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Kevin O'Rourke Obituary
All the kids knew. If their bike was broken — a flat tire, a loose chain — then all they had to do was take it to the firehouse and see Kevin M. O'Rourke. He would dig his tool kit out of his locker, where the other firefighters had taped up a sign saying "Kevin's Bike Shop," and he'd fix it. And while the kids were there, he invariably taught them fire safety. He would unroll a rug and demonstrate how to do the stop, drop and roll technique for when one's clothes caught fire.
Firefighter O'Rourke, 44, lived with his wife, Maryann, and their daughters, Corinne, 20, and Jamie, 17, in Hewlett, N.Y. Each year, his family and his wife's family would converge for a ski trip and a golf outing.
He also was a regular in the annual firefighter ski races at Hunter Mountain. There would be five-man teams, and they would be in their jackets and helmets and have to cling to a fire hose and swoop down the mountain. There were innumerable teams, but one year Firefighter O'Rourke's came in fifth, and it made him very proud.
147 Entries
Thankful American
September 11, 2024
Thank you Kevin. You are remembered and your life, your courage, and your sacrifice, celebrated. May God truly bless your family and friends with peace and comfort.
Rachel Higgerson Accardo
June 7, 2024
Today I finished reading the book, "The day the world came to town" by Jim Defede ; it takes time to speaks of Kevin and the kind of heart he had for his family and community among other things, and I just wanted to take a moment and say Kevin sounds like one of the good old boys. Someone who just has a servants heart and I would have loved to have met him but can honestly say I'm sure on that tragic day, he gave comfort, support and love towards those going through the unimaginable and for that I am thankful. my heart and prayers go out to his family and all those who lost this beloved, beautiful, and cherished man.
JOHN MCKAY
September 13, 2022
It's been many years since I had seen Kevin but I always new he was a fantastic guy and his family always foremost in his mind. I think of him on the anniversary of his passing. I never got to say goodbye to a great guy. Rest in peace with all the other heroes of the world and knowing you were the best of the best.
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Jim Donlevy
July 17, 2019
It's close to 35 yrs since we car pooled to probie School. I'm still haunted by the events of that day it's surreal. I think of you often. Til we meet again.
Julia Wiesenfeld
July 6, 2019
Rip Kevin we miss u dearly love Julia and Lester
Rebecca Ann Price
June 30, 2019
I just finished reading The Day The World Came To Town by Jim Defede. Kevins story is still spreading in the world today and will never be lost. The true definition of a hero.
Rebecca
Gene Venezio
September 11, 2018
Today once again, I was telling my girls about Kevin about our childhoods in Cedarhurst, going to St. Joachim school into our early adulthood and joining L.C.F.D. We shared many good times together, from hanging out in Gumby's apartment and A&D hardware. And how could I ever forget riding in the bed of Joey Smiths Chiefs car, both of us stretching the feeder line down Broadway when W.F.D missed the hydrant for a signal 10 that took a whole block. I keep a picture of Kevin in full turnout gear on my phone, with that big smile that never faded. I miss you brother. Until we meet again, may god hold you in the palm of his hand. May god bless you and your family. And may GOD BLESS AMERICA!!
Tom H
September 11, 2018
Today, 09/11/2018, ( 17 years ...) we remember you Kevin. Thank you for courage and service ... We will never forget. Wishing all the best to your family and friends. Much regards.
Thomas Netter
September 11, 2018
"A man is not a Hero for the way he died, but for the way he lived." - Unknown
There are no truer word to describe Kevin O'Rourke then this, he was a Hero in every sense of the word !
Joan Beccard
March 12, 2018
I met Kevin when I was a Junior in college, 1975. I was working in Cedarhurst as a summer job for the Hart family. I have pictures of their house and was recently remembering all the wonderful people I met there. Kevin cleaned their pool. I actually do remember him telling me that he wanted to be a firefighter! I asked Maude O'Rourke(Prendergast) if she knew what ever happened to him and if he did become a firefighter. She told me yesterday that he was her second cousin and that he died on 9/11 as a firefighter. I remember him being a quiet and polite young man. Now, I can truly say that I knew a hero that died that day so that others could live. RIP Kevin.
