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Ariel Jacobs Obituary
Watch the salesman work the room. His banter is interrupted because his cellphone rings incessantly, but every comer's gaze is met. The people in this room feel important; they feel at ease. They like this guy. This skill has made him a success.
The room this time is called Dave & Buster's. Today is Saturday and business is not at hand, but the salesman's skills are at work. He sips his Grey Goose martini as the partygoers fete him with gifts for his 30th birthday. He slowly unwraps each offering. "He loved his friends and family and loved entertaining them and making people more comfortable," said his wife, Jenna.
She gave birth to the salesman's son, Gabriel, on Sept. 17. That was nine days after the party, one day after the salesman's birthday and six days after his death. It was six days before their first wedding anniversary.
Ariel Louis Jacobs, known to friends as R- E and to family members as Airy, used his charm to climb from Radio Shack clerk to chief of United States operations for a multinational company, Caplin Systems, in the space of a decade.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Tracey Cohen
July 29, 2024
Just discovered through Ancestry, that Ariel and I, are 3rd cousins, and started to read up about his life. May he forever rest in peace and watch over Gabriel and Jenna
David Bailey
September 12, 2021
20 yrs ago, I only met you once. We played Ping Pong, and you beat me so good. David
M
September 11, 2021
I had the privilege of spending quite a bit of time with Ari. He made an impact. He was always the smartest person in the room. He had the best sense of humor in the room. Everyone wanted to be his friend. He was kind. He was generous. He had great taste in music! I can remember him playing his best of The Police cd and loving it. On this day I remember what an exceptional person he was. I admired him after I got to know him, and still do. People are still thinking of you, dude, and will continue to do so until our time comes.
.R K
September 11, 2019
The one comfort I have in that disaster 18 years ago was that I helped recover your husband on that heap of evil . And I hope that you Found some comfort in putting him to rest .
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July 10, 2019
Sending my sincerest thoughts and prayers to Ariels entire family.
Mark McLeroy
September 11, 2017
16 years later, and thoughts of you weigh heavy on my mind. Rest in piece my friend.
David Bailey
September 11, 2016
Hello Ari, On this 15yr Anniversary of 9/11, I am thinking of you. I only met you once but I remember what a Super Guy you are and always will be. David
Mark McLeroy
September 11, 2016
Thinking of you 15 years later my friend.
Davide Calise
September 10, 2015
Ari went to SUNY Oneonta and I had the pleasure to know him between 1990-1991. He lived in the same dorm as me and we were friends. Every year I remember and pray for him on Sept 11. He was truly a gentleman and is truly missed.
Mark McLeroy
September 11, 2014
Thinking of you my friend.
Dan Henderson
September 11, 2014
I miss your wit and humor brother, RIP.
With all our respect
Stein & Kjersti Westby
October 7, 2013
Steven Santiago
September 11, 2013
As always on Sept. 11th I pay my respect to a man I became friends with. Today is another sad day remembering the tragedy that took a good man, a husband, a dad and a friend. Life still has an empty gap without him.
Anna
September 12, 2012
Never to be forgotton. 11 years on and the world still remembers.
September 11, 2012
I still think of you. all these years later. what a kind soul you were. and how you always made me laugh.your sweet smile. how you made me laugh. you are not forgotten.
Denny Heatherly
February 10, 2012
11 years later and I still think of you more than you know. You hired me to run the Chicago office and said "just do your thing and don't screw it up." You sat in my offfice one day in August 2001 and bragged about how lucky you were in life to have it all along with a knockout wife and a baby on the way. You were able to see the things that a lot take for granted. I have always lived my life as though today could be my last. We talked about that a little bit and we joked about it. You headed off to New York shortly after that. I still try to live my life like that and you remind me why every day. You left us all way too early and you missed out on what was to be. I see you as looking down on us with that wry smile and that stinky cigar which you always lit up when it was time to enjoy all that was good. Peace to you my friend. I am better for knowing you. Your son would have been very proud and both he and your wife are always in my prayers. Good memories make it easier to move on and you were full of them. A Martini for you!
Mark McLeroy
September 11, 2011
It was my privilege growing up with you and calling you my friend. My toughts are with you and your family today.
Angelique Matos
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you and feeling honored for having known you.
Tonya Aarts-Orednick
September 10, 2011
Ari, It's been 10 years since we all lost you. All of us. My son Matthew and I are running the Chicago half marathon in your honor tomorrow. Matthew and Dan are my step sons and they know all about you. I'm still in that crazy stupid industry I wanted to get out of... 10 years later I can still hear you calling on the phone saying AARTS! get off the phone! i'm more important than anyone you are talking to". And you were. God Bless..
