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Robert Curatolo Obituary
Three brothers – two firefighters and a police officer – went to ground zero on Wednesday, Sept. 12, to search for the fourth: Robert Curatolo, 31, a firefighter and the baby of the family, married only three weeks. They had a pretty good idea where he was, because rescuers had already found the helmet of the lieutenant he had been with. Rescuers had also, it turned out, found Mr. Curatolo's body, under a firetruck. The brothers were told it would be better if someone else made the ID.
Quiet Robert, funny Robert, Robert who ironed his clothes and worked two jobs. "He was the cautious one, I was the wild one; I still can't believe this happened," said Billy Curatolo, a firefighter with Engine 243 in Brooklyn.
Robert Curatolo, who lived in Staten Island, was off duty when the towers were hit, one of the guys whose shift ended at 9 a.m. He hitched a ride to the scene with a 19th Precinct car. After the first building collapsed he was seen dragging a man with two broken legs to safety, then – in an eerie photo snapped by another firefighter – heading back to the second building. That is the last image his brothers have of him.
"We always have birthday parties for the nieces and the nephews and he was always late and always – since he was a teenager – he would arrive saying, 'Hello, my fans!" said brother Anthony, the cop.
"He was always late to everything," said his brother Billy. "Except the World Trade Center. He gets there on time."
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Marti Dieteman
September 20, 2024
Hi,
Wanted to let you know that I have his bracelet after this tragic event. I cherish it always.
Marti Dieteman
IL
Judy Kutay Egeland
September 10, 2024
Judy Kutay Egeland
September 10, 2024
Judy Kutay Egeland
September 10, 2024
GODS BLESSINGS in HONOR of a TRUE HERO!!! Every 9-11 I display a flag in front of my house in Coubtryside Il., that has Robert’s name & a mini story of His heroics that terrible day in 2001. I purchased the flag years back at an absolutely stunning tribute in OakBrook Il. “FLAGS OF HONOR”.
Gods blessings to His entire family every year on 9-11 and may GOD BLESS AMERICA.
Sincerely,
Judy
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Frances P Curatolo
September 11, 2021
My prayers are with you. I don´t know if you are a cousin of mine. I know my father Calogero Curatolo had some who lived in Brooklyn and I remember visiting them. My father was born in Castellammare del Golfo Sicily. Sorry for your loss
Cindy Roe
September 5, 2021
Remembering Robert on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Alex Lai
July 2, 2019
In memory of a heroic first responder who sacrificed his life in the midst of danger. Enjoy the 4th of July too!
Joe Perrotta
September 26, 2018
Rest In Peace Brother
September 11, 2017
Praying for family and friends of Robert Curatolo - Thankful for a young man willing to give his all for his country and people he didn't even know. RIP - we will never forget.
Jana Campbell
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2017
Rest easy brother !!
Kathleen Andronikos
February 6, 2017
It was an honor for me to wear your name in a 9/11 remembrance walk for the 343. I still have the names of you and Paul Keating hanging up in my office. God speed and we will never forget.
JOE PERROTTA
September 12, 2016
Rest Easy Brother !!
Catherine Cloke
September 11, 2016
I will always remember you "Fin" as the first true hero ive ever known personally! I am so happy that I was able to share your beautiful wedding with you and Christine and the family three weeks before. RIP Cuz You are greatly missed!!
Ken Maine
September 13, 2015
To all of Robert's family, friends and loved ones. I participated in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in Denver, CO in honor of your loved one. I will never forget.
Joe Perrotta
September 12, 2015
RIP brother
Morgan Hair
August 29, 2015
To the family of the beloved Robert Curatolo,
A week or so after the unthinkable day happened, I, a fireman's daughter, received a red metal bracelet. On this bracelet is a name, that of your beloved Robert. I want you to know I still wear it and people still ask who is on there? Did you know him? My response, he was a hero that gave his last breath doing what he did best on the unthinkable day. When asked why do I still wear it, because he will forever be that hero and deserves recognition everyday for his ultimate sacrifice. From Austin, TX my prayers are with you for as long as I live.
September 11, 2014
To the family and friends of Firefighter Robert Curatolo. I completed the Denver Memorial Stair Climb today in honor of your loved one. I will never forget.
Ken Maine
Firefighter
Marti Mayse
September 11, 2014
I am wearing Robert's bracelet, as I do every year on this date. God bless his soul and his family. His bravery and heroic efforts are so much appreciated. Thank you, Mr. Curatolo.
August 28, 2014
As I sit here just thinking about things, you always come across my mind. Love and miss you uncle rob
Brian Chambers
September 12, 2013
We climbed again in Nashville. I found your picture again in the stairwell. I never had the privilege to meet you but you were with me as I climbed. Rest easy brother.
