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Douglas Frank DiStefano
Douglas Frank DiStefano
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Douglas DiStefano Obituary
Things were beginning to click for Douglas DiStefano.
He had been working as a trader trainee at Prebon Energy in Jersey City, a job he got with the help of his brother David, who worked there. It was not high pay as yet, so he also tended bar at Hobson's Bar and Grill in Hoboken, where he lived.
There he met Robert Wayne Hobson, who had quit his stockbroker's job to start Hobson's but had returned to Wall Street in 1999 and was working at Cantor Fitzgerald. He helped Mr. DiStefano become a commodities broker there. Mr. DiStefano, 24, began in August, and had not even cashed his second paycheck by Sept. 11. Mr. Hobson, too, perished in the attack.
Mr. DiStefano felt the World Trade Center was the best address in the world, and it was proving an effective lure for women. "He said it worked much better on the girls," David DiStefano said. "Saying 'I work in Jersey City' didn't go over as well as 'I work at the top of the World Trade Center.'"
One thing Douglas DiStefano had always been really proud of was his high school football team in West Islip — he was an offensive lineman — winning the Long Island championship. He became equally thrilled about the Cantor job. He was talking about getting a new apartment, buying a car. "The toughest part is he was just turning the corner," his brother said. "He was just making it."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sam Hutchings
September 11, 2024
Sam Hutchings
September 11, 2024
Sam Hutchings
September 11, 2024
I came across Doug's name at the Utah Healing Field in Sandy, UT today. A flag was set up in his name.
Tanya Hastings
September 11, 2024
Thinking of you. God bless you and your family. I know you’re watching over them.
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Angela G
September 11, 2024
You taught me how to drive in your jeep - our AOL convos about how much you loved college and how different gettysburg was from West Islip. I can still picture the beautiful flowers you left for me on my porch before you left for Hoboken the first time - you were a kind amazing person and I still miss you
Kate Winseck
September 11, 2024
I am thinking of you and your family today Doug. I will never forget.
Kate Winseck
September 11, 2023
I'm thinking of you as always today Doug.
Tanya Hastings
September 10, 2023
I’m thinking about you Doug. I can still see your face so clearly
Cara
June 2, 2023
Happy heavenly birthday! Hope you are enjoying your special day, you seemed like an amazing young man, and I am so so sorry for what happened to you. All my love to Douglas's friends and family, please know he is never forgotten. <3
Kate Winseck
September 11, 2022
I´m thinking of you today Doug. Every 9/11, throughout the day, memories of you pop into my head. I don´t have many from our college years together but they are so sweet and strong. I hope you´re at peace today.
Kate Winseck
Tanya Hastings
September 11, 2022
Thinking of you. I will never forget.
Jan Nethery
September 11, 2021
Thinking of you and your family today, Doug. I never had the pleasure of meeting you, but I've corresponded with your mom through the years, and I know you were much loved by so many. Praying for each of you who love Doug, especially for his beloved mom, Sharon. May the Lord give you comfort today in knowing that there is a whole nation (and beyond) who truly care about you all.
Bobby Vecchione
September 11, 2021
Doug,
Thinking of you today on the 20th anniversary of 9/11. We grew up on the same block and would hangout often as kids, you were a great guy as well as smart and Intelligent. Thoughts to the family.
Tanya Hastings
September 8, 2021
I’m thinking of you and continue to hold onto your memory with great respect.
Cindy Roe
September 7, 2021
Remembering Douglas on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Michael Kinney
September 12, 2020
Dougie , just wanted to say you are still missed and thought of often. My memories of playing football at 9 or 10 yrs old with you all the way through senior year still bring a smile to my face. Looking at you in the huddle always gave me a sense of calmness. We won a lot and wished you had more time to continue winning in life . See you again,
Forever your quarterback!
Tanya Hastings
September 11, 2020
Hi Doug,
This year went by so fast, it's a big blura reminder of how being present is so important because you never know what life can and will bring. The world could use that genuine kindness of yours right now you were pretty special. Until next year.