Michael Iezzi
September 16, 2009
Ariel,
Happy Birthday in Heaven.
Birthdays In Heaven
Are there birthdays in Heaven?
Does the angel blow his horn?
Announcing to everybody
That this is the day you were born?
Can the stars be your balloons
And angel food your cake?
Presents wrapped in moonbeams
All the angels helped to make.
Birthdays meant so much to you
They were always a big deal
Birthday presents, lots of friends
And perhaps a special meal.
So we'll whisper a little prayer today
Asking everyone up above
To sing you a Happy Birthday song
And give you all our love.
~ Author unknown~
David Bailey
September 1, 2009
Hello Ariel, I played Ping Pong with you once and you beat me good. But I did not mind losing to such a nice guy. When I think of 9-11, I always remember you. You are still in the Universe with us all. David J. Bailey
Lisa Johnson
August 20, 2009
I am a college student in St. Louis Mo. I'm doing a class project for my homeland security class. Our assignment is to pick a 9-11-01 victim and write a story about them. Viewing all of the thousands of different victims brought tears to my eyes. It really saddens me to know that this stuff goes on in our world. I chose Ariel for my project. I spent 3 hours just reading and re-reading the info I was able to find about him and his wife and child. Jenna and Gabriel, my heart goes out to u both. I pray that God somehow gives u both strength to get through each day. It sounds like Ariel was an amazing man. I am so sorry for your loss. It's truly a blessing to be able to know someone who has the ability to make anyone laugh. I just hope I am able to do Ariel justice when putting my project together.
Safely Home
Michael Iezzi
September 16, 2008
Ariel,
Happy Birthday !!! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Michael iezzi
September 17, 2007
Ariel,
Happy Belated Birthday in Heaven. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Doug Abraham
September 16, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Victoria Vaccaro
September 11, 2007
Ari-
Thinking of you today, I found the reference letter that you wrote for me in some papers the other day. I would never use it but I can't bear to throw it away...
Thinking about you, Jenna, and Gabi.- love Vikki
Angelique Matos
September 11, 2007
Dear Ari,
It is an honor to say that I knew you when we were just children. Whether it was a massive neighborhood game of tag or managing the local video store, you showed even then, the humanity, humor and responsibility that brought you so much love. You were the only kid my mother trusted in the neighb and I cherish my birthday party pictures she took of you. Please know that I believe you live on in your child and in the hearts of all you touched.
Love Angelique Matos
Amy Conciatori Nash
September 11, 2007
Remembering you and thinking of your family...Love, Am
P Tabbernor
November 15, 2006
In memory....
Kristine
November 6, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Julia Bond
September 12, 2006
I read about Ari and sweet Gabi in the Boulder paper yesterday. Happy Birthday to both of you. I can't believe Gabi is 5!!! I am so glad to hear how much he is like his father. That is such a gift.
Nina
September 11, 2006
Ar,
I was just smiling to myself thinking of all of the times together. I miss how you would make us all laugh. I am wearing my, "I helped Ari Jacobs get over the Hill," t-shirt from your surprise 30th party. It somehow makes me feel closer.
You, Jenna and Gabi are in my thoughts.
Amy
September 11, 2006
Thinking of you, Jenna and Gabi today. Miss you friend.
September 11, 2005
I did not know Ari but read about him in the People magazine article and saw his lovely wife Jenna and baby boy Gabriel on TV. Jenna's grief touched my heart and I put her name and Gabriel's in my prayer journal. With the fourth anniversary you are
in my thoughts. May God comfort and
guide you day by day. Donna
Victoria Vaccaro
September 16, 2004
Ari-
Thinking of you,Jenna, and Gabi.
Happy Birthday!
Love,
Vikki
Michael Fokas
September 15, 2004
Ari and I were good friends our first year at Science. We met in gym class and formed part of an enthusiastic 5 player pick up basketball team. We played, laughed, and smiled every day that year. It was special. Though I haven't seen Ari since then, what I remember most about him is that friendly, genuine smile. May time heal all grief.
Amy
September 11, 2004
Ari - Thinking of you, Jenna and Gabi today, as always.
Love, Am
Christopher Cassidy
September 11, 2004
I first met Ari when I began my training at Dean Witter in January of 1996. During my three month study period Ari stopped in to see me and asked me if I needed any help with learning about options. It was not a common thing for brokers to go out of their way to help a "trainee". But Ari was not common.
