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Frank Palombo Obituary
"It was hard to dislike Frank, but he sure could get on your nerves," chuckled his brother-in- law, Michael Courtien. "He was always trying to do the right thing. But he was no diplomat."
An example, perhaps burnished by memory: union delegates are about to vote on a proposal, considered a done deal. Predictably, Firefighter Frank Palombo's hand shoots up. Unpredictably, he announces his support. Buzz, buzz. The proposal fails: If Frank says yes, let's rethink, because disagreement is normal for Frank.
There was no arrow straighter than Mr. Palombo, 46, of Ladder Company 105 in Brooklyn. His moral outlook was shaped by studying for the priesthood; his degree in philosophy; the Roman Catholic prayer group with whom he worshiped twice a week; his wife, Jean, and their eight sons and two daughters, ages 1 to 15. Mrs. Palombo would look down the dinner table and catch him weeping. "I'm so fortunate to have all these children," he would say.
Mr. Palombo, who joined the department in 1979, believed God would provide. Since his death, Brooklyn neighbors who never said hello stop by and towns in far-away states send gifts. The family is well, reports Mr. Courtien. They believe that God is providing and that good is flowing from the tragedy. As a point of view it was quite Frank-like.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Luis Alberto ORDEJÓN CASADO
September 12, 2020
Gran hermano de comunidad y excelente responsable. Le gustaba hacer las barbacoas en la convivencia de mes. Descansen en paz. Jean murió 8 años más tarde de cáncer.
Luis Alberto ORDEJÓN CASADO
September 12, 2020
Que era un gran responsable de Comunidad. Yo era presbitero de la suya en San Colomba. Excelente.persona y muy cristiano. Le encantaba hacer barbacoas para la comunidad en las convivencias de mes. Descansen en paz. Frank y Jean 8 años más tarde. Las palabras de Jean en su funeral me llenaron de esperanza, cuando dijo los cristianos en un funeral celebramos la vida, no la.muerte. Mucha fe en Cristo resucitado.
S.F. Friscia III
September 28, 2016
In Memory with
Honor & Respect.
Walter Flores
April 13, 2015
I'm also from the Neocatechmenal Way as Frank was, and I read Jean's testimony in a Spanish language website from the Way. Shocking from the beginning until the end, yet you could see the Lord's mercy by reading Jean's words. May the Lord's peace be always with you. I'm from the 19th Community of San Vicente de Paúl in San Pedro Sula, Honduras.
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Bedford Brown
September 20, 2014
Just an update for this great remembrance of the legacy of Frank Palumbo. His wife Jean passed away from colon cancer. This was reported on WABC TV NY Channel 7 Eye Witness news. One of their 8 sons was being interviewed by a reporter and seemed well adjusted considering all that the family has been through. The oldest child would now be about 28 years of age.
Jerry Mosley
September 18, 2014
I had the honor of climbing for mr. Palombo in the Nashville memorial stairclimb and he will always be in my heart and will always be with me on future stairclimbs along with the 4 others I have climbed for in the past. I just wanted to say that his sacrifice will never be forgotten . God bless
September 12, 2013
My name is Vince and I am a FF in Cheyenne WY. Yesterday I carried a picture of Frank Palombo in the Denver Memorial Stair Climb. Just wanted to leave a note letting his friends and family know that he has not been forgotten. God Bless all of you.
Nick Miokovic
September 11, 2013
To the family of Frank A Palombo: I could not let this day pass without acknowledging the sacrifice made by the Men and Women of the New York City Fire Department. Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss.
G. Freeman
September 11, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jeff Sipes
October 22, 2012
My wife and I visited the 9/11 Memorial this weekend while in NYC. I saw Mr. Palombo's name on the west wall of the South Memorial Pool. I simply wanted to write and let you know that his sacrifice - your sacrifice will not be forgotten. Bless you and your family and thank you.
william selby
September 18, 2011
The photograph I took of the Palombo family members at the WTC MEMORIAL is featured in the video of my visit there. I hope you & those who knew Frank will take a moment to see my tribute to those who lost their lives on 9-11-01. Thankyou and God Bless.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKA1VZsU7Jw
rose hernandez
September 18, 2011
Thanks
September 17, 2011
I believe this is your family? Took the photo today, Sept. 15, 2011. God Bless.