Ken Murray
September 11, 2017
The 16th Anniversary and it seems like yesterday. I can never forget that smile. I always say what the world needs is more Kevin O'Rourkes.
Continue to watch over us. RIP my friend.
Thomas Netter
September 10, 2017
"A man is not a Hero for the way that he died, but for the way that he lived" - Unknown
Kevin was a true Hero in every sense of the word ! RIP kind Sir and know not a day goes by that I don't think of you and everyone else that made the ultimate sacrifice that tragic day 16 years ago !
Nida & O'Rourke
Kevin Nida
September 12, 2016
On September 10,2016 at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb held at the National Harbor just outside of D.C., I had the honor & privalege to climb for you. During the climb I was overwhelmed by the exhaustion & 94 degree weather we had. I had to take a moment to collect myself and regroup. I had a moment where I was ready to quite and walk away but as I sat there, I held your picture and talked to you. I thoght that there is no way that you would give up and I knew that there was no way that I could give up for you. I knew that I had to complete this climb for you and ring the bell in your honor. If not for your strength and courage I would not have finished this climb. I was very emotional as I was able to announce your name while ringing the bell five times in your honor. Thank you for all that you have done & for all that you still do. I will always remember you and will do my best to continue on in your foot steps.
Sincerely,
Kevin Nida
Thomas Netter
September 11, 2016
"A man is not a Hero for the way that he died, but for the way that he lived." - Unknown
There is no better word to describe Kevin other then Hero ! He was a humble and kind man that only wanted one thing in life and that was to help others. RIP Kevin, the world is a better place because of people like you !
Ed Farrell
September 9, 2016
Rest in peace my cousin Kevin. Never Forget!
S J. Friscia III
October 15, 2015
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Tyler Capron
September 11, 2015
Firefighter O'Rourke,
I never knew you, but today I had the honor of climbing for you in Denver, CO. I've been a firefighter for 7 years now and if I could be half the man or firefighter you have been written about, I'd be a happy man. I will not forget the sacrifice you've made. I will be the best person and firefighter I can be because of you. Rest easy and God Bless you and your family.
-FF Tyler Capron
Juan Batta
September 11, 2015
Kevin, every year at this time, my thoughts turn to you and your wonderful family. I miss your ever present smile and your willingness to help anyone. RIP Kevin! You are surely missed
September 11, 2015
We are having mass today at 2 o'clock in Lourdes for Kevin and the rest of the people who died on 9/11, RIP. Sean and Cindy O'Rourke.
Michael O'Rourke
September 9, 2015
I am not related to Kevin. I had never met him but as a tribute to the victims of the 9/11 tragedy I wanted to do something to recognize the victims of this terrible act of cowardice. About eight years ago I decided that I would look up the name of one of the fallen, to honor and recognize them. I started by looking up my own name. There was Kevin. He had the same name as my own brother. Immediately I recognized the randomness of this tragedy. These victims could have been anyone of our family or our friends. For Kevin, it was not a random act it was his duty, one that he carried our with bravery and honor. Kevin was a firefighter and he was a hero to all of those that he worked to save that day.
It has been said before that he was not a hero for the way he died but for the way he lived. Kevin was a great father and husband and on this day I get to honor him and recognize his family through our prayers and recognition at a memorial celebration at the Lake Park Fire Station. I am honored to appear on behalf of Kevin and I will also share the ceremonies with John Napolitano, the father of one of Kevin's co-workers at fire Rescue Company 2.
I am a school teacher. Since I have come to know of Kevin O'Rourke I have made my eight grade student take the steps that I have taken. They have been asked to find the name of someone who died in the events of 9/11. This year is the first year where the eight grade students were not alive at the time of the attack. They have nothing to judge this event by. They all went and found a person and then wrote a story about the person they found. Each student was moved by the experience and several of them wrote touching memorials about their person. Four of them will be presenting at the memorial.