Later on I sat right behind Ari in the "bullpen" and often heard him on the phone with his clients and admired his easy, winning way with people. I often played cards with Ari in the breakroom to take a break from the phones.
We all knew Ari was a good man and we miss him.
Jenna, on this anniversary of that day of loss, may it be a comfort to you and yours that Ari is so fondly and warmly remembered by those who knew him.
God bless you and your family.
Christopher Cassidy
Wachovia Securites
Albany, NY
David Reed
September 9, 2004
RE
I am here in my room, thinking about you. I remember all the good times that we had up in Albany NY. You were the first Pearson who taught me DragonDictate I appreciate that, matter-of-fact I in using the software now. For my college educations I chose to attend Manhattan College in Riverdale NY, I was helping that way to catch up on old times. In December 2001 I was reading people magazine's and I saw the article about you. I was happy to know that you were a big success, and head and wonderful wife and baby boy. I think you are you for your friendship, and taking the time to teach me DragonDictate. I do miss going to the movies though and hanging out with you. I do believe that you are watching over your friends and family. In one of the best teachers and friend aperson can ask for.
John Kosse
March 23, 2004
I never knew Ari, but it seems to me that he was quite an amazing person. I feel like I knew him just by reading the warm thoughts of everyone that has posted messages in this guestbook. With a smile and a tear, I was overwhelmed by the life of someone I had never met. I want to send out my thoughts and prayers to Jenna and Gabriel as they continue down life's path. He lives in both of you.......
You may not remember me Jenna, but my father is your father's cousin (Gary Kosse). Sometimes I think back to our childhood and how simple the world seemed. I think of how things have changed and the struggles that we now face as adults. I look at my daughter who just turned 3 and wonder how her view of the world will be as she grows up. I hope that someday the world will be the better place that we all wish it could be, and that the loss that you and others have faced will not be in vain. I have followed your courage from a distance and wish the best in the future! Take Care Jenna.
John
Paul Bornemann
December 27, 2003
I spent 4 years sitting next to Ari in high school during our homeroom. He was a regular person in my life for many years and I was deeply impressed by his post-HS success but simultaneously saddened by his premature demise. I regret not being able to congradulate him on his successful life or tell him how deep down I was always impressed by him, but just a little too shy to say so.
David Wernli
September 29, 2003
Dear Ari,
I was just sent your guestbook by our friend Sandy today and I couldn't help but remeber the several weeks we spent together learning the "Dean Witter Way". I have such great memories of the time we all shared. What a great tribute this site has become. After reading many entries, I'm not at all surprised of how many people you have touched. To Jenna & Gabi, you both are in my thoughts and prayers always.
September 16, 2003
Ari,
Happy birthday.
I hope that wherever Heaven is they got a box of Cohibas in for you today. I hope you shoot under an 80, the Grey Goose is almost frozen and the yellowtail is extra fresh.
Thanks for the good times and the words of advice over the few short months we knew eachother; it remains a privilege and an honour to call you my friend.
Press up that hard eight and know that we all miss you down here.
T
Nina DeCocco
September 16, 2003
Happy Birthday Ar. Thinking about you, Jenna and Gabi today-as always.
Ni
Kathy Aschenbrener
September 16, 2003
Dear Ari,
We should be presenting you with birthday cards and gifts befitting your humor, talent and years on earh. Instead, you keep giving us gifts. For your birthday, I want you to know:
I truly see you beaming adoringly at your son. Isn't he the best? Do you hear him singing his horse song? Did you teach it to him somehow? He is the precious embodiment of your life, he reminds us to smile, just as you taught him. Thank you.
I miss you for Jenna and Gabby and your Mom and Dad and brother and sister and cousins and nieces and nephews and aunts and uncles and friends. - all those that in your too-short life, you touched by virtue of the strength of character and love that is, still, Ari Jacobs. And, as unselfish as you are, I, selfishly, miss you for me.
I believe you know how Jenna cherishes you and holds you near and I thank you again and again for loving her.
It is my honor to have you in my family now and forever, we are blssed with your life and memories. We will see each again because there is a river in Judea and we will meet by the rivershore.