William Selby
September 15, 2011
Emily M
September 15, 2011
God bless the Palombo family. The ones I have met are great people, one being one of my most trusted friends. Rest in peace Mr. Palombo, thank you for your sacrifice.
Dave Ray
September 12, 2011
To the Palombo family,
My name is Dave and I am a FF in California. On Sept. 11th we held a memorial stair climb to honor our fallen brothers from the FDNY. I was honored to carry the Palombo name on my coat as well as a photo and short bio of Frank. I looked to him several times on the climb for strength to continue as I am sure you have also over these last 10 years.
Please know that the sacrafice made by Frank and the other FF on that day will not be forgotten.
With Love and Prayers,
Dave Ray
Engine Co. 105
vicki palombo
September 11, 2011
thanks
Kimberly M. Roger
September 11, 2011
watching the 10th anniversary and just wanted to say "Thank you Frank for your all you gave..may God Bless your family your friends.. I am overwhelmed as always to see the images of that day...RIP ....
Kimberly M. Roger of Casselberry, FLorida
August 31, 2011
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE
KATHY
MERCERSBURG PA
January 22, 2011
to franks family very sorry about your loss. frank sounded like a very sweet and family loving chap. rest in peace frank.
Brenda Courtien
September 7, 2010
Hi Jean,
I just watched on TV the Towers going down and I am again overwhelmed.
God Bless you Jean & the Family.
Bedford Brown
August 5, 2010
I often think of the Daily News or NY Post, which showed the Palumbo children together, and the story of how Frank met Jean, his future wife, when she was 14 years old. I admire the NY City FD. I am a retired firefighter in a small village. To me, being a firefighter in NY City, is the most admirable profession one can attain to. May God bless the Palumbo family and the FDNY.
jack miranda
March 21, 2010
to the palumbo family,,,,may god bless this young man....i grew up with frank in brooklyn we played football together in the 28th st alley way...he was a beautiful young man and as things go we lost touch with one another...you r truly blessed to have a man like this as a huband and a father....i will never forget him !!!!
Rose Hernandez
September 13, 2009
Dear Palombo family,
I don´t know where to start! It makes me sad to think of that dark day! But also remembering the day i met you Jean, with the bruno´s(antonio & maira rosa) I saw you Jean, and it gave me strength to continue to follow the Lord, i am also of the Neo-Cat and meeting you was really unforgetable. And then i met Frankie,again with the Bruno´s! I have you in my prayers and now that we are doing the novena of Mother Teresa! God really surprises me, and more knowing how you guys are doing! A big hug to each and pray for me too.
Peace, Rose Hernandez
September 11, 2009
To the Palumbo family,
I attended PS 154 with Maria and some of her younger siblings. I remember how brave and strong she was during and after the news of the attack. Every anniversary, Frank Palumbo and this family crosses my mind. I have lived in Florida for the past six years and not a single anniversary went by that I did not think about you all. I remember you all being beautiful people. Mrs. Palumbo you are such a pleasant woman, extremely strong and I remember you being an wonderful mother. I pray that you all are doing well. I would love to hear from Maria. Take care and God bless you all.
Elizabeth Spencer
Former classmate/playmate of Palumbo children
Brenda Courtien
September 11, 2009
To Jean and family,
Today is September 11, 2009 and I was thinking of you again. I think of Frank often and the happenings of that horrible, horrible day. Love to all.
Get well soon Jean. I will be praying for you.
Brenda Courtien
Sister-in-law
Andrys Perez
May 18, 2009
I known Frank and Jean because of church. He was in the Neocatechumenal Way as well as I was. He and his wife Jean were the responsible of all the communities at saint Columba Church. He was always kind to everyone no matter from where we came from. Frank always found the words to give us peace and to teach us about the love of God and his mercy. I will always keep you next to my heart and my prayers as well. God will to care of you family.