We can never forget the horror of that day and the sacrifices of our gallant police and firefighters. Nor can we forget the names of those innocent victims who were killed simply because they were Americans who were at work. Each one has their story. Each one has their family. However, in a way they are all our own family. For their sacrifice should make us all recognize that we are also a nation that unites as one, and American family. Forever they will live on in our hearts. We remember that he was a great guy and a great dad and a friend to John Napolitano and to many others. He is remembered by his family and by those like me who never knew him.
Our prayers and condolences go out to Kevin.
Thomas E. Netter
September 9, 2015
As the 14th anniversary of that horrific day draws close I begin to start thinking about all the brave First Responders that I met while filming The Bravest TV Series prior to September 11th. I will always cherish the time spent with the FDNY Rescue companies especially Rescue 2 ! Kevin was a humble and simple man who only had one desire in life and that was to help others. A quote always comes to mind when I think of Kevin and all the others that answered their last alarm that day and I think that it exemplifies our nations First Responders.
"A man is not a Hero for the way that he died, but for the way that he lived !" - Unknown
RIP Kevin M. O'Rourke the world is a better place because you existed !
Bryan Babbitt
August 23, 2015
I don't know you Kevin, but you were on the Wall of Heroes for the San Diego Stair Climb 9/11 memorial and I will be scaling the stairs in your honor. Thank you for your service, you are a hero.
Jeaneen Tucker
December 31, 2014
I'm reading "The Day the World Came to Town". I can't fathom
how hard the days were on his parents being so far from home. We share the Catholic faith and it was reassuring to hear how Hannah & Dennis relied on their faith. I wish I had the privilege of knowing Kevin. What a shining example of a life well lived. I am confident he is resting at peace.
Jane Stoop
September 30, 2014
Hugs Jamie
Keith Miller
June 11, 2014
Kevin was a good Friend, one of the nicest people you could ever meet. God bless you Kevin and your Family.
January 20, 2014
I just finished reading "The Day the World Came to Town." I'm so very sorry for your loss.
G Bryan
December 2, 2013
Thank you for lending me your strength and courage today.
From my visit on Sept. 2nd. He found me, I stumbled upon him ;) RIP pal!
Anita Encinias
September 13, 2013
Thomas Netter
September 13, 2013
Kevin was not a Hero for the way he died, he was a Hero for the way that he lived !
Ellie O'Rourke
September 12, 2013
God bless x
September 4, 2013
As we approach the 12th Anniversary of September 11th, I would like to thank all who have left kind words about my brother Kevin. Kevin always left a positive impression on people when he was here and I see that he still does. We are all here to make a difference in someone's life,however our paths cross. Live life and cherish those around you, your'e only here once!
Anita Encinias
September 2, 2013
Three years ago I participated in a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in Morrison, CO and climbed in honor of Kevin. Since then I've researched this great man, saw the Gander story, and always follow when someone signs the guest book. Today I went to the 9/11 memorial at Ground Zero to pay respect. I walked up to the North Pool and as people moved to make room for us, I looked down and Kevin O'Rourke's name was the first name I saw!! I couldn't believe his was the first name I walked up to and I wasn't even looking for it! I felt honored, happy, sad, and shocked all at once. The memorial is pretty powerful and I highly recommend the visit! So glad I could pay my respects in person.
June 23, 2013
I cannot find the right words as I do not beleive there are the right words, but I do want you to know that I do feel a very deep connection with the family. My dearest aunt was Virginia O'Keefe and I had the rare and at the time unknown honor of spending time as a youngster with Kevin. I was a distant relative who came with my mother to visit my aunt in New York city and we made the trip to visit relatives in Long Island-the O'Rourke's. As a 12 yr old I was not so interested in visiting with relatives but being Kevin was there and was my age I remember having a great time. I just would like to say that I know there are no words to express my deepest sympathy and respect. I just watched a video of Mary Ann and Jamie doing an interview-took my breath away. Interesting how a seemingly simple visit and crossing of paths as a child can mean so much. If you ever want to communicate my email is: [email protected].