Tanya
The Kindred Family
January 10, 2020
Our sincerest heartfelt condolences we send to your family. With each new day may God continue to give his comfort and support. Douglas is very sadly missed beyond that tragic day that has caused so much heartache but he always will be remembered with love.
Barbara Morrisey
September 11, 2019
Its been 18 years and the images are imprinted in my head like it was yesterday. Last night I went through my 9-11 box, newspapers, tape from CNN when I worked that day and night,, magazines and than a paper clipping of your obituary. Things I didnt even remember keeping. You are always in our thoughts ! I will never forget!
Kate Winseck
September 11, 2019
I'm thinking of you today Doug. We will never forget you. You made the world, at least our world at Gettysburg, better.
September 11, 2019
hi Doug 18th
m. di-Stefano
Tanya Hastings
September 10, 2019
Your name and your legacy live on in more hearts than you could ever imagine. I am thinking of you and your family. 18 years and it still seems like it was yesterday...
Sharon DiStefano
September 12, 2018
September 9th 2001 was the last hug you gave me. September 10th 2001 was the last time I heard your voice. I cling to those memories. On the day, you got up late. You ran to catch your train. David saw you. The last time any of us saw you. You forgot your phone in your hurry to get to work. A Blessing? A Curse? I still can't answer that question. Today, I start my healing process all over again. I get 364 days. Then, I go back to that day, those last precious memories. And my heart can't ever heal.
September 11, 2018
hi Doug -17th -
Justin Ruffner
September 11, 2018
17 years later, Im thinking about Doug and his family. God bless you all.
Tanya Hastings
September 11, 2018
Today, on this Tuesday 9/11 morning, you are on the forefront of my mind. I honor your name and will remember you always. I visited the 9/11 memorial and museum for the first time last March. I walked passively to one of the two fountains silently paying my respect when I looked down at the wall and your name was staring back at me. Coincidence or not, that was a very poignant experience. I hope your family is doing well. I will never forget you.
Frank Esposito
June 18, 2018
Though I didn't know Doug very well, I too was just starting a new venture in Hoboken. I actually found Doug through an add in the online apartment finder and was looking to move in with others in Hoboken like so many, young and broke people do. I met with Doug and immediately hit it off. We had a few beers at Hobsons to chat and decide whether we would be good roomates. It turns out we had much in common and decided that I would move in to replace one of his other roomates. We met again and kept in touch for a week or so when we met again and I gave Doug a deposit check to move in. I was stoked since I had just moved back from Atlanta ready to start a new job in NYC.
Then 9-11 came. Information wasn't easily available at the time, so I tried my best to find out if Doug was ok. I tried calling his phone but there was no answer. I thought, maybe he disconnected is line and was traumatised and prayed for the best. There was a third roomate, a female whose name I don't remember who I couldn't contact either. I continued to see if my check cashed, hoping that it was a positive sign that Doug was still with us.
I have carried this story with me for years, never able to express my sorrow for Doug and his family for their loss. I always wonder, how would life have been different if not for this tragic event. I may have become best friends with Doug and still have a lasting friendship with him today. Ultimately, I never moved to Hoboken at that time, opting to live with my parents in Westchester and commuting the NY. I often think about you Doug even though we really didn't know each other well. To your family, even now so many years later, this is a story that you may not have known. In the brief few hours that I spent time with Doug, we laughed like kids and of course checked out the females in the bar while having a beer. I knew he was a solid guy and one to take a chance on being roomates and possibly good friends.
I am so sorry for your loss and hope the memory of Doug lives forever.
Kind Regards,
Frank
Tanya Hastings
September 11, 2017
Thinking of you today. I will never forget.
m di stefano
September 11, 2017
hi Doug..
September 11, 2017
hi Doug
m di Stefano
September 11, 2017
hi Doug..
m di Stefano
Kate (Costella) Winseck
September 11, 2017
Thinking of you today Doug, and your family. So many years, but I still remember you so fondly walking around campus at Gettysburg. A wonderful man like you is never forgotten. My best to your family today.
September 11, 2016
Hi Doug, 15th years........
