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John Fiorito Obituary
John Fiorito loved the sun and fishing and wide open spaces. He also loved working as a broker at Cantor Fitzgerald. But he loved nothing more than being a husband and a father. At home, his wife, Karen, says, he was meticulous. Each night, he carefully pressed his clothes. Each morning, he used special clippers to groom his mustache.
At 40, he gave the same kind of attention to his 6-year-old son, "little Johnny," who three years ago was found to have leukemia.
He loved trains and boats because that is what little Johnny loved. And when his son needed special care, the family moved closer to a good hospital, where little Johnny would eventually receive a successful bone marrow transplant. Mr. Fiorito -- or "Johnny Fever" as some of his friends jokingly botched his name -- also loved surprises. He proposed to his future wife in 1987, at a dinner atop the World Trade Center. A waiter brought her ring on a silver platter. "John was fidgeting that night," she said. "After he gave the waiter the ring, I think he was worried he'd never come back with it."
And after 11 years of marriage, one of the biggest surprises was that he never forgot how to be tender. "Till the end, he always held my hand," his wife said. "And he always complimented me on how beautiful he thought I looked. I don't know if every husband does that; but he did."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Cindy Roe
September 12, 2021
Remembering John on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Gregory Tino
September 11, 2021
I was a classmate and friend of John's at Columbia University, Class of 1982.
On the 20th anniversary of the 911 tragedy, John's memory dominates my thoughts. I'd like to extend heartfelt condolences to his his wife and family.
Rest in peace, buddy.
Elvia Ferrell
March 24, 2015
To The Family & Friends of Mr. Fiorito,
What great tributes have been written about John!
I am so sorry for the loss of such a special person in your life.
When these tragedies occur we often wonder, why bad things happen to good people?
You can find comfort in knowing that pain & sorrow were never Gods original purpose for families!
Soon "His will will be done on earth as in heaven." He will restore peace and unity to mankind!
He will not forget our Dear Loved Ones!
Psalms 37:10 & 11
Kind Regards,
Evie
September 11, 2014
You are missed all of the time my dear friend. I will never forget you.
Your forever friend,
Cathy Cerrato
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Andy McCormick
December 4, 2012
John was a business associate who turned into a friend. I met him when he was just starting his career, went to his wedding, spoke to him as his son went through treatment, and sadly was at his memorial service. I can't say I knew him that well, but the images of his family pulling together to get through the horror of his loss is something that has stuck with me and, I hope, made me a better father.
I still think of John often. He brought energy and a great sense of humor to everything he touched. Still miss you, bud.
September 11, 2012
Thinking of you today and always my dearest friend. You are always in my heart.
Cathy Cerrato
Pat Calvano
September 11, 2012
I also met John @ WMC while I was a nurse taking care of Johnny. He will Always be remembered by the staff as a loving father and husband. They were and have been one of the most memorable families in my career. We were graced to know him. When I met him I never knew I would meet my husband who was FDNY and also at the towers shortly after. Rest with the angels John.
Michele Rizzo
September 11, 2012
i met john when i was working at agip in the 80's. we stayed in touch on and off n somewhere along the line lost track of one another. last year i went home to nyc and visited the memorial with my mom and niece. shockingly, i found john's name on the wall. i was sickened and saddened to know he was gone. he, so full of life and spunk. today i read the tribute and found out about little johnny, and the marriage proposal at the wtc. my heart goes out to karen and johnny. there are no words to ease the pain of your loss. just know that john brought joy and laughter to those around him. that is the memory i keep of our friendship. che Dio vi benedica
Marilyn Bush
September 10, 2012
I met John and his wife, Karen, when I was working as a Unit Secretary at the hospital where their son was. I will always remember John and Karen walking down the corridor holding hands. I think of John, Karen, and Johnny every 9/11.
Tricia Debloos
May 19, 2012
I went to the world trade center tribute today. On the way out of the gift shop my son (who is a police officer) bought 3 bracelets. 1 for me, 1 for my daughter and the Last for himself. Mine has John's name so I decided to look him up. I feel great sadness at your loss and I want you to know that I feel a connection with John now. I will keep him and his family in my prayers. Sincerely
September 11, 2011
I will always miss you. You are forever in my heart.
