Can you really be friends?

I dated a guy I fell in love with. We only kissed. A little over a month, he didn't want to let the relationship move forward physically (we no longer kissed or touched) but he let it move forward in most other aspects. I care for him immensley and I feel an unconditional bond with him; I always want to be there for him in his life as a positive influence or to help him with anything he needs. At the same time, I have to get over looking at him romantically, and get over the heartbreak and loss. So is it possible to be friends with him? And if he has feelings for me but isn't ready for a relationship but cares about me, will he be able to truelly be friends with me...?