September 11, 2013
My daughter, a fire fighter, did the Denver Stair Climb today and she carried his name to honor him.
Karen Bunda
September 11, 2013
Thinking of you!
Mike Friscis
September 11, 2013
Miss you Rob. 12 years does not make it any easier.
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2013
Sleep well brother !!
Joe Perrotta
March 2, 2013
Happy 43rd Brother !! RIP !!
KATHY SCHLOTTERBECK
September 11, 2012
WE REMEMBER RIP
Lyric Madison DiLoren
September 11, 2012
Every year I think of you and the heros that gave their lives this day. I remembedr when my best friend Albert and I visited your ladder co. You and those who lost their lives today will never be forgotten....God Bless you and your family.
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2012
RIP Brother !!
September 10, 2012
I am honored to represent Mr. Curatolo in the 2012, 9/11 Memorial Stairclimb in Nashville, TN. You will forever be remembered, sir.
Brian Chambers
FAO/EMT
Bowling Green Fire Dept.
Bowling Green, KY
Joe Perrotta
March 2, 2012
Happy 42nd up there brother !!
I am honored to let you know that I am also a fireman for 2 departments and my family is now the proud owners of the flag that held Roberts name.
Casey Bennett
September 15, 2011
Amy Pewitt
September 12, 2011
My son, Byron Pewitt did the 9/11 Star Climb in Nashville, TN in remembrance of Robert. My prayers are with your family.
Byron Pewitt
September 12, 2011
Yesterday, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I had the honor of climbing in the Nashville Memorial 9/11 Stair Climb. Each of the 343 firefighters that participated carried with them a badge including the name and photo of a firefighter that was lost on 9/11. It was my honor and privilege to climb in memory of Robert Curatolo. I will never forget the guy I never got to meet.
Jeff Bossert
September 11, 2011
I was a good friend of Rob's in high school and I have had a hard time finding the words for the past ten years. Believe me not a week goes by that I dont think about Rob and his family and how brave he was and how he was such a great guy and friend. As well as how his family has suffered. His family has always been a group of people who are kind and generous. Especially during this weekend, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and best wishes.
dawn brideson
September 11, 2011
Rest In Peace my high school classmate!
Dawn Brideson
September 11, 2011
To Rob's family...May you find peace in knowing that Rob is looking down upon you everyday and will always be with you. I am honored that I knew him.
dawn brideson
September 11, 2011
i was a classmate of rob's in high school. i found out two years ago of rob's passing on 9/11 and I was crushed and still am. yesterday and today I have found myself tearing up and have to explain to my 7 year old why. We went to church yesterday and lit a candle for all the angels who went to heaven on 9/11/01. Rob, may you rest in peace and one day we will meet again.
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2011
RIP Finster !!
Lyn OConnor
September 11, 2011
My name is Lyn OConnor. I am a Sergeant for the San Francisco police department. I was greatly honored to wear the name and photo of Robert Curatolo today in a 911 memorial climb up the stairs of our Transamerican building in downtown San Francisco. Tonight I light a candle for Robert and his loved ones. I never met Robert but now, I will never forget his name.
Janet Kurz
September 11, 2011
To Anthony, Lisa and the Curatolo family - my thoughts and prayers are with you on this day of remembrance and dedication. My heart is broken for you. I know your brother was a brave and dedicated servant of New York and I know he is missed terribly. May you and your family have peace always.
September 11, 2011
Robert Curator was the brother of my former principal i know she misses him very much and i am very grateful for what he did may he rest in peace
Susan McDermott
September 9, 2011
I continue to keep Robert in my thoughts & prayers and wish peace for his family and friends.
RW
August 30, 2011
As we approach another anniversary, I remember how Rob stood up for his friends and teammates back in high school. I have always tried to be as tough as Rob. Now I look to try to be as giving as he was that day , and I know I can't measure up, but I will still try.
Joe Perrotta
July 2, 2011
Another successful golf outing in your honor pal !! I hope you and your mom are together up there !! RIP Brother !!
Bill Jones
June 3, 2011
I have been wearing a bracelet in memory of Robert Curatolo for the past 5 years. My thoughts are always with him and his family. I have been a firefighter for almost 32 years and I will never take this braclet off. Robert, may you RIP
Joe Perrotta
March 2, 2011
Happy Birthday Brother !!
Joe Perrotta
December 23, 2010
RIP Mrs.C 12/22/10 !! Finster, I hope that you and your mom are together now looking down on us !! Sleep well until we meet again !
I remember, every year...