Cathy Cerrato
Camille Fiorito-Marino
September 11, 2011
Rest in Peace.
kim barger
September 10, 2011
Thinking of you & your family! Always in my heart!
pat calvano
September 8, 2011
I still remember John...
September 11, 2010
rest in peace
Sept 11, 2010
Rob Pintabona
January 30, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go out to John's family as they often do when I am reminded of him and how much he did love his family.He was a well-respected broker and an absolute pleasure to know.May he forever R.I.P.
Christopher Meinhardt
September 30, 2009
Big John, I see that you are still very much in the hearts of your friends and family after all these years.
You are still in my thoughts and prayers as well.
September 11, 2009
Johnny,
I still think of you and your family often. I will always miss you.
Your forever friend,
Cathy Cerrato
Marijo Conway
September 11, 2009
You'll always be remembered...especially on this day. My love and prayers to Karen and little Johnnie.
Doug Abraham
January 16, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
darlene barnes
November 23, 2008
I just found out now!! i grew up next door to you in Long Beach on Indiana Ave.I remember you as a kid..You became a very handsome man!
Mark Grilli
September 12, 2008
Johnnie-- i think of you often and my kids and I often pray for Karen and little Johnnie. I cant tell you how many guys still bring up your name or some great old stories. Please know that you live on in the love you had with Karen and John and the great friends that remember you.
Grill
Cathy Cerrato
September 11, 2008
Johnny,
You are still missed very much.
Your forever friend,
Cathy
timothy greensweight
August 27, 2008
we will never forget
Doug Abraham
January 16, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Christine Campbell
September 11, 2007
6 years and still I ask why? Glad to have known you during H.S. years. My prayers are with you and your family.
Pat Calvano
September 11, 2007
I am a nurse at Westchester Medical Center. I took care of John and I have a great memory of your husband John. We were speaking of why he came down from Ct for treatment. He told me how he changed jobs to work for a company called Cantor Fitzgerald so he could spend more time with John. I thought what a great husband and father. When we heard he was a victim in the towers we were all devastated. On this anniversary of 9/11 please know I bow my head in silence when his name is read and say a prayer. I hope John is well and wish you well as you continue on this journey we call life. Always.....Pat Calvano ( was Lightfoot then)
Cathy Cerrato
September 11, 2007
Johnny,
It is now 6 years later and my life has changed a lot. Even though many wonderful things have happened, you are always remembered in my heart. I still miss you and think of you often.
Your forever friend,
Doug Abraham
January 16, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Kristine
October 24, 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.
P Tabbernor
October 6, 2006
In remembrance....
Cathy
September 11, 2006
Johnny,
I can't believe 5 years have gone by. I passed by the WTC site this a.m. The pain and heart ache is still there. I miss you very much. Your spirit will always stay in my heart.
Cathy
Cindy G
September 11, 2006
John, the fondest memory I have of you was as that awesome dad in room 321 at the hospital when Johnny was sick.
If there was ever a father who would compell his child to get better on sheer love alone it was you.
It is my hope that today, 5 years later, your love for karen and and Lil John, keep them safe and strong.
I will NEVER forget.
Glen Heil
September 11, 2006
I didn't know you for a long time, but I'll always remember your warm smile, and the love you showed for your wife Karen and son John. Always look after them John. Rest in peace.
Michael Sassi
September 6, 2006
Buddy boy,
They say that "Time is supposed to heal all wounds and life moves on". So now, as I reflect on the last 5 years life seems to have sped by. We move on with our daily routines but I will never forget you or that horrid day. I miss ya buddy and I will always be thinking of you and your family.
Miscellaneous
August 16, 2005
I never met you but I do know your family and they are the sweetest people. I'm sure you must look down on them and watch over them every single day. I know they miss you very much. God Bless all of them and God Bless you in heaven.
Charlotte & Family
September 15, 2004
John,
We think of you often but especially during this time of year.
Please continue to watch over John & Karen and your family.