M di Stefano Italy
Tanya Hastings
September 11, 2016
Your memory, Doug, is very much alive. September 11, 2001, no matter how much time goes by, will always seem like yesterday. I will never forget. Prayers to all,
Tanya
Tanya Hastings
September 12, 2015
Dear Doug and Family,
I am thinking of you, never forgetting you or 9/11/01.
Peacefully,
Tanya
September 11, 2015
Douglas F. DiStefano
How do I make you know Douglas in a few short paragraphs? How do I make you know the friend you might someday have had?
He grew up in West Islip, NY.
He was the Middle Child. A fact he never let me forget.
He played Football for West Islip High School.
He was the Goalie for his High School Lacrosse Team.
He was an excellent skier.
He loved boating on the Great South Bay.
He drove a brand new Red Convertible his Senior Year of High School.
He drove an old black Jeep Cherokee his first year of College!
He was a Caddy.
He was an average student.
He played Freshman Football for Gettysburg College until he blew out his knee.
He played Pool.
He delivered Pizza's.
He drank beer.
He was an ATO Fraternity Brother.
He sold his speakers so he could take a trip to Spain.
He graduated from Gettysburg College.
He moved to Hoboken, NJ.
He has an older brother David that he always looked up to and a younger sister Annie that he always looked out for.
That summer Doug turned 24 on June 2nd. He had been working as a trader trainee at Prebon Energy in Jersey City, a job he got with the help of his brother David, who worked there. It wasn't a high paying job to start, so he also tended bar at Hobson's Bar and Grill in Hoboken at night and on the week-ends. Living in Hoboken was expensive.
There he met Robert Wayne Hobson, who had quit his stockbroker's job to start Hobson's but had returned to Wall Street in 1999 and was working at Cantor Fitzgerald. He helped Doug become a commodities broker there. He began working for Cantor Fitzgerald in August, and had not even cashed his second paycheck by Sept. 11. Wayne Hobson, too, died in the attack.
Douglas believed that working at the World Trade Center was working at the best address in the world, he'd say, " saying I work at the top of the World Trade Center goes over much better on the girls then saying I work in Jersey City!
Douglas had always been really proud of was his high school football team in West Islip he was an offensive lineman when they won the Long Island championship against Garden City.
He was thrilled about the Cantor job. Thrilled about his future.
He was talking about getting a new apartment, buying a car. Beginning his life.
He was dependable. He was determined. He had the greatest smile. He believed in possibilities, hard work, the Good Life- he was as tough as he was soft. He liked to be with family as much as he liked being with friends- he knew how to have a good time. He worried about every one.
He could make you laugh - especially if you were mad at him. He was as good at getting into hot water as he was at getting out of it. He thought he was a chef. He loved chicken cutlets and hated vegetables. He made new friends but kept his friends from High School. He liked music and played video games. He wanted a dog.
On the morning of September 11th, Dave saw Doug running for the Path Train, he was late, he had overslept so he didn't stop to talk to his brother - just yelled he had to make that train. That was the last time any of us saw him. He forgot his cell phone - he was in such a hurry to get to work on time.
He was on the 105th floor of Tower One when the first plane hit. We know because he sent an e-mail saying there was a lot of smoke and he was "getting the hell out of there." But he didn't.
Did I mention - He gave the greatest hugs?
He was a Jet Fan. He was a Met fan. He got beat up at Yankee Stadium for sticking up for a stranger. He was the Best Man at his brother's wedding, but never saw his sister walk down the aisle. His nephew's middle name is Douglas but he never got to meet him.
He saw things as either good or bad - right or wrong - there were no "grey" areas as far as Doug was concerned. He'd give you the shirt off his back or buy you a beer with his last dollar. He liked to exaggerate so I knew after the first few hours that if I hadn't heard the greatest escape story in the world that I wasn't going to hear from him again.
We all miss him very much - each and every day. I hope this letter gives you some insight as to why. He wasn't just somebody's brother or son - he was a great guy who you might have called "friend".