Nashaly Mercado
January 8, 2009
I known Frank because of church. He was in the Neocatechumenal Way as well as I was. I know mostly Maria his daughter. I want to send my condolences to them. We miss you very dearly at church Frank.
Kyle Petau
September 11, 2008
I am a firefighter from the Denver Metro area of Colorado. We had 343 firefighters climb 110 stories to honor our fallen brothers. Every firefighter climbing was given a photo of one of the fallen in NYC. I was given FF Frank Palombo. I have never met FF Palombo but now feel an attachment to him. I just want to say to his family that we will never forget and that his service and ultimate sarifice will always be remembered.
Shara Sommer-Breit
September 11, 2008
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!!!! You are and always will be a HERO!! We thank you for your heroism.
jolen crame
April 3, 2008
my deepest condolences to you and your family. i was just looking for someone and i accidentally stumbled on this site.
MM
September 11, 2007
Frank and Jean made a beautiful family. Those children are his gift to the world.
Jean, may you feel more peace each day.
Happy Anniversay in Heaven Frank.
darlene
July 28, 2007
I meet frank in my church in the bronx we will never forget him. God bless his family
P Tabbernor
January 25, 2007
In memory....
Kristine
November 29, 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.
Laura Moore
September 11, 2006
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Palombo family. I am thankful that I will have Thomas, Maria, and Joseph to touch my life this year at Ridgewood High School through the Guidance Department.
Anna Petrino
September 10, 2006
Dear Palumbo family
Its 5 years today and my thoughts and prays are with you. I am your grandmothers neighbor our street is dedicated to him. I always look to get a glimps of those beautiful children when they come to see there grandparents. If they are anything like there grandmother Frances they will be strong, loving and wonderful adults. My heart aches everytime i see her but i know she knows her son is in a better place safe and looking down on all those faces who love and look for his guidance and he is right there with them.
Edewin Perez
June 1, 2005
I loved you and respected you like a father. I miss you a lot.
God will be always present in your family, because you are with God and in God. So, you never left you are there where love Is.
Dawn Edelman
September 11, 2003
To the Palombo Family,
Just wanted to let you know that my prayers are with you. I pray for Mr. Palombo's wife and children. May God be with all of you, and give you all the strength to go on with life. I don't know any of you personally, but I learned about all of you when this tragic day occurred. I was student teaching at P.S. 154 in Brooklyn.
September 11, 2003
Dearest Palumbo Family,
May God take care of each one of you...I pray today for the soul of Frank Palumbo....may we all learn from him what it means to serve the Lord... Our God....and our fellow mankind....You are blessed to have him in your hearts forever....May the peace the Lord be with you always....
Glenn Miele
July 11, 2003
My sincere condolences to the Palombo family.
Frank, God bless you and your family, and we pray that you now rest peacefully in the hands of the Lord.
"Isaiah 60:18
Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise!!!"
Holy Spirit of God watch over and protect us all...
Remembering you Frank,
Glenn R. Miele & the Miele family
Kelly E. Collins, the Collins Family, and the Sturges Family.
Mary Myers
June 23, 2003
Dear Mrs Palombo - I first heard of your family on T.V. I cannot for the life of me remember what program it was but it highlighted your family. It touched my heart tremendously. Especially one of your little boys when he cried recalling his daddy, near the end of the show. That memory has been burned in my heart forever, he reminded me of one of my boys. I have 6 children of my own ( ages 22-3 ) and if God so chose's maybe more one day. While I did not know anyone personally who died on Sept. 11th my oldest son is currently serving in Iraq in the 101st Airborne due to that act. I am proud of my son and the fact he is there for us. We are not a vengeful family and believe all things come together for good, the good of our Lord. With all that said I do sorrow for all who lost someone. I would like to hear from you one day Mrs. Palombo, hear how you and your family are doing. May God continue to keep you as you walk the walk of faith.