Madison DiLoren
September 12, 2010
To the Curatolo family, I just wanted to let you know that back in Sept. 2001, Ebay sold id bracelets and I bought one since the money was going to the Sept 11th Fund. I had Robert Curatolo. I visited his Ladder Co. in Nov. 2001 and his fellow firefighters gave me a shirt and told great things about him. I was a Disney cast member at the time and left presents from Disney for his beloved wife, Christine. I want you to know, that every year, I honor him by wearing the bracelet, and I honor all of those who lost their lives that day. Every year I wish your family love. God Bless, Madison DiLoren, aka, Cruella DeVil back then.
Clark Family
September 11, 2010
Today we visited the Healing Fields memorial in Tempe, AZ. We purchased the flag in Robert's memory. Our family was moved by his bravery and we will fly the flag proudly in his honor. God Bless You.
September 11, 2010
We remember you every day Robert, but especially today.
Never forget - The Stinson Family
Joe Perrotta
September 10, 2010
Before I forget to do this tomorrow I just wanted to say that I Miss Ya !! RIP Brother !!
Joe Perrotta
March 5, 2010
Happy Belated 40th Pal !!
February 27, 2010
To Rob's Family and Friends, I'm thinking of you as his birthday approaches. I remember that he would turn 40 on this coming Tuesday, March 2. Thanks for sharing your memories and photos--and for giving me this opportunity to say, "I care." Please think of this entry as a hug from me.
Peggy Curatolo
February 14, 2010
I too am proud to be a Curatolo....in memory of Robert Curatolo
Francesco Curatolo
November 17, 2009
I was in NY in the past week (the first time in my life) and I was shocked when I knew that a person with my same last name was one of the victims. I didn't expect that. All my support to his family and all the Curatolos in America.
September 11, 2009
Uncle Rob, I think about you everyday and miss you very much. Today is very hard for me again, I feel so angry and sad. Love, "Nerd boy" Mike Curatolo
Linda Monaghan
September 11, 2009
Growing up in Rosebank, and attending St. Mary's, you had to know at least one of the Curatolo's. I think of them often and, and feel for their loss of Robert. They are in my thoughts and prayers, today, and always.
Karen Bunda
September 11, 2009
I Remember!
Caroline Cordice
September 11, 2009
My thoughs and prayers are with you and your family. I'm more than sure my son Robert Cordice went to St. Mary's with your son Robert and Joey Perrotta.
Joey, thanks for your message this morning.
We can always be proud of our boys.
Caroline Cordice
September 11, 2009
To the family of Robert Curatolo - I just want to say thank you for raising a son with such a heart for others - one willing to give of his own life for others. I was given a metal bracelet to wear each year on 9/11. Each bracelet has a name of one of the heros that died that day. The name on my bracelet happens to be Robert Curatolo and I decided this year to do a little research and find out a little about this person whose name I have been wearing. Now I have a face and family information and it feels so much more personal. I pray for your family. I pray that over the years that your tears have been replaced with wonderful memories and that one day you will all see Robert again and that I will get to meet this man, this hero whose name is on my arm every 9/11. May God Bless each of you and May God Bless America.
Sincerely,
Jana Campbell
Longview, Texas
Mike Friscia
September 11, 2009
Rob, not sure why this year seemed so much tougher...not a day goes by that we do not think of you, what your life would be like now. I'm still very, very angry...
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2009
R.I.P Brother !!
Joe Perrotta
March 11, 2009
Happy Belated Pal !
Doug Abraham
March 8, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Amanda Gutierrez
October 25, 2008
I was a classmate of Rob from Curtis and we are planning our 20th class reunion. We are all so upset to have lost one of our best friends. He will be remembered always. Our hearts and prayers are always with your family.
Bob Krajnak
September 11, 2008
Fin, I'm proud to tell my sons that I knew a hero. Our thoughts are with your family today.
Tom Tabaczynski
September 11, 2008
To Robert Curatolo's family and friends, Thinking of you on this seventh anniversary of his death. With great interest I've read all your entries. Thank you for sharing your memories and photos--and for giving me this opportunity to say, "I care."
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2008
Happy 7th Anniversary up there !!Miss You Pal !!
Robert Van Houtte
July 25, 2008
Until i stumbled across this website i was not aware of Robert Curatolo, or the fact that he died as a firefighter on 9/11.
I am the nephew of Peter Curatolo of Monterey. My mother was Peter's Sister, Pauline Curatolo Van Houtte. My condolances to his family.
Joe Perrotta
June 28, 2008
Hey pal, another great golf outing in your memory yesterday ! We all miss you ! Sleep Well !
peter curatolo
April 24, 2008
bob i did not knowyou but i think of you quite often. i gave my granddaughter a bracelet with your name on it . she took it to school for show and tell. distant cousin?? peter curatolo monterey, calif.
Krystal
April 14, 2008
Thanks for trying to help those people that were dying in the fire. You risked your life to save them. You lost your life to people burning in that fire. You weren't thinking of only yourself, but of those people knowing they had a family to get to.You were thinking of how many people were going to die, how many families were going to lose their member. That's what i have to say to you.