Happy Birthday! Love, Kathy
Victoria Vaccaro
September 16, 2003
I remember the many special moments that you and Jenna shared with us. I remember the email about your proposal, I remember Clementine's and the wonderful announcement of Gabi's pending arrival and I remember your love of your family and friends. I remember that one day you helped out Susan Sarandon and gave her twenty buck's, and got your picture in Allure magazine, you lucky dog! I remember you and Nin's taking my out for a Birthday Toast, even though I didn't want to go, but you said " Hey, it's your birthday, you have to toast a drink on your birthday!" So my friend,tonight, I toast to you.
Happy Birthday Ari!
May your energy and spirit continue to inspire.
Love,
Vikki
Amy Conciatori Nash
September 16, 2003
Ari! Happy Birthday! The FS gang will clink glasses to you today, and will remember us all together laughing at Clementine's or JP Laughlin's. We still celebrate your life.
Love to Jenna and Gabi,
Amy
Jenna Jacobs
September 16, 2003
Happy birthday again, my sweetheart. This is your second birthday since you died. Gabriel and I will celebrate with you because we know you are with us still. I know you are so proud of your little boy, even though I can't see the expression on your face. And, I know you'll celebrate his 2nd birthday with us tomorrow, too. I can't believe our son is turning 2 without you. I can't believe I'm celebrating your 32nd birthday even though you never made it out of your 20s. I miss you more than I can say. I love you. I love you. I love you.
your wife, your "nunnies," your Jenna
Tonya Aarts
September 11, 2003
Still not a day goes by where I don't think of my friend Ari and his family.
I know he's watching over us. I can't see it, but I can feel it.
My best to Jenna and Gabriel and Ari's entire family.
Just knowing that he's watching over all of us- well...that makes life worthwhile.
All my love.
Tonya
Tracy Nation
September 11, 2003
To Ariel's extended family,
I was not fortunate enough to meet Ariel but, I've heard how wonderful his was from none other than his brother, Dan. My heart was deeply touched.
My prayers extend to the family on this date, the second anniversary.
Tracy Nation, San Diego, CA
A fellow mother of a 2 year old boy
September 3, 2003
Dear Mrs. Jacobs and sweet son Gabriel,
I just came across an old People magazine with all the children born after their fathers died on 9/11. Sept. must be an extremely difficult time for you (probably everyday is). There are just so many celebations you were cheated out of and I pray you and your family survive through them. I hope your son will always know how much his father loved him and hope he grows up to be just like his dad. It sounds like he was a wonderful person. God bless your family always. Happy Birthday to your son.
Jessica Mendez
June 27, 2003
Dear Jenna,
Hello! I hope you are doing well. You dont know me but I wanted to express my heartfelt sympathy. I am really sorry about the loss of your husband. Everything will be alright keep your head up! If you ever need to talk I will be here to listen. Take Care of yourself and remember Ari is watching over you.
Christian Steiner
February 17, 2003
I will never forget the beautiful moments I had with Ari in Riverdale growing up. My childhood friendship with Ari will always be a very important part of my life. Time may have gone by but you are far from forgotten.
Sara
February 17, 2003
It's been a month since i first heard Ari's name from one of his closest friends and i think of him every day. I dream almost nightly of a man i never knew, one that had such a profound effect on the life of every person who met him. How could someone have such an incredible impact on someone they never knew? I can't answer that. Perhaps it's a testament to what an amazing person Ari was. I wish i could have known him, and i'd give anything to bring him back to Jenna and Gabi.
Ari, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers every day. The memory of you is alive in your beautiful son, and the fond memories shared with smiles and laughter by those who love you.
Jonathan Weaver
January 15, 2003
As I begin a new year in my own life, I find myself reflecting on the boundless joy that so visibly suffused Ari's. His enthusiasm for the ordinary was itself extraordinary; of all the gifts his memory conveys, it is the one I treasure most.
Angel Campano
October 28, 2002
My heart goes out to your family and friends. Our short meeting was a day to never forget, when we lined up on different sides of the field (paintball), you were the trooper dressed in your bright red shirt and antlers. May god take you in his arms forever.
Jenna Jacobs
September 16, 2002
Happy birthday, my love! Gabriel and I made cupcakes for you today, not knowing how else to celebrate what should have been your 31st birthday. I love you always.
kisses,
your wife, Jenna
Andrew Gershman
September 14, 2002
I never knew Ariel but everything I have read and seen on tv about him seem wonderful. My wife and I are expecting our second child in December and I wanted to pay tribute to Ariel by naming my son Ariel Jacob Gershman. I hope this is ok with his wife, but when I heard his name for the first time I just knew it was right.
