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Christopher Quackenbush
Christopher Quackenbush
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Christopher Quackenbush Obituary
Most people think of "A Christmas Carol," the Charles Dickens classic, only during the holidays. But the tale of greed and redemption was on Christopher Quackenbush's mind his entire life.
As a founding principal at Sandler O'Neill & Partners, Mr. Quackenbush, 44, thrived on sharing his wealth. He created the Jacob Marley Foundation, which provides scholarships and programs for poor children on Long Island, including annual trips to Shea Stadium for Mets games. The Mets themselves once played Tiny Tim to Mr. Quackenbush's Scrooge: he flew some team members to Washington on his company jet last June to meet President Bush.
In keeping with the story that haunted him, Mr. Quackenbush's generosity peaked at Christmas. "He would give us all a trip somewhere," his sister, Gail, said. "A ticket to whatever we really wanted to do."
Not only that, but Mr. Quackenbush took his wife, Traci, their three children and a throng of relatives to see "A Christmas Carol" at Madison Square Garden every December, reminding them not only of the importance of spreading good fortune, but of having fun doing it. They have resolved to go without him this year. "We're not going to have a good time," Gail Quackenbush said, "but we're trying."
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 8, 2001.
QUACKENBUSH - Christopher. The entire NYU Law School family mourns the loss of our trustee and friend, Chris Quackenbush, a victim of the World Trade Center tragedy. Chris was a special person who combined high values with the ability to inspire others to act for the good. He was a wise businessman and counselor to the great; but still more, he was an example of the finest qualities a person can possess. Even as we use him as a model for our students, we mourn his loss and dedicate ourselves to keeping his spirit alive. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with his wife (Traci), his children (Whitney, C.J., Kelsey) and his entire family. Lester Pollack, Chair John Sexton, Dean New York University School of Law
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Linda Hoffman
September 18, 2024
Never Met But Always Remembered ❤ Some years ago I read about the staggering Losses suffered at Sandler and was drawn to the stories in particular about what a Wonderful, Caring and Generous person Christopher Quackenbush was, and how many loved and missed him. From so much Loss I try each Year to learn about and Honor just a few Heroes that I hadn’t known about before - my way of Remembering because I can’t know about them All. Chris became someone easy to Remember and Honor every year and always. ❤ Linda
Jayne Jordan
September 11, 2023
Remembering Christopher and all the others lost on that sad, sad day.
Joan Noeldechen
March 18, 2023
Chris was a friend, but his father was my saving grace in 1963.
Margaret Miller
September 11, 2020
Truly one of the good guys. Such a loss. I think of him often, especially today.
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Dana Page
September 11, 2020
Chris was a true New Yorker indeed. He loved his NY Giants football team and everything New York. He followed his older brother to UNC-CH in the 1970's. I can still remember his long curly hair out of control waving in the wind. He loved his older brother and followed him everywhere. I only regret I never hard a real conversation with him in our dorm Stacy. He seems to have really blossomed after college graduation. I am glad he developed into a fine business guy and a good father. I only wish I could have that conversation with him today but that will not happen until later. Sorry for your loss Quackenbush clan I know loss of family members all too well. I share your grief and try to soldier on. I will reach out to my living family members and have that conversation that Chris and I never had. Visit me in Facebook at Dana Page in Wilmington NC to see my story.
Diane
September 11, 2020
Always remembered.
Rosalie Amabile
September 10, 2020
Chris was extremely intelligent and a very nice person. I knew him when he worked at Skadden Arps.