We all miss you.
Love,
Charlotte & family
Christine Campbell
August 18, 2004
My prayers are still with you and your family.
It's coming up on another year and we will never forget
I still can't believe it really happened. I hope your family is well.
Olaf
June 18, 2004
A tragic loss.
Linda Harris
September 13, 2003
Dearest Battlestar,
I am very sorry for your loss my friend.
I know it isn't easy to loose a loved one in such terror.
My heart and prayers are with you and all your family members
Please remember that you are not alone my friend!
I will light a candle in John's name.
Charlene Donatello
September 13, 2003
There were no words in the English language that could discribe what the hearts and minds of all Americans felt on September 11, 2001. Our lives were all changed that faitful morning when two aircraft struck the World Trade Center, yet, it was not just an attack on America, it was an attack on the entire world. I know that there will not be a day that goes by that the friends and family of John won't remember the twinkle in his eye and the love he had for his family. I hope that you can take comfort in the fact that he will never really be gone as long as he remains in your hearts. He's the twinkle in his little boy's eyes, and if you listen really hard, you'll hear his voice on the wind out by his favorite fishing hole. God Bless every man and every woman who didn't make it out of the nightmare that was 9/11 and God bless those who were taken out by angels. God Bless America!
Charlene
Charlotte & family
September 11, 2003
John,
Two years have gone by...may you continue to shine down on Karen & John , your family and all your friends that miss you. You will always be remembered in our prayers.
Nancy & Trice Lescrynski - Moncuse
September 11, 2003
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Fiorito family on this 2nd anniversary of John's passing.
It is a day that we will never forget for all of those lost and for their loved one's left behind to grieve for them.
May you always keep John's memory close to you're hearts. God Bless you Karen and son John.
Sincerely.
Nancy & Trice
Joseph Fiorito
September 11, 2003
Dear Mrs Fiorito and son Johnny
I am sorry for your loss, i'm a Chicago Fire Fighter and have a brother John who also is a Chicago Fire Fighter and who was at the World Trade Towers on the second day an fours days later Helping the New York Fighters. I feel a very close feeling because the same name and I don't know you ,but my prayers are always with your family
As Always
Joseph Fiorito (Chicago)
ELLEN LANDRY
September 11, 2003
DEAR MRS.FIORITO AND JOHNNY,
TWO YEARS HAVE PASSED AND I STILL REMEMBER JOHN IN MY PRAYERS AND MY ROSARY GROUP AT ST, FRANCIS OF ASSISSI IN NAUGATUCK, CT. I FEEL A CONNECTION WITH YOUR FAMILY THRU THE COLLEGE OF ST. ELIZABETH. I WISH I HAD THE WORDS THAT WOULD CONSOLE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. I BELIEVE THAT JOHN IS LOOKING DOWN ON ALL OF YOU. PLEASE ACCEPT MY SINCERE SYMPATHY. I'LL THINK OF HIM AND YOUR FAMILY.
FONDLY,
ELLEN LANDRY
Anna Fiorito
August 23, 2003
Dear Fiorito Family, I have tried to find a way to reach you, but this is the first time I found something. I am so sorry for your loss. I also have a son named John and he was 40 like your John. After 9/11 all of our neighbors were given names of the people in the world trade center to display in our windows. A very close friend of ours receiveds the name of John Fiorito and was shocked. I think of your John often and wonder how the family is doing.
Christine Campbell
January 16, 2003
Happy Birthday John
Aimee Carano Fass
November 15, 2002
John you are so missed. You've been a very special person and maybe you remember we met when you were a little boy on Elizabeth Street. Your mom and I were high school buddies.
You and your family will always be in our prayers.
Your Mom was always proud of you and your brother Joe.
