i just want to say what a privilege it has been to know Amer.  He and I spoke often at the end of the day, just to say goodbye when leaving the office, or to check up on how the work was going.  He always had time, was incredibly kind, and always made you feel he was genuinely interested in you.  I was struck by the care and interest with which he approached everything, from the projects he worked on, mentoring he was involved in, and his friendships. He was just a lovely man.  My thoughts and condolences to his family and friends at this very difficult time.