S.J. Friscia III
January 19, 2020
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Frank Newman
September 12, 2019
Christopher was a decent kind hearted sort. I am glad he married and had a family. Marriage was far from our minds at Carolina as undergraduate students. I met my wife at Carolina in 1977 and have been married forty 41 years. I often wondered what happened to Chris Quakenbush. If not for 9/11 I would never have known what Christopher did with his short life. Chris lived in Stacy Dorm a male dorm now a female dorm. I often wonder what happened to the other 100 males who lived in Stacy. I know what happened with a few of the residents of Stacy. Unfortunately the only place I see the Stacy 100 from the 70's is in the obits in the Carolina alumni magazine published every other month. Christopher rest in peace my old N.Y. Giants fan and may your children work hard to make you proud. Tar Heel born and Tar Heel bred and when we are dead we are Tar Heels dead. Christopher was not born a Tar Heel but he earned the Tar Heel title with his life after graduation from Carolia.
Jayne Jordan
September 11, 2019
Remembering your family, all those lost on 9/11, all who grieve and all those suffering or lost from 9/11 related illness and war.
The Lucas Family
July 3, 2019
Sending our continued sincere condolences to your family. Always may God give the help needed. Chris is still dearly missed and will always be remembered. May the time come when these acts of violence are ended because of the heartache caused.
Dana Page
January 7, 2018
Chris loved his pick up basketball games in Woolen Gym the home of the 1957 NCAA champ Tar Heels who beat Wilt Chamberlain 's Kansas team in three over times. Chris lived in Stacy Dorm as did I for three years. Chris loved to follow all Tar Heels sports as we all did. I remember Chris with a bit more blonde cur!y hair than this photo but it was the 70's afterall. I can still remember playing basketball in Woolen in intramurals and walking the short distance back to Stacy with Chris and the Stacy gym rats. Our intramural basketball team would lose to the football team and our softball team would lose to the basketball team. Chris was a tremendous competitor in sports and his later life as I have learned from legacy. I wish he could have visited me at the "beach" in my adopted (35years) home town of Wilmington NC. Words cannot expression a loss as losing Chris. I am pushed to live my life fuller in memory of Chris.
Dana Page, COO, Port City Diagnostics
Stacy VP and Dorm Social Chairman 73-77
Joe Ingargiola
January 5, 2018
My belated condolences to Chris' family. For so long I never knew he was a victim of this tragedy. I hadn't seen his freckly face for so many years I could hardly recognize the photo. We went to the Fifth Avenue School together and his dad was our family doctor for many years. I am not surprised he found success in business. He was always one of Mr. (Pit) Shultz's squad leaders. He was more fleet of foot than me. I recall he would usually get my flag in football, yet I would rarely get his. May he rest in peace. Joe Ingargiola
Laura Siebert
December 17, 2017
I was a recent visitor to New York from Wisconsin. My husband and I were very moved at the memorial, and I happened to take a photo of Mr. Quackenbush's name. I am so sorry for your loss as well as the many others. Much love to you and your family this Christmas.
The Siebert Family
Jayne Jordan
September 12, 2017
Grace and peace to your family. Grace and peace to all who lost loved ones. Grace and peace to those still suffering the effects of that horrible day. And grace and peace to those lost.
Jayne Jordan and Cody Gillen,
formerly of NYC, now Raleigh, NC
Paul Keefe
March 8, 2017
I met Chris in the 1980s in Toronto when I did a deal with him. He was an incredible professional. I remember his voice so well. I hear it often especially when I think of the anguish he must have felt being trapped on the 104 floor. I visited the memorial museum today and found his name on the memorial. It was a special moment and I felt the connection. Rest In Peace my friend. I pray for you and your family
Dana Page
September 12, 2016
I think of Chris every time 9/11 is mentioned. Chris was so full of life and energy. I am so glad he met some one to share his life with and have children with. My children are my joy as I am sure Chris's were. May we all work on good deeds as a remembrance of Chris my long (40 years+) ago friend at Carolina and Stacy dorm. Rest in peace.
Dana Page
September 12, 2016
I think of Chris every time 9/11 is mentioned. Chris was so full of life and energy. I am so glad he met some one to share his life with and have children with. My children are my joy as I am sure Chris's were. May we all work on good deeds as a remembrance of Chris my long (40 years+) ago friend at Carolina and Stacy dorm. Rest in peace.
