The Hills star Heidi Montag made a tearful speech at her stepbrother’s memorial service on Wednesday, describing the tragic 24 year old as "an amazingly patriotic person".

The reality TV star, accompanied by her boyfriend Spencer Pratt, made her emotional tribute to Eric O’Hara at the service in her hometown of Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

O’Hara died last week after falling from the roof of a hotel while clearing snow.

Montag told the gathered mourners, "I didn’t write anything down today, just couldn’t. Eric was the best brother I could ask for.

"He was happy, strong and an amazingly patriotic person. I’ll never forget how he could make me smile. I will remember all the times we had together and cherish all the memories, the good ones and the bad ones.

"Eric was a true hero. I love him and I will miss him."