September 11, 2015
9/11
Hy Doug
m di-Stefano
Barbara Morrisey
September 12, 2014
Mrs DiStefano,
Just read the beautiful letter you wrote last year. He is always in our thoughts and know that he is watching over his beautiful family and friends. We will never forget....EVER!
Tanya Hastings
September 12, 2014
Dear Doug, I still remember you like it was yesterday. You made me the best omlet I've ever had. You gave me the shirt off your back when I wasn't unpacked. You welcomed me to Hoboken with Nate. You were real-- honest, kind and generous. For the little time we knew each other, the impression you made on me has lasted 13 years and I can say with certainty that it will last my lifetime. I have shared my memory of you and your story as I know it with many people over the years. People whom you never knew now remember you every year. Your legacy as it's uniquely perceived by each person you touched before or after 9/11 carries on year after year with strength and love. Your Mother's letter below helps the world to know you and makes me wish I knew you more. Thank you Doug. I take comfort in believing you're peaceful presence is upon us.
Your old roommate,
Tanya
September 11, 2014
I just read the letter below about Douglas, written by his Mother. Sharon, you succeeded - as I have a true sense about the person Douglas was, and all he meant to those around him. Mere words cannot erase the grief, nor can the well wishes of strangers possibly fill the void experienced. But I pray this evening, on the 13th anniversary of your darkest day, that God provides you and your family comfort and peace. Lit by the many wonderful memories of your son and the knowledge, he is remembered by so many who now know more about the special person. God bless
September 11, 2014
13th years........
hi Doug
M di Stefano Italy
Marlena Nowaski
September 14, 2013
Sharon, that was so beautifully written. Anyone that had the chance to meet him, are so blessed to have known him. I grew up on Cedar Point, right down the street. I was so lucky to know him thru elementary, middle school and highschool. I stood on the sidelines at football games cheering him on. I remember your family so well. I remember David picking us beer to hang out at the beach fields, I remember Annie singing "The Greatest Love of All" at Bayviews Elementary School Talent Show. I always think of him. He was one amazing man.
Sharon DiStefano
September 13, 2013
I've never written on this before, but I want to thank every one that has. I have something I would like to share with all of you. It's a letter our family wrote:
How do I make you know Douglas in a few short paragraphs? How do I make you know the friend you might someday have had?
He grew up in West Islip, NY.
He was the Middle Child. A fact he never let me forget.
He played Football for West Islip High School.
He was the Goalie for his High School Lacrosse Team.
He was an excellent skier.
He loved boating on the Great South Bay.
He drove a brand new Red Convertible his Senior Year of High School.
He drove an old black Jeep Cherokee his first year of College!
He was a Caddy.
He was an average student.
He played Freshman Football for Gettysburg College until he blew out his knee.
He played Pool.
He delivered Pizza's.
He drank beer.
He was an ATO Fraternity Brother.
He sold his speakers so he could take a trip to Spain.
He graduated from Gettysburg College.
He moved to Hoboken, NJ.
He has an older brother David that he always looked up to and a younger sister Annie that he always looked out for.
That summer Doug turned 24 on June 2nd. He had been working as a trader trainee at Prebon Energy in Jersey City, a job he got with the help of his brother David, who worked there. It wasn't a high paying job to start, so he also tended bar at Hobson's Bar and Grill in Hoboken at night and on the week-ends. Living in Hoboken was expensive.
There he met Robert Wayne Hobson, who had quit his stockbroker's job to start Hobson's but had returned to Wall Street in 1999 and was working at Cantor Fitzgerald. He helped Doug become a commodities broker there. He began working for Cantor Fitzgerald in August, and had not even cashed his second paycheck by Sept. 11. Wayne Hobson, too, died in the attack.
Douglas believed that working at the World Trade Center was working at the best address in the world, he'd say, " saying I work at the top of the World Trade Center goes over much better on the girls then saying I work in Jersey City!”
Douglas had always been really proud of was his high school football team in West Islip — he was an offensive lineman — when they won the Long Island championship against Garden City.
He was thrilled about the Cantor job. Thrilled about his future.