September 11, 2016
Our church today provided a bowl at the altar that contained the names of all the victims of the September 11th tragedy. Each person in the congregation randomly chose one of those names to remember and pray for. I chose Mr. Quackenbush's name. I found your beautiful family on Google. I pray that you have found peace in the memories that you have of him. I am so sorry for your loss and for that horrible day. Linda in Maryland
Jayne Jordan
September 11, 2016
No matter how many years pass, you, your family, all those lost and their families will be in our hearts and prayers. Grace and peace to you all.
Jayne Jordan and Cody Gillen
Maureen Armata
September 11, 2016
RIP 2016
Debbie Feeks
September 11, 2016
Dear Traci, Whitney, CJ and Kelsey - thoughts, love and prayers go out to you on this 15 year anniversary. It feels like only yesterday this tragic event happened. Know that Chris/Dad is looking down on you. He is so proud of the accomplishments and individuals each of you have become. Love, Debbie
Dana Page
October 30, 2013
I am sorry I never saw Chris after graduation from Carolina. I hope his family is doing well and my prayers are with them. I remember Chris and his brother as college students at Carolina. Chris and his brother were big Giants football fans. Chris was an inspiration to us all.
Jayne Jordan
September 12, 2013
Like many others, we were touched by Christopher, though we never met. We pray for grace and peace for his loved ones as another anniversary passes.
Jayne Jordan & Cody Gillen
September 12, 2013
Miss you Christopher.
Kerry Jones
September 11, 2013
At the 9/11 Memorial ride I was honored to ride in Christopher's name. I found this tribute to him, and learned a little about him. You are not forgotten, and I pray that your friends and family receive God's comfort.
September 11, 2013
You will never be forgotten.
cindy nelso
September 11, 2013
Chris, on this day, you are remembered. Your smile and friendly personality remain with all who know and love you...Peace and love....
Astrid Mathoi
June 15, 2013
Many years ago I met a wonderful family that made a lasting impression on me. I was working as a nanny and became friends with Chris and Traci's nanny. Also the children were friends and we were invited to their house many times. The Q's were the kindest and nicest people, at their house I never felt treated like a servant but like a friend. Traci and the kids even had a cake for my 19th. After returning to Europe to attend university I lost contact. 9/11 came as a shock but only a few years later I found out by chance that Chris was amongst the victims. I was in shock for days. My thoughts are with the Quackenbush family often and I am thankful for having met such a wonderful and inspiring person like Christopher Quackenbush.
Jayne Jordan
September 14, 2012
Eleven years can seem like yesterday. My son Cody and I keep you all in our prayers.
Rosa Maldonado
September 11, 2012
Remembering you today, prayers to your family on this day
Christoper Quackenbush
September 8, 2012
Molly Henick
January 25, 2012
My Aunt Ann Stokes went to church with Christopher. He was very kind to her and would stop and chat with her after services.
She is now 85 and still remembers him fondly. Ann this morning said what a "fine young man he was, such a loss"
James Verdier
December 27, 2011
Dear cousin,Rest in peace
Gail Quackenbush
September 12, 2011
Thanks for all of the kind words and thoughts :)
Jayne Jordan
September 12, 2011
I watched the 2011 remembrances yesterday once again and my heart broke once again. I worked in downtown Manhattan on that terrible day 10 years ago and watched in horror as so many were lost. I listen to those names and hear the families and friends speak of their loved ones and it becomes that day once again. But at the same time, the faces have changed. They bear the same grief, the loss is still felt so deeply, but there also seems to be a feeling of hope and strength, most especially in the young. I always listen in particular for the name of Christopher Quackenbush because your family has had a special place for me and my son. For several years my son, Cody Gillen, was a recipient of the Christopher Quackenbush Memorial Scholarship at UNC Chapel Hill before his graduation in 2008. We were both so grateful for the financial help and perhaps the acknowledgement of our circumstances (my son and I lost his dad and brother when Cody was six). We also became aware of what an honor this was after reading about Christopher. I was so moved recently by an article I read about Christopher's son C.J. and a friend of his, both of whom lost their fathers to terrorism, both of whom find healing in their shared loss. I was delighted to read that C.J. is a sophomore now at UNC. My son is currently working as a research assistant at the UNC campus hospital. I hope they can meet one day.