April 9, 2013
I never knew Kevin, being from England, but I have read stories about him as a person after his name appeared on the bottom of a photo I took at the 9/11 plunge pool memorial. I felt drawn to find a little more about the name I saw instead of him being anonymous to me. He sounds to have been a great person, dedicated to his work and helping victims of fire and local kids with their bikes. The world is short of people like him. God bless him and all the victims of that memorable day. My thoughts are with all of them. Mark Finney - Yorkshire - England 9.4.13
Debbie Smith
September 18, 2012
I didn't know Kevin O'Rourke but on September 9, 2012 in Manchester, New Hampshire at the second annual 911 Memorial Stair Climb (a memorial in which we repeat the footsteps of the 343 fallen FDNY Firefighters/Brothers in climbing 110 stories), I had the priviledge of wearing the placard in memory of Kevin O'Rourke around my neck. I climbed 110 stories in memory of him for his bravery and courage for running into a building to save people on 911 making the ultimate sacrifice of his own life... as I wore his photo around my neck we climbed together up these 110 stories and I am proud to say I carried him out. It was a very touching tribute to a great hero. Each year I will ask to wear his placard in his memory and I will never forget! God bless his family.
Ken Murray
September 10, 2012
Always Remembered, Never Forgotten. Rest in Peace Kevin.
Prayers to the entire O'Rourke family on the approaching 11th Anniversary. Kevin was a great fire fighter, but an even greater person. I am honored to say I knew him and served with him in the Hewlett FD. I am a better person from having known this man. Kevin's smile and personality was infectious. Everyone should care about there fellow man as much as Kevin did.
Deborah Gonzales
September 10, 2012
On Saturday, I walked in the Tunnel to Tower 5K, in memory of Kevin O'Rourke. Heart filled condolences for his wife and daughters. God Bless America.
Thomas Netter
September 10, 2012
"A Man is not a Hero for the way that he died, but for the way that he lived !" - Unknown
Every time read this quote I can't help but think of Kevin !
John England
September 9, 2012
The British people admired the way America dealt with this terrible tragedy with such dignity. I send my thoughts and prayers to the O'Rourke family and my admiration for their heroic Kevin
Patricia O'Keefe
September 8, 2012
From the Family of Kevin O'Rourke, thank you to all for remembering my brother. As we approach the 11th Anniversary of Sept 11, 2001, please remember all the lives lost on that day and the one's since. All the first responders who have passed due to the work at ground zero, our servicemen and women who each day fight for our freedom. It is in their memory that we must NEVER FORGET what AMERICA stands for. FREEDOM.
Kimberly Lough
February 11, 2012
Kevin's name was the first name I saw when I walked up to the memorial. I vowed that I would honor him by finding out about his life. What a great man! I will always think of him whenever I think about that day.
SEAN O`ROURKE
September 19, 2011
ALWAYS REMEMBERED KEV, REST IN PEACE
Elisa Bachrow Hinken
September 19, 2011
As though it was yesterday, we shall never forget. We honor the memory of Kevin in the Five Towns and all over our great country, because Kevin honored us in public service and in kindness to his fellow man. I know his family is so proud of their hero. We all are. Miss you much Kevin.
