Theodore Jones, 17, of Trem Afon, Mynydd Isa – known as Theo to friends and work colleagues – was training to be a hairdresser at Andrew Clifford in Mold and worked his last shift on Saturday.
He had worked at the salon for the last eight months and colleagues said he was loved by everyone there and they described him as the most "fantastic person".
Owner Andrew White said: "He was a real character. He was the most fantastic person and he will be sadly missed. He had such potential – he was going to be a great hairdresser."
He said staff were still trying to come to terms with what had happened.
He added: "It's difficult at the moment and all the staff are trying to keep it together. He worked between the three salons and it has affected all of us. It's tragic – a waste of a life.
"We were having a laugh and a joke on Saturday and he didn't seem to have a care in the world. None of us could see this happening."
His friend and colleague, Grace Jordan, 17, also a trainee at the salon said: "He was just a great guy and he was a joy to work with. He could always cheer you up and he could always have a laugh. That's why it's such a big shock. He was really loved here."
His former school, Ysgol Maes Garmon, today paid tribute to him and said counselling sessions are being held for pupils.
A statement issued on behalf of the school said: "The school community of Ysgol Maes Garmon, wish to express our deepest and sincerest sympathy with the family of Theo Jones.
"The staff and pupils were shocked to hear the news, and his closest friends are very upset. Theo was a pupil at the school throughout his secondary school years, leaving in July last year.
"He was a popular pupil with a wide circle of friends. Although Theo had left school, he still had many friends in the school's sixth form.
"He will be greatly missed. The school is already working with senior pupils who were Theo's friends and peers.
"Through the support of the Local Education Authority's welfare officers, and the staff of the school, pupils are being offered counselling sessions to support them through this difficult period. Our thoughts and prayers are very much with Theo's family at this time."
An inquest into the teenager's death has been opened and adjourned.
His death is not being treated as suspicious.
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