He was talking about getting a new apartment, buying a car. Beginning his life.
He was dependable. He was determined. He had the greatest smile. He believed in possibilities, hard work, the Good Life- he was as tough as he was soft. He liked to be with family as much as he liked being with friends- he knew how to have a good time. He worried about every one.
He could make you laugh - especially if you were mad at him. He was as good at getting into hot water as he was at getting out of it. He thought he was a chef. He loved chicken cutlets and hated vegetables. He made new friends but kept his friends from High School. He liked music and played video games. He wanted a dog.
On the morning of September 11th, Dave saw Doug running for the Path Train, he was late, he had overslept so he didn't stop to talk to his brother - just yelled he had to make that train. That was the last time any of us saw him. He forgot his cell phone - he was in such a hurry to get to work on time.
He was on the 105th floor of Tower One when the first plane hit. We know because he sent an e-mail saying there was a lot of smoke and he was "getting the hell out of there." But he didn't.
Did I mention - He gave the greatest hugs?
He was a Jet Fan. He was a Met fan. He got beat up at Yankee Stadium for sticking up for a stranger. He was the Best Man at his brother's wedding, but never saw his sister walk down the aisle. His nephew's middle name is Douglas but he never got to meet him.
He saw things as either good or bad - right or wrong - there were no "grey" areas as far as Doug was concerned. He'd give you the shirt off his back or buy you a beer with his last dollar. He liked to exaggerate so I knew after the first few hours that if I hadn't heard the “greatest escape” story in the world that I wasn't going to hear from him again.
We all miss him very much - each and every day. I hope this letter gives you some insight as to why. He wasn't just somebody's brother or son - he was a great guy who you might have called "friend".
Tanya Hastings
September 12, 2013
Hi Doug,
I truly believe you are very present with us here. 12 years-it seems very much like yesterday. I remember the day so well but most of all, I remember you with more detail than you would believe. Our few but poignant conversations resonate with me so strongly. You are missed every day and I think about your family and pray that they've been strong, living out the past years with family and friends to guide them in your ever so dignified light.
God bless you,
Tanya Hastings (Schultz)
Marlena Beamer
September 11, 2013
12 years ago you left us. I know you watch up in heaven and we miss you down here. I wonder what you would be doing now, married? Children? On FB loading up tons of photos of your life? Unfortunately, you were taken too soon but I continue to try and honor your memory. Our angel above, watch over us and your family (which I'm sure you do everyday :) )
Evette Ungar
September 11, 2013
Dougie,
I think of you every 9/11 and all the great times we had in DC all of our first few years in college. Your life was cut way too short. You will always be loved and missed.
Love,
Evette
September 10, 2013
Hi Doug, 12th years........
M di Stefano Italy
Jennifer Hawkins
September 12, 2012
I think of you often Dougie, not a day goes by that I don't say a prayer for you and your family...
September 11, 2012
You will never be forgotten.
M. Di Stefano Italy
Kate W.
September 11, 2012
I think of you every 9/11 Doug, and so many days in between. Hope the DiStefano family is able to find peace in happy memories today. Doug was a wonderful person, and his kindness is always what I remember most.
Sal and Valerie Armagno
September 11, 2012
No day shall erase you from the memory of time.
-Valerie and Sal Armagno
Tanya Hastings
September 9, 2012
Dear Doug & Family,
Thinking about you and praying you ALL have peace, comfort & lots of love.
I will never forget.
Love,
Tanya Hastings
Albert DeStefano
September 8, 2012
Coming up on 11 years and it doesn't get any easier. God Bless us all.
Sally Robertson
September 12, 2011
Dearest Annie and family,
My heart goes out to you all as you commemorate Douglas' life. A life cut far too short.
I see a resemblance of Finn in the photo of Douglas which makes me smile and yet makes my heart heavy as I imagine what a wonderful Uncle he would have been.
You and your family are very much in our hearts, thoughts and prayers as you celebrate and honor a brother, son, nephew, cousin and friend.
Thinking of you.