It seems Chris watched over many in his life. And it seems he does still. May God watch over you all.
Chris Majtan
September 12, 2011
Thank you everyone for the kind words, this past 11th was very emotionally charged with the memorial opening. We all still talk about, and miss him - every day. I take his memory as a lasting gift and tribute to someone who rose taller than those two towers ever could have risen. We gathered as a family at the Gilgo house this Sunday and enjoyed that lasting gift until his sweet embrace carried us to bed. Thank you all so much.
David Olsher
September 12, 2011
Hello. My name is David, formerly of NJ, currently living in Orlando, FL. Yesterday's 10th anniversary 9/11 memorial here featured a field of flags, one with each victim's name on it. The attendees were encouraged take some home at random, display them, and let the families know we did just that. I want you to know one of the ones I happened to pick was Chris'. A memorial flag with his name on it is perched in the clubhouse of my complex here in Orlando. I'm glad I found this guest book on the Internet to let you know this. G-d bless you.
W Pupa
September 12, 2011
Baby Quack, I hope you make many grand slams! Hope to play with you again when it's my time-W. Pupa
Margaret Miller
September 11, 2011
I knew Chris well at Carolina. He was a wonderful person as well as being devoted to a girlfriend back home, so we never actually dated. We hung out. I'd do his laundry then he'd take me out for a 'nice' dinner, which were few and far between. He was always there when I needed him, and hugged me and held me during some pretty tough times. I am blessed and honored to have known him. He made my world and the world in general a better place. I wish I'd had the chance to say goodbye.
John "Scoop" Cerabino
September 11, 2011
Remembering you today and the good times we shared. My prayers and thoughts are with your family always.
Joanne Platt
September 11, 2011
Chris was my friend Gail's brother. He was closest to us in age and of course, all Gail's friends had a huge crush on him as we grew up.
Chris left a vast inheritance--and I do not mean money. His empathy towards others, his altruism, and his positive attitude in finding the best in people were hallmarks of his personality and spoke volumes about his character. We should all take a page from his extraordinary life and discover the joy and satisfaction of passing these same gifts on to all we meet and love. A smarter or kinder man never graced this earth. I can still hear you laugh, Chris. I remember you today and always.
Will LaFramboise
September 11, 2011
Chris you are thought of often, too good of a person to fall the way you did. R.I.P. God bless your family.
Diane Erdmann
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you today, Chris, and remembering your warm smile and how you touched so many lives with your generous spirit. Sending peace to all your loved ones: family, friends, co-workers, and classmates. You are missed by so many and will remain forever in our hearts.
Lynn
September 11, 2011
Gone but never forgotten. Forever in our hearts.
Jeffrey Bernius
September 11, 2011
Sir, I will always remember you as a wonderful family man, a true gentleman and a positive force in the lives of so many. May You Rest In Peace.
John Czerniak
September 10, 2011
You will remain in all of our hearts forever Chris.
Laurie Addeo
September 10, 2011
Chris lit up the lives of many children through the years. His heart was open a life lesson on how to live life..
Gordon Thomas
September 10, 2011
Chris you will never be forgotten!!!
R.I.P.
PEACE & LOVE...
Judy Ferriter
September 10, 2011
I went to school with Chris at Bay Shore High School and remember him well. He was so good-hearted. Rest in peace in Heaven, Chris.
Carol Shafran
September 9, 2011
Rest In Peace Chris ...