Michele Bass
September 17, 2011
Sending the O'Rourke family Love and Light on the 10th anniversary of the tragedy of 911. We just watched the Documentary on Ground Zero by FEMA photographer Andrea Bohmer who lives here in Aspen, Colorado. Our family picked up one of the Roses in the lobby of the historic Wheeler Opera House where the film was shown. Each rose had a ribbon and a photo and name of the 343 Firemen who were killed on that awful day. We will Always Remember. We will Never Forget Mr. O'Rourke or the other 342 men who gave their lives in Service to help their fellow Americans. God Bless You and Keep you Safe! Michele Nelson Bass and Family
Patty Horan
September 12, 2011
From the Horans to the O'rourkes..we were all family here in Cedarhurst..You were always a wonderful person...a role model..you remain forever in our hearts and thoughts..we love you..Patty Horan
Jenny Skeath
September 11, 2011
Dear O'Rourke family, first let me express my sincere condolences to you on the loss of Mr. O'Rourke. My name is Jenny and I live in Pittsburgh. I was given a flag today by the local fire department during their memorial service. I received Mr. O'Rourke's flag and I was asked to say a prayer for him and his family. I just want you all to know that you not only have the love and support of God, but also from this family here in Pittsburgh. I have another flag from another gentleman who died that day that I received 10 years ago and have prayed for his family ever since. I will now be adding Mr. O'Rourke's to stand with the other gentleman and they will never be forgotten. I am glad I was able to contact you through this site. God bless you all.
Richard Trotta
September 11, 2011
It is now 10 years Kevin and I have not forgotten. I think of you often and you are always in my prayers. Say Hi to my mom.
Richard F Trotta
COL (Ret) US Army
OEF Veteran 2005-2006
Francey Pistono
September 11, 2011
Today I walked in honor of Kevin at the 9-11 Colorado Stair Climb. I'm Irish and proud of it, I'm from the western states but I first and foremost an American. I chose to walk in honor of Kevin's memory without first reading these beautiful sentiments expressed by those who knew him. My faith assures me that he is watching us this day, proud of his family, proud of his nation, proud of his fellow firefighters. Rest in peace, Kevin. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers from this day forward. Watch over us and keep us close. Thank you for your service to all.
Jim DeFede
September 11, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with the O'Rourke family on this gruesome anniversary. I never met Kevin but I was lucky enough to speak with his family while I was researching a book on 9/11. They are among the finest people I have ever met - a warm, gracious and loving family.
Growing up in such a family, I have little doubt that Kevin was as wonderful a person as people say.
I wish the O'Rourke's comfort and peace on this grim day. I'm glad I was able to chronicle their story for others to be touched by.
Once again I wish them all the best.
mary boylan
September 11, 2011
god bless you kevin,never got to know you;always in our hearts and minds,true hero
mary boylan
September 11, 2011
god bless u kevin,never got to know,you are in our heart and mind,always
judy and les wiesenfeld
September 10, 2011
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Patrick Fitzsimons
September 10, 2011
My family and I grew up across the street from the O'Rourkes. My sister and I were around the same age as his girls so we played together. My dad like the girls dad worked alot and me being the complete terror i was seemed to always get myself into some sort of trouble. I remember one day for some reason i ended up in a pretty big tree. Kevin was outside and walked over. He asked me "Pat what are you doing all the way up there", and like any other little boy i told him "im cutting down a branch i dont want it to fall and hit the house", Kevin smiled and helped me down. He told me to wait and walked back across the street to their house. To my surprise he returned with a tree trimmer and said "if we're gonna do this lets do this right". He explained to me that being a fireman they use many tools and explained the importance of safety and together we took down this so called branch. I talked about it for days annoying my parents until they finally let me join the juniors at the old Hewlett firehouse. Today as a grown man looking back though its been many years I couldn't forget that small little memory we had. Today, like Kevin did i work also as a first responder for the great city of New York. Tomorrow will be the 10'th anniversary of 9/11 and myself like many others will be at ground zero not only working but honoring those we have all lost. On that day remember not only what they did but who they were and who they left. Take a minute and say a prayer for the families and friends of these true heroes. RIP Kevin.
Judie and Fred Nauman
September 9, 2011
Celebrate the life, even as you mourn the loss. Our thoughts are with you.
Karen Martin
September 9, 2011
As Godfather to Andrew, you can watch over him from above and as Godmother, I will watch over him here. It is my honor to share this responsibility with you.