Christine Campbell
September 14, 2002
I continue to pray for John and his family. Reading the memorial in the Columbia College Today website touched me so. What a devoted husband and father John was. This doesn't surprise me as he was a great guy with a great personality. It was in this memorial that I learned John was involved with the Make a Wish Foundation and the family asked that donations be sent to:
John B. Fiorito '82
Make a Wish Foundation of Connecticut
940 White Plains Road
Trumbull, CT 06611
Ellen Landry
September 13, 2002
Dear Mrs.Fiorito and son,
I wish I could take the pain away.After 9/11, St. Francis Church's confirmation class had a memorial to the victims, I, having donated, receive a momento of praying hands with your husband's name, which I placed on our Christmas tree. During the summer I received my St. Elizabeth's Alumna booklet which included John's name on the memorial page. I was so taken back that there was this connection with the College of Saint Elizabeth. I had graduated from there in 68.
My heart goes out to you and John's family. If there is any charity or fund for little johnny I would like to help. John's praying hands will always be in our home.
Ellen Geruch Landry
Naugatuck, Connecticut
Margaret Ponte
September 12, 2002
I met John when I was 14 or 15 in Long Beach, we became friends, and our families became friends also. I saw him for a while when I lived in brooklyn, and he even came to my sweet 16, we knew some of the same people I would often ask how he was doing and how his family was. I was devastated to hear John also knew him as John figs, worked in Cantor. I pray for John and his family all the time. When I heard his name on the Memorial it took my breath away. I will always keep him,his wife, son, and family in my thoughts and my prayers.
Margaret Ponte
John DiPalermo
September 11, 2002
Cousin,
As I wait to hear your name read this morning, I can only hope you are at peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Karen, and Little Johnny. God Bless
. Sas
September 10, 2002
Buddy Boy,
As the first anniversary approaches, I will be thinking of you and your family and reflecting on the past year.
Maria Rachinsky-Wood
September 6, 2002
Dear Mrs. Fiorito,
You don't know me, but I go to TCHS with Joey, and I attended your husband's memorial mass. I remember the priest saying that the next year will be the hardest, and I just wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and your son as the anniversary of 9/11 is approaching. My prayers are with you and your family.
Love, Maria
Cindy Gesualdi
May 9, 2002
On behalf of the nurses on 3N @ WMC,our heart felt sympathy for your loss. John was Little John's hero, and we all saw that every time you were here. God Bless!!
kimberly barger
April 23, 2002
god bless you and keep you always.
i miss you and love you. my prayers go out to karen, lil' john, and your family. k
Dawn Henneberry
March 13, 2002
Karen, Johnny, and family. May your lives go on in peace and wonderfull memories of your husband, friend and father. Just seeing all these notes truley shows how wonderful of a man he was and still is. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
Cathy Cerrato
March 11, 2002
I knew Johnny for 25 years. We met in Long Beach when I was 12 and he was 16 when Johnny and his family used to come out to the beach for the summers. We remained friends ever since. Johnny was one of my very best friends and truly a gentleman in every sense of the word. He was simply "THE BEST", and I miss him very much.
Marijo Conway (Aquino)
January 18, 2002
To Karen, Little Johnny and Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you on the loss of such a wonderful man. I will always remember John's kindness, laughter and smile. He will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers will always be with you.
January 18, 2002
DEAR LORD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON JOHN
FIORITO AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS.GOD
BLESS HIS CHILDREN ESPECIALLY LITTLE
JOHNNY..HIS WIFE AND THE REST OF HIS
FAMILY..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01. GOD TAKE THIS BEAUTIFUL MAN
TO HEAVEN TO WATCH OVER HIS FAMILY.
AMEN...
Michael Sassi
January 16, 2002
Dear Buddy Boy,
Happy birthday Bud! I miss ya alot. I miss talking to you and hearing your sinister laugh. Since we were kids, we have shared so many good and bad times together. I love ya man.
Sas
Chris Campbell
January 16, 2002
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHN
We Will Never Forget
Theresa Marino Leone
January 14, 2002
I went to St. Joseph's School with John when we were kids-we all grew up in the same neighborhood and John was probably the smartest kid in our class. Even though I hadn't seen him in years, I recognized him immediately when I saw the NYTimes article. I was truly saddened to hear that he is gone.
May God bless John and his family.
Rosa Mazzochi/Migliorini
January 3, 2002
To John's family,
I grew up in the same area w/ John (then called "Figs") and I think he went to LaSalle w/ my brother Dominick. He was one of the nicest people I ever met and I remember how really smart he was.