In Love - Mary Myers
Emily McLeod
February 20, 2003
Please accept my condolences, someone in my family was looking through the paper after the attacks and came across a photograph of Frank which they felt bore a strong family resemblance. My family name is McLeod but there are still a few Palombos in England who seem to recall that some members of the family emigrated to America a long time ago. They tried to make enquiries but there was no response from the newspaper. I feel a strong connection with Frank's family and would just like to extend my heartfelt sympathies to you.
Our Lady's Angels Rosary Prayer Group (Cote')
September 15, 2002
My daughter Marie, who lives in Manhattan asked our prayer group to pray especially for Frank and his family when we gathered for our prayer meeting on September 11, 2002. She emailed us the tribute and we were honored to pray for him and will continue to pray for Frank and the whole family.
In Love and Prayers,
Joan Cote', contact person
Our Lady's Angels Rosary prayer Group
Patrick Brennan, CP
September 13, 2002
Dear Family of Frank Palombo,
I am a Roman Catholic Priest, a very happy one! I was deeply touched by the story of your wonderful husband and father. I can only pray that you will always remember the very best of dear Frank. How I wish more men could be loving and prayerful as he was. And what a wonderful gift to our Catholic faith. May God love and bless you all. Please know you are held in a special place in my prayers.
Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Pat Brennan
Passionist Priest
Sierra Madre, California
Claudine Lachica
September 12, 2002
The communities of St. Mary's in West New York are still praying for you and your family. Now, you have attained the "perect joy".
Linda Kirian
September 11, 2002
We have a dog tag with Frank's name on it. When we received it, he was missing in action and we prayed for his safe rescue and strength for his family. I heard his name read today and said another prayer for him and his family. He will live forever in our memories. God Bless His Family and God Bless America!
Denise Caraway
September 11, 2002
I have a dog tag with Mr. Palombo's name. I have never met him, and it was nice to read the article about him. I also have tags and bracelets with a port authority policeman, an Army man, and a Navy man that all perished September 11, 2001. They have been a lot of places with me - in spirit, at least. My sincere condolences to the family - he sounds like a great person.
Laurie Appelbaum
September 9, 2002
Uncle Frankie,
We really miss you here. You should see granny she is a mess. I am very proud of what you did and tried to accomplish 9/11. I think your one of the best firefighters, uncles and friends that a person can ever have. Pleasaelook over Aunt Jean and the 10 kids because they need help.
I miss and love you.
Love
Laurie
Lorenzo Munroe
September 6, 2002
Frankie,
"May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He let his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May he look upon you with kindness and bless you with His peace. The Lord bless you" and your family.
Maria & Robert Aleman
August 26, 2002
My God, it has been nearly a year. How time flys. Not a day goes by that Robert and I don't think of you Frank and also pray for your family daily.
John Dolan
May 23, 2002
As a firefighter and one of ten children, Franks story hits especially close to home. My thoughts and prayers are with Frank and his family. He has become a true inspiration.
Angie Campbell
May 8, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Michael Iezzi
May 7, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Frank to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
Cathy Brunton
April 29, 2002
Dear Jean and family,
God has brought us together in many ways. May our strenghts together help us get through these difficult times. I will always be there for you and your family as I know you have been with mine. God will give us strenght.
Sincerly,
Cathy Brunton and family
Diana Linn
March 30, 2002
Our family visited the firehouse at "Ground Hero", where we all said a prayer for all the firefighters. My brother and I both purchased a wrist band. Mine had Frank Palumbo on it. My Dad is a firefighter here in Philly. I'm 10 years old and we want God to Bless your family.
Aleman Family
March 29, 2002
It's the Easter Season, and this will be the first Easter Vigil celebrated without Frank. Our hearts go out to his family and friends, and may the joy of the Easter season bring some peace and happiness into everyone's hearts. God Bless!
March 21, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL ..WONDERFUL HERO...FRANK A.PALOMBO AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE..AND CHILDREN...FAMILY AND FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE..PRAY FOR THE REST OF THE WORLD..AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.FRANCIS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
C.J. Palombo
March 11, 2002
I just happened to go to this site and went to the P's not expecting to see the name Palombo, which is my last name also. I can't tell you how surprised I was to see a Palombo as one of the victims of 9/11. My heart goes out to the Frank Palombo family, and you will be my prayers. God be with you all.