Margaret Mammes
September 9, 2011
Kevin O'Rourke has to be one of the most humblest, kindest gentle souls I have ever met. A true hero and role model for all that were fortunate to have met him. Time is supposed to help heal hurt and sorrow and 10 years later it still persists. We remember you Kevin as well as all of the other heroes and innocent victims of 9/11, not only today but everyday. To the O'Rourke and Jackson families we are keeping good thoughts for all of you and we know that Kevin is looking down on all of you and is so very proud of all of you, especially his devoted wife Maryann who always has a "Kevin" story to tell and his daugters Corrine and Jamie who have grown up to be such beautiful, lovely women. RIP Kevin, you will never be forgotten and your memory lives on forever in our hearts. We are proud and honored to have known you.
Margaret & Patrick Mammes
Rockaway Park, NY
Jill Ramirez
September 9, 2011
Lighting this candle to celebrate your life. The O'Rourke family is in my thoughts and prayers on the ten year anniversary of 9/11.
Corinne O'Rourke Strome
September 9, 2011
I didn't know about this site before this year, I guess I wasnt ready to look. I am grateful to all of the people who have taken the time to remember my father and the other victims of 9/11. He was one of nearly 3,000 people who died that day and yet his story has reached millions. Your kind words and prayers move me and I am so glad that when I go to teach my children about their grandfather I'll be able to share these messages with them. Thank you all!
Sue Napolitano
September 8, 2011
Kevin was the guy who always had a smile and always loved who he was with and where he was. No matter what you always felt the warmth from his heart. Miss you and never forgotten. FDNY forever!!
Nicole Eichman
September 8, 2011
I wish I had the honor to have met you. When Andy talks about you all he has to say are more than amazing things. I can tell you were much more than an Uncle and a hero to many people. You would be soo proud of him today. I tell Andy all the time you're watching over him. Rest in peace and God bless. x0
Patricia
September 8, 2011
LOVE YOU KEVIN
Patricia
September 8, 2011
I have been reading all the beautiful messages that you have all written about my brother, Kevin. Thank you everyone for your thoughtfulness, it means so much to me and my family. God Bless You.
Always in our Hearts ... Never Forget
Thomas
September 8, 2011
I was part of the film crew that shot the television series "The Bravest" in 2000 & 2001, I feel bad that it's taken me 10 years to write something about my experiences with Rescue 2 and the FDNY but I guess it has taken me that long to heal enough to be able to do this ! There's only one thing you can say about Kevin, he wasn't a Hero for the way he died he was a Hero for the way that he lived ! 10 years has past but I'll always cherish my time with the crew at Rescue 2 and the rest of FDNY ! May God bless the families and may you all know that you never have or will you ever grieve alone !
Jim Donlevy
August 14, 2011
appointed to the FDNY with Kevin. rode to proby school every day with him. he was one of the good guys. I think of him often. til we meet again. RIP
Art B
August 10, 2011
The Rotary Club of Southington CT is honoring each victim of 9/11 at the 10th anniversary. I will collect food to feed the needy in his honor
Martin Adams
June 12, 2011
I too have read The Day The World Came To Town & the pain & uncertainty of Kevin's parents Hannah & Dennis O'Rourke was palpable. I hope they at least found comfort in having raised a gentleman who dedicated his life to others.
Anima eius et animae omnium fidelium defunctorum per Dei misericordiam requiescant in pace.
Casey Kidd
May 24, 2011
I read the story The Day The World Came To TOwn in my eighth grade class this year and one of the Characters was Kevin O'Rourke. when I read he died I felt so sad and heartbroken. I am so proud of him and his parents ffor thier courage and strength. Rest In Peace
Debbie Summa
May 2, 2011
We have waited a long time for this day, and thank god it has happen. We pray this will give some small peace to Maryann, your two beautiful daughters. We will always remember your smile and we will NEVER FORGET!