Sally and Oscar
jill mooney- deblanco
September 11, 2011
i have known the distefano family all my life. every 9-11 i think of what a great person douglas was and that its not fair that his life was cut short. distefano family i hope you are in peace now knowing that he is in a good place and he's watching over you all. xoxo
John Koehler
September 11, 2011
I can't believe it's been 10 years now. There's not a day that has gone by in these past 10 years that I haven't thought about you, Doug, and the good times we shared in HS, the summers during college, or the too brief period when we both lived and worked in NJ.
Now and always I wish we had the chance to have more good times together, but I'm thankful I had the opportunity to have you as a friend.
Cinthia Santos
September 11, 2011
My thoughts have been with the DiStefano family these past few days. Though I never met Doug, I remember with you.
Jan Nethery
September 11, 2011
Dear DiStefano Family,
My heart and prayers go out to you especially today as our nation mourns the loss of so many on this 10th anniversary of 9/11...may God comfort you and surround with the love of friends and family as your remember Doug today.
J. Di Stefano
September 11, 2011
I did not know you but I felt we had a connection since we do share the same last name. It makes me wonder if there was some kind of relation since I do have family in New York
Tanya Hastings
September 11, 2011
Doug,
Thinking of you and your family today and remembering you fondly. I will never forget.
Tanya
Mary Di Stefano
September 8, 2011
Today, I donated blood in memory of those lost in 9/11. I picked your name. Sunday will be the 10 year anniversary of 9/11. Seems like yesterday. God bless you, your family,and all who were lost. I'm memory you live on.
Marlena Nowaski Beamer
September 8, 2011
Hard to believe it's been almost 10 years since you have been taken from us. You will never be forgotten.
Christine C.
July 4, 2011
I don't know you at all, but today during the massive July 4th parade in Bristol, RI, I was handed a small American flag with your name written on it.
I looked you up and was pretty amazed to find that you were 24, the same age as I am now. It's really startling and humbling to know that a great life can be cut short so fast; it sounds like you were doing really well for yourself.
I'm preparing to move to New York in August, just approaching ten years to the day, and you can bet that I'll be thinking of you. All the best to you, your family, and friends.
Kris Schragen
September 11, 2010
I don't think I ever even talked to Doug once. Being from a small town, it's pretty sad. I have friends family members that all worked at Cantor as well. It is truly sad to know that Doug didn't get to see some of his dreams come true with age. So young. Even though I didn't know him, my heart goes to his family and being from West Islip, we are family forever. God bless.
Barbara Morrisey
September 11, 2010
You are always a thought in my mind. The last time I had seen you was on the train and we were catching up from the high school days. Heck you were in my prom limo!!!You dated my Best Friend! You will always have a special place in our hearts. Miss you...Barbara Morrisey
Wesley Oakes
September 11, 2010
Doug, we were in the same classes in high school, but ran with different crowds. You never let that stop you from being nice to me. That meant a great deal to me. We all miss you and are better people for having known you.
Wesley
Dan & Kim Stewart
September 11, 2010
Dougie, you will always be in our thoughts and our prayers will always go out to your family. We all know you are watching over us from Heaven!
Love,
Dan and Kim Stewart
Tanya Schultz
September 11, 2010
Dear Doug,
Thinking of you fondly today as you watch over us from a place of comfort and peace. Remembering you reminds me to be thankful, grateful and unselfish, just as you were.
Love,
Tanya
Michelle Butindaro
September 11, 2010
We never really spoke, but we graduated high school together. I am sure you are in a better place watching over your loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with your family today.
September 11, 2010
God Bless you and you will never be forgotten!
Jackie Zabielski
September 11, 2009
Thank you for giving me inspiration, hope and possibility. I know you would have been a huge influence on my young adult life, and even from heaven you have been. Thanks for always smiling down on us.
Thinking of you always.