Pamela Broussard
March 11, 2002
Like so many others who have heard Franks story, I am touched by the love he carried in his heart. He gave so much and finally gave all he had. To the family, continue to feel the love. It is there with you all the time and will never leave you.
I offer to you all the strength, love, and healing energy I have to give. Please know that you are never alone.
Frank.....he will be remembered always. A shining example of what real love is.
Lisa Appelbaum
March 2, 2002
Well Uncke Frankie...you were the best...not only you are my Godfather and Uncle your my father...I looked uo to yo \u big time and you inspired me alot in everything especially in God and in the Church. You gave me 10 beautiful cousins that I love and miss. I'm gald you were part of my life and family. I Love and Miss you sooo much...I'll see You and my Mom up in heaven when I get there...Love you lots
maria aleman
February 27, 2002
Frank,
Robert misses you terribly because you have inspired him so much in your faithfullness to the Lord. May God bless and watch over your family.
Melchor Sánchez de Toca
January 18, 2002
I was deeply moved by your faith and confidence in God. We are also 8 children, and I can say that God never deceives, and his providence has never failed to us.
God bless your family.
Steven Ganz
January 12, 2002
We just serviced Anthony with a new pair of "cool" eyeglasses. It was then that we learned of his father.
Our hearts go out to the Palombo family
Dr. Steven Ganz and the staff of The Optical Center
Clair Palumbo
January 10, 2002
Thank God for you, Frank A. Palombo - you were a hero sent to us from God. May you rest in peace.
While looking through the list of people who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, I clicked on your name to see if you were a distant relative.
Although I saw no connection, I wanted to express my condolences to your wife, children and family.
It is because of men like you that we are blessed to have such a great nation.
May God bless and take care of your family always.
Sincerely,
Clair Palumbo
Hackettstown, NJ
[email protected]
Judy C
January 1, 2002
Rest In Peace, Frank and may you and your loved ones find the sunshine behind the dark clouds that are now overhead!
Thank you for what you did everyday and thank you for what you did on September 11. You will never be forgotten!
God Bless you and God Bless your loved ones, friends and fellow firefighters who perished and those who survived!
Pam Weiner
December 27, 2001
After seeing your story on 20/20 last night I wanted to take a moment to let you know how moved I was by your story and your family. Although your loss is imeasurable - you have wonderful children who will keep your husband's legacy alive - for all of us - not just your children. You are truly the embodiment of the American spirit - and as your children saluted their Father, I salute you and yours, and pray for time to ease your pain but not to weaken your memory.
Teresa Jahn
December 16, 2001
We are very thankful for Frank's dedication at helping others. Such a dedication comes with a very warm and caring heart. May his strong religious beliefs, his caring, life and love live on through his eight sons and two daughters. We are extremely sorry for your loss of Frank. May God bless your family. Our hearts cry with you in your loss.
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
Alison Steigerwald
November 29, 2001
Words cannot describe how sorry I am for your loss. Mr Palombo's profile mentioned that the sight of his children around the dinner table made him weep with gratitude. Now, I'm certain, you weep from your loss. This horrible, violent act of cowardness has robbed your family. It is so senseless. I am so sorry. Know that he will always be with you, loving you, keeping you safe. God Bless...I will pray for the Palombo children FOREVER!
Malissa Liddy
November 22, 2001
God Bless your family.My heart goes out to your you. May God comfort you in this time. Frank was serving his country and his city. Every day he put his life on the line. I will always remember him in my prayers and wear the bracelet bearing his name as a memorial and a reminder of how he served. I pray that your family draws closer to the Lord. I know that Frank is sitting at the feet of our Lord, and that one day we will all be with each other. Your sister in Jesus Christ. Love Malissa
Paul T. Devine
November 21, 2001
May God bless you and keep you.Our prayers are with you and your beautiful family. My grandfather was a Boston fireman.We have tremendous respect for your profession.
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