Rosa Maldonado
September 8, 2011
In 2002, as I was signing paperwork on the purchase of a 1998 Corvette, I was told it belonged to a person who lost their life during the 9/11 attacks. About a year later, I found under the seat an insurance card with the name of Christopher Quackenbush. It was not until I was watching a tribute to the 9/11 victims, when I saw a small video clip of a funeral and the name of Christopher Quackenbush was on the screen, that the story became reality. I was raised in New York, and the way this all came about, it was just meant to be. I now have a token of one of our heroes. My regards and love to all his family.
Rebecca Walters
August 28, 2011
I have started a facebook memorial page, called "Remember Me". Each member who joins, receives the name of someone who died on 9/11. I have just given a member, Christopher's name. Please know that your loved one is not forgotten and prayed for.
CATHERINE BARLICK
July 30, 2011
I have known him since he was a kid through my long-time girlfriend,DIANE
and their family. Her brother, CHRISTOPHER was a gentleman with his nice
smile. I watched him played his baseball league game with his mother and DIANE,
too. I missed him.It is so sad.His father, ARTHUR was my family doctor.
MAY GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY.
LOVE FROM,
CATHERINE AND ROBERT BARLICK
JULY 30, 2011
Hopelessly Lost
March 18, 2011
I love you as much today as I did the day you tried to get me to high five you from 3 ft off the ground. You tall oaf you.. damn this all. damn it. I miss you so much I never said goodbye.
Sue
July 24, 2010
I was two years younger than Chris, and remember seeing him play basketball in the Bay Shore Middle School--his face had not changed one bit from the picture here. My sincerest condolences to his wife, Traci, and children. God Bless you all.
Jayne Jordan
September 11, 2009
Another year passes, but the sadness of all those lost remains. May God bless your family with peace, grace and loving memories.
Cody Gillen & Jayne Jordan
Terry Quakenbush
September 11, 2009
My son Brady, 13, found Christopher's name while researching the 9/11 attacks at school. Obviously we feel a bond with the same/similar name. Our prayers are with with you each and every day!
Doug Abraham
January 5, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
kate lenoir
September 30, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. My Brother and you Chris work together at sander o neil. My brother name was Rob Lenoir.
Kate lenoir
Jayne Jordan
September 12, 2008
I was watching the service while working yesterday and I believe I saw Christopher's son reading the names and mentioning his father. It was very touching. As always, you are all in our prayers.
Cody Gillen and Jayne Jordan
Just another sad American
September 11, 2008
I was drawn to your unusual name and am saddened to see what a fine person we lost on that terrible day. The world needs more people like Christopher Quackenbush. I hope your family is somehow comforted on this 7th anniversary. We will never forget you.
Lynn Schlobohm
September 11, 2008
On the seventh anniversay - I wish your family comfort, and remember your ready smile, gentle kindness and sweet nature. You are truly missed by all whose lives you touched. class 1975
Doug Abraham
January 5, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Chris at West Gilgo Beach
September 16, 2007
JOAN JORDAN, MCGUIRE
September 11, 2007
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS
THINK OF YOU ALL OFTEN
JOAN JORDAY, MCGUIRE
September 11, 2007
I WAS A FRIEND AND NEIGHBOR OF THE QUCAKENBUSH. KNEW CHRIS AS A BOY. MOTHER JUDY WAS MY NEIGHBOR AND WE SHARED MANY MEMORIES. DAD WAS MY DR. FOR MANY MANY YEARS. MISS THEM. JOAN JORDAN, MCGUIRE.
September 11, 2007
To Chris,Gail and family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Eric, family and MIT Staff
Jayne Jordan
September 11, 2007
On this 6th Anniversary, we pray for your family and all those who suffered such terrible losses on that day.
Cody Gillen and Jayne Jordan
Michael Quackenbush
April 24, 2007
Chris was the best. Thanks for all your kind words and remembrances. I've set up a small website with some photos. www.christopherquackenbush.com
His brother Michael
Kristine
March 5, 2007
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
February 6, 2007
In memory....