Tonya Aarts
September 12, 2002
Dear Ari,
It's been a year since you've been taken away from all of us. And I mean, the world. I know that so many in this country are suffering right now and are in pain for the loss of loved ones, I can't help but wonder if people are feeling the loss that we're all feeling-
I say it over and over and over again. I was and still am to this day the LUCKIEST person alive to have known you and to have you in my life. You have taught me so much and at the end of the day that equated in being a better human being.
You are a true humanitarian. One of the greats. A true man...loving husband, loyal friend, amazing sales professional, and all around our world is a little lost without that great big smile of yours.
But your legacy will live on in your son. And your wife is a true hero and rock and inspiration. We all gain strength from watching Jenna go on.
So...we miss you Ari. I miss our wacky phone calls about business, and life. Our "shtick"...our bantering back and forth..that I could swear that people would think we arguing...but really we were just playing around and debating life's great issues. I miss how you were there for me to pick me off the ground and when few people believed in me.
You shared that great big heart of yours with so many.
I thank you for that.
I'll see you again some day. In the meantime...keep watch over us.
We still need you in our lives over here.
All my love to you... and cheers to your life and legacy...
And Jenna and Gabriel, you are forever in my thoughts. You make us all proud.
David McDaniel
September 11, 2002
In April, 2002, my wife (Julianne) and I traveled to Boston so I could run in the marathon. We stayed in a bed and breakfest owned by Ari's sister - Claudia Jacobs. The day before the race, Claudia told us about Ari and the impact on her life. Then right before the race, I told her I would run in Ari's memory. During the race I thought of Ari and the other victims, survivors and heros of 9/11. It made the race even more special to me.
While I never met Ari, I will always remember him from that experience. He and the other victims live on through us in our lifes as we continue to make the world a better place. Only when mankind can live together in true harmony and care for another will we achieve God's will.
God bless America and the World we live in!
-David
Betty Donnerson-Rembert
September 11, 2002
Today, 9-11-02, I made a vow to remember Ariel as a part of the connectednss we all experienced and shared in this tragedy that befell our country. Ironically, after receiving his name from the memorial service held at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, I turned on my minature TV and lo and behold, there was a story being shown about his wife and son. I truly plan to follow through with this vow and to remember Ariel and to pray for his family. God Bless
Yadira Batres
September 11, 2002
Ariel Louis Jacobs (29),
Hello, you've never meet me before or even seen my face. Im just letting you know how I came upon your name.
Today, Sept. 11,02, at our school, we were given a name of a person who was lost in the 9/11 tragedy and I received your name. I went online to see if I could find any information about you, and i did. Im so sorry for what happened. I look at your picture and it says a thousands words. I can't believe such a terrible thing happened to a loved husband, father, friend, and son.
It's funny how just reading about you makes me feel that I've known you for awhile. I also wanted to say sorry to your family, it must be really hard. Im sorry, again! Its just so sad. The tears won't stop streaming down my face.
Again, Im sorry.... I wish this never happened! Hopefully we will meet some day!
Sincerely,
Yadira B. (17)
Ashley Tisius
September 11, 2002
I wanted to say my prayers are with all the family members of the victoms aswell as the victoms. God Bless
Adam Jacobs
September 11, 2002
It has been one year and I find no solace in time. You touched many lives. My pride in your accomplishments, passion and love for life is without limit.
You chased me around as a boy and I adored you from the first day your parents brought you to our house when you were less than a few weeks old.
You were the finest person I knew and your death so profoundly unfair. I can only hope it serves to motivate those who knew you and others that read this board to do all in their power to teach love and have zero tolerance for those who advocate terrorism.
The world goes on and all I want is you back with us.
-Your Cuz
christiane
September 9, 2002
Liebe Mrs. Jacobs,
ihre Geschichte berührte mein Herz.
Unfassbar wie sinnlos !
Ich bete für Sie und Gabriel und
wünsche Euch von ganzem Herzen
Kraft und alles Liebe ...
Sarah Stefanak
September 9, 2002
I sit at my desk and still can not understand how and why you are not here. Ari was unlike anyone I had ever met. From the moment he sauntered into FutureSource, we were friends. And I knew he was going to go all the way, not only in business but in life. His vocabulary was as colorful as the vests he would wear to work-he was quite the fashion plate. He spoke and wrote with passion and eloquence. He could sell ANYTHING!! And yet he was not the "sell ice to eskimos" type. But for all his talents and accomplishments, nothing made him more proud and happy than the love of his life, Jenna. And then of course, the anticipation of their first born, Gabriel Benjamin. He was tripping the light fantastic, as he so deserved. Though we only spoke one or twice a month, I had always felt we had a special friendship. He had been a co-worker, a mentor and a friend. Ari, the world does not shine as bright without you in it. Please know that you are sorely missed and I shall be forever grateful to have known you and call you friend.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Jenna. May your strength and love for Ari and Gabriel guide you through all this.