Doug Abraham
March 8, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Me and Rob at Universal Studios, Florida 1994
March 4, 2008
Tom Tabaczynski
March 3, 2008
To the Curatolo Family and Joe Perrotta, I know that yesterday would have been Rob's 38th birthday, and just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you. Thanks for sharing so many memories, and for giving me this opportunity to say, "I care."
Joe Perrotta
March 2, 2008
Happy Birthday Pal !!
Tom Tabaczynski
January 14, 2008
To the Curatolo Family, I recently found this Guest Book via a link from a 9/11 memorial website. Thank you for sharing Rob's picture and so many memories, and for giving me this opportunity to say, "I care."
Annalisa Duck-Sutherland
November 22, 2007
Every year on this day I count my blessings. Today I want to give thanks to a young man that I had the privilege of meeting many years ago. It was the Spring of 1995 when I first met Rob while he was vacationing in Florida. He immediately struck me as a genuinely kind person who cared a lot about his family and friends. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing, however I'm proud of him for what he accomplished. Even though I knew him for only a brief moment in time, I will never forget him nor what he and all the others did and continue to do for our country. God bless Rob and his family.
Bill Jones
November 13, 2007
My name is Bill Jones from Langley AFB, VA Fire Dept. I have been a firefighter for over 28 years. I have never know Robert Curatolo. I know he was a brother firefighter and I wear a bracelet in his honor. The bracelet has his name, his company,and a quote that I
added :
Robert Curatolo
FDNY Ladder 16
343 Their Spirit Lives On
My prayers and thoughts are with his family and coworkers and friends.
RC # 4263
October 19, 2007
Millie
September 30, 2007
My mother's maiden name is Curatolo.There are quite a few of Curatolo's in my family. I guess somewhere down the line there must be a connection coming from Italy. We all live in Queens...
I saw Robert's tribute and wanted to say that I wish you all find comfort from his memories, and he is in my prayers. We are proud of him and for his courage.
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2007
Happy 6th Anniversary in Heaven Pal !! Miss Ya !!
Anthony Curatolo
September 11, 2007
We thought of you today, as we do often. I was proud to say you are my uncle today at school. We miss you uncle Rob.
M F
September 11, 2007
Fin, sorry I didn't get to Gr Ze today. You are always in our thoughts. Still seems like yesterday. Wish more prople remembered what happened six years ago.
Frish
Kerri Friscia
September 11, 2007
Miss you Uncle Rob!
Brooke Cothran
September 6, 2007
I am so sorry your loss. May God be with you always.
Doug Abraham
March 8, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Joe Perrotta
March 2, 2007
Happy 37th Birthday Pal !! Miss ya !!
eileen cloke
February 8, 2007
It"s hard to believe it's been 5 years. It sure doesn't feel like it. Robbie is missed very much. I hope everybody is hanging in there. I would like to talk to Anthony if he wants to.I will leave my emaial address for anybody who would like to talk. I would love to here from my family.
Peggy Curatolo-Mitzenmacher
January 31, 2007
Robert, Even though I did not know you, I am very proud of you. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Joe Perrotta
December 2, 2006
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006
Kristine
October 23, 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.
Lorena Southmore Intermediate School
September 28, 2006
Thank you for serving New York City as a police officer and as a fire fighter. :)
Joe Perrotta
September 25, 2006
5 Years too long without you Pal !! Sleep Well !!
P Tabbernor
September 19, 2006
In memory....
Mike F
September 18, 2006
Fin, can't believe it's been five years. It seems like five minutes. We know you are with us, just wish it was in life and not death. Think of you often.
Evelyn B
September 15, 2006
Thank you for your courage and bravery. You made the ultimate sacrifice so that other could live. You will never be forgotten. God Bless!
Karen Bunda
September 11, 2006
I was asked today, "Did you have your moment of silence?". I said, "Yes, of course." But, I don't need the 5th anniversary to think about all the souls that were lost that day. Robert, I think of you often. I wear your name on a bracelet. I will always think of you. One day I will have the privilege of meeting you.
To Robert's family: My best wishes to you all.
Karen Bunda
kelly Curatolo
September 11, 2006
To Rob, not only does it hurt from the loss of you, but also to see your loved ones who miss you so much and live and "try" to hide the pain everday. One day we will all be "there" w/ you. There is an old saying, and how true it to be, only the good die young.How true, and yet how sad..... God bless you Rob, you were always "one of a few" no one could have, "or would have", done it better than you! You wouldn't have had it any other way.
Uncle Rob, we miss you! Love, 2 of your "favorite fans", and 2 nerds, Anth & Mike
Kelly Curatolo
August 20, 2006
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