Tanya Schultz
September 11, 2009
Dear Doug and Family,
It's been eight years to the day, and I still cannot fully comprehend the the tragedies of that Tuesday morning. I recently went back to NYC and visited the 9/11 museum where I saw remnants of the Towers and Cantor Fitzgerald. I envisioned your courage and strength when I looked at the pieces of that day that were close to you. As always I think of you frequently and know that you're looking over all of us, and that you're safe and protected from the uncertainty of this world.
Love,
Tanya
Doug Abraham
June 7, 2009
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Emily Gertmenian
September 15, 2008
Dear Doug,
I have thought of you ever since I found out that you were in those towers 7 years ago. I was only blocks away when it happened. It was such a tragic day. I knew you briefly in college and remember your kind demeanor and how well-liked you were at your fraternity house. I sincerely hope you are at peace now. Please know you are missed and how much sorrow we feel having not been able to save your life and others who met the same fate that day. Love, Emily
Emily DiStefano
September 11, 2008
I think of you all the time and sometimes I have to do a double take because I think I see you around town. I miss you all the time, but especially today. Love,
Raina Rusnak Ferrari
September 11, 2008
Doug,
I'm thinking of you today. I remember you fondly from our days at Gettysburg. We all miss you.
Kate (Costella) Winseck
September 11, 2008
Doug,
I am thinking of you today. Your peaceful nature often brought me calmness when we spent time together, as it does now. You are remembered often, and dearly missed. May your family find solace today.
Tanya Schultz
September 11, 2008
Doug and family,
It seems like just yesterday the day the towers fell. I honor you this week, and remember 9/11 as the end of innocence. I will always know you as a kind, ambitious, generous and courageous man. I wish you ever lasting peace! My love, prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Love,
Tanya
Daniel DiStefano
December 2, 2007
Such a sad day for many on this tradgic day 11th september sorry for your loss our hearts are still here with you even in PERTH WESTERN AUSTRAIA
Arielle Poulos
September 19, 2007
As the middle child you were and still are the center of a family who misses you very much. Thank you for always being a kind a good person. Your sister has grown into one of the kindest people I know and your brand new nephew is adorable and will grow up with only the best stories of his Uncle Doug!
Tanya Schultz
September 11, 2007
Dear Doug,
Thinking of you today, and many, many times throughout the year. I will never forget your presence in my life. I am comforted knowing you are watching over our world in peace and in love.
With love to you and your family today and always,
Tanya Schultz
Bob Meder
March 10, 2007
I was in a lot of the same classes and on the lacrosse team in Junior High with Doug. He was always a really cool guy. I remember he was calm and cool during lacrosse games. You always knew you could count on him to take care of business.
When we got to High School we didn't hang out as much but when we did it was always a good time.
Bye Doug
frank
January 3, 2007
Doug was a freshman when I was a senior at Gettysburg College. He pledged my fraternity and though I didnt know him well I remember his kind smile and demeanor. I think of you often Doug and hope you rest in peace.
Kristine
October 27, 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.
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
October 27, 2006
Very sorry about your loss! Sincere sympathy, Pat - R.N. in TN
P Tabbernor
September 26, 2006
In memory....
Kate Costella
September 11, 2006
I knew Doug from our days at Gettysburg College. Amid a sea of people at the school he always stood out as a caring and generous man. We talked often of our connections to Long Island (my dad grew up down the street from Islip). Doug was deeply proud of where he came from, and always looked forward to the future. I admired him for that.
I think about Doug frequently, especially today, and hope that his family has found this on-line journal, so they are reminded of how loved and missed dear Doug is.
Steve Bishko
September 11, 2006
I was a high school lacrosse teammate of Doug's and was a sophmore when he was a senior. He was one of the only seniors that reached out to the two or three sophmores on the team and made us feel welcome and part of the team. I have and will always have a tremendous respect for Doug for what he did. He touched people in ways he may not have ever known.
Justin Ruffner, DDS
June 7, 2006
I met Doug as freshman at Gettysburg College. We played football together there. I didn't know Doug all that well but I do remember that he was a kind and generous person. I am truly sorry that this happened to him.