Kathy Aschenbrener
September 4, 2002
It has been too hard to write anything - there are not enough words, nor are any of them adequate.
I am so proud to have had you as a son-in-law. My heart bursts at the thought of the love you and my daughter had for each other. Despite the miles between us, I was comforted because you were together and she was safe with you.
The last time we spoke was early September when you called to make travel plans for me for the birth of your baby. So like you to take care of others. I remember exactly where I was when we had that conversation. I hold that conversation close.
I have seen you, in my mind, with your son and you are magnificent with him.
Not a day goes by that I don't think about you, that I don't thank you for loving Jenna totally, and without reservation proclaiming that love.
I will feel your presence and your absence always.
man, husband, father, hero, the best ... Peace
Talia Handler-Josefsberg
July 16, 2002
I first met Ari when I was in 6th grade when he was a good friend of my brothers and he used to come over to our house all the time. Over the next few years at he and my brother drifted apart, but Ari and I became colser and had the same circle of friends. We went to the same schools, had the same guidance councelor at Kennedy, and even went to Oneonta together for freshman year. While he as at Albany we lost touch and I had not heard about what sounds like a wonderful life and family he had built for himself since. I got a call shortly after Septmber 11 with news about Ari and it was heartbreaking to hear. It sounds like Ari became a successful businessman (which we always knew he would be, even when he used to work at Radio Shack) as well as an adoring husband. I am truly sorry for your loss Jenna, he was a truly sweet soul. Your strength is truly admariable.
Adam Shapiro
July 1, 2002
"ARI" was part of the Kappock crew we grew up together, camp olympic, Ari was a friend that words cannot explain.
My heart is always with you
Adam
Rob Feld
July 1, 2002
Ariel and i grew up together in the past few years I saw less of Ariel but...always treasured the frendship we had He will always be missed
ROb
Amy
April 17, 2002
Mrs. Jacobs,
I do not know you, but I have often thought about you since I first heard of your story in September and I often check your website to see how your adorable baby has grown. My heart aches for you and your son, who will never know his father, who from everything I've read, was clearly a wonderful and loving person. Please know that there are strangers out there like me who admire your strength and keep you and your son in our thoughts and prayers.
Amy Conciatori Nash
April 9, 2002
The many ways Ari will be missed will be countless. For me, it will be as a mentor who befriended me on my first day at FutureSource. It was the start of life after college for me, and who better to help guide than Ari. Our office was comprised of a special group of people, Ari included. We enjoyed each others company after work, attended each others happy hours with friends, parties, & weddings. It fostered a family atmosphere that Ari was the ring leader of. What more, he had the ability to make you laugh. I mean really laugh. No matter how bad your day/problem/situation seemed, he would find a light and guide you there. After moving on in my job, Ari and Jenna's move to CA, and then my move to Chicago, I enjoyed those brief times when Ari and I would catch up. A true friend, Ari was, who really wanted to hear about your dentist visit if that was all you had going on. Either over dinner, or the phone or e-mail. To hear how Jenna was (who always came first in the update for Ari), the success Ari was having with work, the family he was starting, the house, friends, etc. Friend, you are missed.
Angela Dickinson
April 9, 2002
I met Ari in December of 1997 when I started my job as the receptionist for FutureSource. Ari was a salesman at the time and oh what a salesman he was, I admired his skill. Greater still was his ability to be a friend.
Once, after I left FutureSource, I came back for a vist, like I often did. When I poked my head into Ari's office to say hi (he was the National Sales Manager by then), he invited me in to chat. After asking how my new job was going he promptly asked me if I had a website. I gave him an odd look, it was an odd question, and said no. He then preceded to research possible names for my website, should I ever choose to start one. It may seem like a silly story, but for me it's a great reminder of the person he was, he always made you feel important and more often than not, to him you were.
A few things Ari taught me: that sushi is the best thing to eat when you've been drinking and have to survive the train ride home, how to swish wine to view the legs and see if it's any good and how to make an omelette (you don't use milk).
I will miss him dearly as I know anyone that knew him does.
