eckart, Thomas, Marcus and the whole Tropic Marin Team

 

[BrianTMUSA]

Lou was a great man and an inspiration to us all. His kind heart was felt by many. I had the privilege to work with him over the past few years much very closely when he came to me to help transition the company when he knew his battle was getting rough. All I can say is that man cared for each and every one of us in this industry from customers to hobbyist and no matter what walk of life you come from. I am proud to be able to call him a friend and surely will miss him.

 

[Fishy888]

I never got to meet him but he was a brilliant man nonetheless. It’s a big loss for all of us. R.I.P. Lou.

 

[Gumbies R Us]

So sad to hear about this....

 

[Maximitsurugi]

Who cares if one more light goes out Lou….well we do. Sleep in peace.

 

[federeef75]

Thank’s Lou

 

[Evil1]

Test in

 

[Dburr1014]

Dang, did not know.
I have spoke with him face to face a few times. Always humble, always will to take the time to explain things.

RIP, LOU!