Doug Abraham
January 30, 2007
Happy Belated Birthday!!!
Carla Kwakkenbos
September 12, 2006
My sincere condolances. Know it has been 5 years, but found this site today and I have a feeling, somehow we're family.
Bonny Hirsh
September 12, 2006
Traci, You do not know me and Chris may even be surprised I remember him as I knew him a long time ago in high school...I lived in Brightwaters. I thought I had heard Chris' name about a year ago in a documentary I had been watching on 9/11 and it stayed with me. As you already know, and I see others from his high school days share similar thoughts, Chris always made quite an impression. The entries on this website reinforce something you and your family already know - what a wonderful man he must have become. My thoughts to you and your family...
Trisch Cavaliere-Van Beveren
September 11, 2006
Dear Gail,
Please know that we will always think of you and your family on this day. Much love and peace to you from your "Northern" friends in Chapel Hill, NC.
Trisch, Luke and Emma
Debbie Jacobsen
July 3, 2006
I lived down the road, West Lane, when we were kids. I didn't know about Chris' death until today. Please accept my deepest sympathies
Joan Noeldechen
April 12, 2006
I knew Chris when we were children. His father had saved my life as an infant and I had some contact with Chris and Gail early on. Chris was the kindest boy I ever knew.
Blessings to the Quackenbush family.
Childhood Remembered
Out of thousands of faces
I saw yours -
a Long Island doctor’s son -
and remembered how
joyfully you leaned
into your bike
during a long,
bright summer day
and how your
lively sister's
laughter bounced
off the water:
golden children
with good
hearts altered
on a September
Tuesday morning.
Jayne Jordan
September 30, 2005
My son, Cody Gillen, a student at UNC Chapel Hill, was honored to receive the Christopher Quackenbush Memorial Scholarship Award. When we researched Mr. Quackenbush, we truly realized what an honor this was. We are saddened at the loss to his family and friends of such a wonderful and compassionate man. Cody and I lost his father and older brother some years ago. The pain of losing those we love is dreadful. But Christopher Quackenbush lives on in all those lives he once touched and continues to touch. We pray that God blesses his family and friends and keeps them in his care.
ROSA AND RICHARD MALDONADO
September 11, 2005
WE FEEL WE HAVE A SPECIAL CONNECTION WITH YOU AND OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH ON THIS SPECIAL DAY 9-11-2005
Randy Ross
October 31, 2001
Dear Traci, Although it has been several years since I last saw Chris and even longer since I last saw you, I was devastated to hear of Chris' loss. My thoughts have been with you and your family and I wish you all strength during this difficult and tragic time. Randy Ross (Bay Shore High Class of '75)
Brian Callahan
October 29, 2001
Traci, Whitney, C.J., and Kelsey;
The thoughts and prayers of the Buffin, Callahan and Fussell families are with you at this time. Be safe, and see you next summer at W.G.B.
maureen kessler
October 16, 2001
Chris was a member of my church, The Congregational Church of Manhasset. He was a true power of example in every sense of the word. I have dedicated my ministry at The Nassau County Correctional Center and The Juvenile Detention Center to his memory. I send my sincere condolences to his wife Traci and their three wonderful children. Chris, have fun in Heaven. I know that perpetual light will always shine upon you. With love, Maureen Kessler
Randy Quackenbush
September 28, 2001
Growing up with the last name of Quackenbush can be a great challenge! From reading the comments from the NYU Law School, it is clear that Chris was a great man who gave honor to the Quackenbush name. The Quackenbush family in Springfield, MO. is praying that God will comfort and strengthen your family each and every day. May you receive great hope and peace, that transcends understanding.
Our prayers are with you!
Randy and Shelly Quackenbush
Elise, Lauren and Aubrey Rose
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