Jenna and Gabriel my thougts are with you always.
Ariel and Jenna Jacobs' wedding, 9/23/00
Jenna Jacobs
April 8, 2002
First, thank you to everyone who has written a tribute; I am continually amazed by the kindness of friends and strangers, alike.
Ariel was the center of my world, and I lived to make him happy. People often told us that we had an aura around us that glowed with our love. Simply put, we were crazy for each other. I am so lucky to have had five years of what most people never have at all. We left nothing left unsaid -- not one word, not one adoring look, not one touch. My only regret is that we did not have the time to show each other over and over again how in love we were.
But, I am not the only person he was taken from...
Ari, as we called him, left behind a group of friends and admirers that miss him beyond the ability of words to convey the emotion. He was his father's youngest, and mother's only, child. His sister, brother, and other relatives are bereft with his absence. At the age of only 29, he was running a multi-million-dollar company. His rise to corporate stardom was indeed legendary, and the business world has lost one of the greats. Even his dogs have shown signs of their loss. Ari was always the person counted on to give exactly the right speech at a birthday party, include those that felt uncomfortable, comfort those that needed a shoulder. He made every effort to shower those he loved with luxuries large and small. People felt special his his presence. The world lost a humanitarian who gave his time, money, and energy to those who needed it,a nd there was nothing he couldn't do. More importantly, there was nothing he WOULDN'T do to improve someone's life.
Perhaps the most important person who has yet to feel his loss, is our son, Gabriel, born on September 17th, just six days after Ariel died. This precious baby would have had an adoring father. Instead, he has an angel.
The only thing Ari didn't have in his life was more time, but I am comforted that my sweet husband lived his short life to the fullest. He knew how lucky he was, not only to have the results of his great achievements, but to have so much love. And, we who loved him, knew what we had long before he was taken from us. He loved us from his soul, and we loved him. We still do.
Ari, you are my heart. You have my soul.
Mark & Angie Woldman
March 12, 2002
I first met Ari Thanksgiving Day at my home some four or five years ago. He had just moved to California to take over managing Future Source's West Coast Division. He was *alone* for Thanksgiving that year because his wonderful girlfriend (Jenna) had not yet had the chance to make the move to be with him. The idea of Ari's spending Thanksgiving alone did not sit well with my husband and I, so we insisted he should join us. I'm so glad that we did. Ari lit up our home that evening with stories of being a boy growing up in New York, stories of his family and friends, and stories of a beautiful girl he planned on marrying some day in the near future. He was truly gifted in the area of story telling, you couldn't wait to hear what came next when, he was (as his wife so lovingly put it in an email to me) a true wordsmith, and he shared my love of writing. I was so certain he would become a famous novelist someday. So certain. I will never forget the day my husband came home, visibly shaken and pale, tears in his eyes, with the sad news of Ari's passing. We cried for days...and I still cry from time to time. This is one of the saddest losses we've ever known, mammoth in size, even six months later after the fact. This beautiful man, who had a beautiful wife of whom he loved so dearly, an amazing career, a child on the way, not to mention a man who was filled to the brim with an abundance of Life, Love, wit, caring and wonder,is gone. Though our sadness is deep, not only for his passing away so tragically at such a young age, but also for the lives of his wife Jenna and their son Gabriel, who have to carry on in this world without him, we can't help but feel blessed to have had the chance to know Ari, even if it was only for a short time. We wish to extend our emphaty and love to his wife Jenna, their son Gabriel, Ari's parents and family members, and all of his friends who are without question, missing him tremendously.
Enid Futterman
March 3, 2002
Dear Jenna,
I never met Ari, but I was struck by him. I saw my friends Vicky & Paul Caplin when they were getting to know him, and you. Paul was so excited about Ari, who sounded so extraordinary. And then I heard about his death. And then I saw the picture of you and Gabriel on the cover of People. You both looked so beautiful, radiant, and strong that I knew Paul had not exaggerated.
With love, sympathy, and awe,
Enid Futterman
February 5, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL MAN ARIEL LOUIS JACOBS AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE AND BABY...FAMILY AND FRIENDS.STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK.MAY GOD GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..AMEN
Jeremy Newberger
February 1, 2002
Not a day goes by where I don't think about what Ari would say about this or that. My fiancee Michele and I are left without an important part of our lives. When I am older and can try to understand better why Ari was taken from my life, I will surely have some great Arisms to reflect on. He made such an impact on my life. Ari made life fun.