Jeremy Gilchrist
June 5, 2006
I didn't know Douglas very well outside of being a fellow member of West Islip's class of 1995. With that said I too would like to express my deepest of sympathies to his family and friends. Humanity is capable of such terrible deeds, yet at the same time it is able to manifest great love and hope. It is that which I know will prevail in the end. It has to, for hatred is weak against a force of that magnitude. May peace and the power to dream return to the hearts of all humankind.
Nate Greiner
September 11, 2005
Doug,
My thoughts are with you on the four year anniversary of September 11. During our short time together as roommates in Hoboken, I will never forget your generosity, kindness, and enthusiastic zest for life. We shared some adventurous times: bar hopping, late-night pizzas, epic Madden battles, etc.. Wherever you are these days, I have no doubt that you are making people smile and feel special about themselves.
Peace,
Nate
Tanya Schultz
September 11, 2004
Dear Doug,
Although I only knew you for a short while, as my roommate you were kind, thoughtful, considerate and selfless. I could tell from the beginnnig how giving and sincere you were. You always made me feel welcome and comfortable, offering me an invite in so many of your plans. Your actions demonstrated your understanding that entering into an already established dynamic can be tough (especially for a new college grad!). I enjoyed our late night talks and admired your ooptimism about your new job opportunities. You were truly one of a kind in your generous spirit and positive outlook. Thank you for allowing me to know you, even if it wasn't for very long... I think about you all the time. May you be with peace always.
Love,
Tanya Schultz
Marlena Nowaski
April 12, 2004
Doug,
It's unfortunate how people lose touch after highschool. After all these years, I still think of you all the time. At times, I think I see you from afar. I remember highschool days hanging out in the beach fields, living donw the street from you, going to elementary school together. Never did I think you would be taken away from us so soon. I remember being a cheerleader on the sidelines and watching you out on the field. Your kindness and genuine heart will never be forgotten. And to the family, you are always in my prayers. You raised a beautiful son.
Lisa Wood
September 11, 2003
Dear Doug,
I've known you since we were in preschool. We grew up around the corner from one another, our sisters were close friends, and we always had classes together. I'm sorry that it took me this long to write this, but I just found this guest book.
When I learned about what happened to you I was devastated beyond belief, even though I hadn't seen you in a long time. It makes me regret not seeing you more often, and not telling you what an amazing person I think you are. You may not believe it but I think about you almost every day, and I will miss you forever. You were always so sweet, and you never had a bad thing to say about anybody.
I can remember you playing football in High School (I was on Kickline) and we made signs for you and cheered you on. You were so proud, and we were so proud of you.
When I remember your sweet smile, and your quiet and gentle soul it makes me sad, but so happy I knew you. My thoughts, prayers and love are with you and your family and friends.
Love, Lisa
Jan Nethery
September 11, 2003
Dear Sharon and Family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers today. Wish I could give you a real, live hug, but am sending hugs through cyberspace. I know you are missing your Douglas, as you do every single day.
Love,
Jan (Tee's mom)
JoAnne Canchola
September 11, 2003
On this second anniversary of Doug's death, I wanted to express my sincerest sympathy to the DiStephano family. I didn't know Doug personally either, but know of him through his sister-in-law, Emily, and can't help but feel your loss. As an ex-Long Islander who started my career in NYC, I feel a connection to those who lost their lives in the WTC that day and my heart is heavy with sorrow that this senseless tragedy happened. May God give you all strength to get through each of these 9-11 anniversaries and know that Doug is with you always and watching from above.
Lori Parengkuan
September 11, 2003
Doug,
Our friendship began in preschool and continued through High School. You truly are a wonderful person and are missed by all. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
David DiStefano
September 26, 2002
I'm really sorry this happened...
When I saw his name.....it really hit home...........May he Rest In Peace
Mark Murphy
September 12, 2002
Doug truly was one of the most genuinely nice people I've ever had the good fortune to meet. I really got to know Doug in Elementary School at Bayview and in Little League. He was truly one of the most unselfish guys I've ever met. I guess it's true that when God needs and angel, he really does take the best.
To Doug and the entire DiStefano family; you are in mine and my family's thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all.
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