Recently as I walked in front of St. Paul's Church (I work near Ground Zero) I passed a Last Supper plaque with his and Jimmy's name on it and there's not a time that I don't pass that Church now and pray for them, though I don't see the plaque there any more.
My sincerest condolences to his family.
Teresa Jahn
January 2, 2002
What a warm, caring and inspiring smile John has in the picture you have shared with us. A smile like that must be a reflection of his heart. We are deeply sorry for your loss of John. May his smile, life and love live on in those who love him. May you always feel the warmth of his love penetrate into your hearts. We will keep your family and little Johnny's health in our prayers. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of John.
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
Deborah Christensen
January 1, 2002
I, too, received a MercyBand with John's name on it. Living so far from the site of the disaster there was so little I could do, but John's family is on my heart every day. I'm deeply touched by what everyone has written. Jesus gives us courage, strength and hope when we look to Him. I will keep all in prayer.
Bill LaVasseur
December 29, 2001
I went to high school with John and we stayed in contact for a short time after graduating. John was a good man who would always lend a hand when needed. I remember John's smile and from the photos, he still had it. My sincere condolences to his family and I pray all of you are well.
Bob Uzzilio
December 7, 2001
You, Karen and Johnnie will always be part of me, John, in life and in death - forever! The thought of you brings courage and joy to me and many others every day. "Doc" and Sarah love you so very much.
Marlene Zagar
December 3, 2001
My deepest sympathy to John Fiorito's family. I received my mercy band with John's name on it. I will pray for his family daily. God Bless the Fiorito family.
John Schutty
November 30, 2001
I had the great pleasure of attending Columbia College with both John and his older brother, Joe. I am so grateful for that experience because the Fiorito brothers proved to be two of the top "gentlemen" that I have ever met in my life. Honest, loyal and eternally devoted to his family, John will be truly missed. My best wishes, especially, to John's Mom as I know just how much they loved one another.
John DiPalermo
November 27, 2001
I just got this photo via e-mail from Chris
elfe cimicata
November 13, 2001
Andrea Rizzo and family of John ... You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Your loss has touched all of our lives.
Lisa Baratta
October 16, 2001
May God Bless You John
And Keep Your Family Safe
We Both Went To The Same Grade
School & A Nicer Smarter Guy You
Could Not Find
Karen Neary
October 2, 2001
To all of the family of John Fiorito
I am truly sorry for the loss of you loved one. I also feel the pain
and sorrow for all that was hurt by this horrible act. I send my Prayers to God everyday for all the people that suffered and their families too. "God Bless You"
Marilyn Belmont
October 1, 2001
To the family of John Fiorito I feel your loss. I hope the prayers of my family can ease your pain. John was an especially nice person and his loss puts a hole in the lives of everyone
Maria Vesce
October 1, 2001
God bless John and all of those who were senselessly taken from us.
We shall never forget....
Judy Vlcek
September 29, 2001
I didn't know him but I am sure he was a wonderful person like his cousin John.
Claire & George Langevin
September 28, 2001
What a great young man he was. Our sympathy goes out to his family and friends. Our prayers are with you.
Marvin
September 28, 2001
I'm so sorry that one of such a special family is gone. My thoughts and prayers are with you all and with the nation and world in this terrible time of tribulation.
Brian A. Hopkins
September 28, 2001
America will never forget.
With thoughts and prayers for the family,
Brian A. Hopkins (a friend of John DiPalermo's)
Shirley Ouw
September 27, 2001
My deepest condolences to all of the family. I shall never forget you.
Christopher Meinhardt
September 27, 2001
Would that I could bear some of the loss that John's family and friends feel. My thoughts are with you all.
John Fiorito
John DiPalermo
September 27, 2001
Here is a Photo of John Fiorito. We will never forget you!
Karen Connell
September 25, 2001
My thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to the entire family. God bless.
John DiPalermo
September 25, 2001
John, my cousin, my friend. I hope you are at peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Barbara Bolin
September 23, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
JOHN MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
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