- Jeremy
Laura
January 22, 2002
Ari lived two floors up from me at 500 Kappock st throughout our chilhood. The streets of Riverdale were our playground. I remember once we dared each other to go up and touch the door of what we were sure was a hounted house up the block. It was a cloudy fall afternoon and as Ari creeped up the steps of the rickety front porch and was about to touch the knob of the front door the sky opened up with the loudest clap of thunder and pouring rain. We ran down the block getting soaked and laughing from fear and excitement.
I will always remember Ari with love and laughter.
Scott Brown
January 17, 2002
I had the pleasure of hiring, training and working with Ari during his short career in computer sales. When I first met him I immediately knew he had that special ability to sell in an honest, caring way. He genuinely cared about his clients and had that special energy level and twinkle in his eyes that indicated he loved what he was doing. He was sharp as a tack and smooth as silk.
I was saddened when he chose to set out for the big city and begin a career in the financial industry. I knew he would be successful. That sadness is dwarfed by the sadness that came over me when I learned of his untimely death.
I had lost track of Ari a few years ago but am pleased that he had found his "lioness" and knew the joy of anticipating a new life before he was taken from us so suddenly.
Larry Beaudoin
January 17, 2002
The aptly named Ariel, who like the sprit in "A Midsummer's Night Dream", touched us with his magic smile. Those of us who worked with him at Computerland of Albany, Tony, Wendy, Steve, Mike, Nora, myself and others enjoyed his sense of humor and his positive personality. He truly was a spirtual person.
Davide Calise
January 8, 2002
I was a freshman in college living in Hulbert Hall at SUNY Oneonta during the 1990-1991 school year when I first met Ari. He was a hard working college student working at Radio Shack at the time and I can recall him telling me how well he did as a salesman. We also lost touch after college, however, I remember all of the good times we spent together. I did not know he was happily married and worked at Caplin Systems, so my thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends who knew him. I remember when he lived on Kappock Street in the Bronx dating back over 10 years.
I did not know he moved to Briarcliff Manor, as I lived only 10 minutes away in Cortlandt Manor.
I'm so deeply sorry for the loss of Ari.
Andrew Meranus
January 7, 2002
I grew up in Riverdale and graduated from Kennedy High School with Ari. We lost touch over the years and it was so difficult to learn about this tragedy. My best wishes go out to Jenna, their newly born child and both of their families. My thoughts, and those of the entire Meranus family from Riverdale are with you.
Sincerely,
Andrew
Teresa Jahn
December 28, 2001
We are very sorry for your loss of Ariel. May his life and love live on in Gabriel and those who love him. May you always feel the warmth of his love radiate into your hearts. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Cathy Beebe
December 28, 2001
I was blessed with knowing Ari while he was living and working in Albany, NY. He always could bring a smile to my face and make me laugh (especially when I asked him to wiggle his ears!) I was always amazed at what a hard worker he was (at the time I knew him he sold computers and then began working at Dean Witter) and how comfortable he could make people feel when they were around him. He turned me on to the music of Midnight Oil and taught me everything about researching and buying stocks. Although I was sad when I learned he was moving to New York City, I knew it was where he belonged.
Although I lost touch with Ari after he moved, he was the first person I thought of when the horrifying events of September 11th unfolded before my eyes. I was deeply saddened and distraught when I learned his life had been lost in this tragedy.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Jenna, and your new son Gabriel as you try to go on with your lives. I will try to always remember Ari with smiles and laughter, rather than tears, for smiles and laughter was the gift that Ari always gave me as my friend. I will never forget him.
terry sampson
December 26, 2001
Dear Jenna,
I have watched you on TV and I admire your courage. You are truly a very brave person. My heart goes out to you in this time of loss and yet a new child. May God watch over you both.
Jony Melrod Weiss
December 11, 2001
I remember playing with Ari when we were kids. I used to call him my little brother. I am sorry that we didn't get to spend more time together as adults. But, maybe our baby sons can play together and carry on the tradition of friendship. We held a little family ceremony for him here. Please know I treasure his memory and he will never be forgotten.
My family and I mourn his loss and celebrate his wonderful life.
With love and sympathy to his family and all who knew and loved him.
Barbara Capalbo
December 1, 2001
i hope it helps to know that you are still in our thoughts and prayers. My heart goes out to you and your family at this sad holiday time of the year.
November 29, 2001
I remember Ariel as a wonderful little boy in Riverdale. My heartfelt condolences to his parents, family and friends.
November 12, 2001
You are still sorely missed.
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