Debbie, Donna, Howie and Aunt Flo
JORDAN H
January 28, 2011
KEVIN- IM SO INSPIRED BY YOUR HEROISM ON 9/11. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOUR BRAVERY ON 9/11. I PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY EVERY NIGHT. GOD BLESS YOU HERO. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU GAVE ON SEPT 11TH.
Owen Michael McCafferty
November 16, 2010
Kevin is in heaven with God watching over us. A finer human being you would be hard pressed to meet. He exemplified what it meant to live life as a good human being. There isn't a day that goes by that Kevin or his family aren't in my thoughts and prayers.
God bless the O'Rourke family all families of the FDNY
September 13, 2010
My name is Michael Reynolds and i rode in Kevin's honor on a 9/11 Tribute Ride saturday, 9/11/2010 here in Kansas city.
Thank you for your service.
Michae;
Anita Encinias
September 11, 2010
Today I was given the honor to volunteer at Denver's 9/11 Remembrance at Red Rocks in Morrison, CO. We walked 9 laps up and down the amphitheater stairs to commemorate the stairs that our fallen herons climbed. Today I walked in memory of Kevin O'Rouke and I wore a picture of him with his name. It was a pleasure to walk in his name and he will never be forgotten. RIP Kevin O'Rourke.
Anita Encinias
Denver, CO
Massay & Evelyn Boylan
September 11, 2010
It doesn't seem like 9 years, 9/11 will always be remembered just as you will......RIP Kevin, Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam
Massay & Evelyn Boylan
September 11, 2010
It doesn't seem like 9 years, 9/11 will always be remembered just as you will be......RIP Kevin, Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam xx
shauna hagan
September 11, 2010
i didnt know you , but your my mum cousin , i have heard funny storiens about you , rip , xxx
aoife boylan
September 10, 2010
to a amazing persion.you will always be in our hearts..xxx
alison lyttle
September 10, 2010
you may not have been of my direct family,, but yyour passing was fel through my brother inlaw conor who was your cousin, my thoughts go out to all your family and friends , you will always BE REMEMBERED FOR YOUR BRAVERY love ali and chris x
Liz Boylan
September 10, 2010
United in grief for all loved and lost R.I.P
liz boylan
September 10, 2010
word's will always fail us at times like this!! kevin you were one of lifes gentle, true and beautiful people. you lived for and loved your family but you also loved and believed in your job!! may you and your fallen colleagues R.I.Pxxxxxx
Chuck Fager
June 26, 2010
Remember that this greatness was won by men with courage, with knowledge of their duty, and with a sense of honor in action...They gave their bodies and received, each for his own memory, praise that will never die, and with it the grandest of all sepulchers, not that in which their mortal bones are laid, but a home in the minds of men. -Thucydides
Rest in Peace Brother!
Neil S
April 15, 2010
I kind of got to know about you and your brothers on FDNY from watching "The Bravest". Rest in peace, we will all eventually meet.
DONNA DALTO
April 3, 2010
You are missed by all Kevin. When you, Maryann and I use to hang out together you were always so mellow. You were the kindest, sweetest guy I have ever known. I know your an angel.
Kate Harper
March 13, 2010
I just watched MSNBC's story on the people of Gander who opened their homes and hearts to those who were left stranded when their planes were diverted on 9/11. The humanity displayed by strangers who wanted to help in any way they could is astounding. It was a reaffirmation of the innate goodness in people who helped in a terrible time of need. But then the story of the O'Rourkes who were desperately awaiting word of their heroic son, Kevin, a firefighter who was lost in the North Tower. Thank you Beulah Cooper, resident of Gander, for giving them your consoling words to ease their grief. To watch the O'Rourkes dignity and courage was amazing. I am so sorry you lost your beautiful, heroic son. God Bless you, Kevin's soul and the people of Gander.
PERL O'ROURKE
March 13, 2010
Dear Hanna & Denis,
I just watched the GANDER story for the second time on TV. The first time I wanted to email you both, but I was crying so much I couldn't get all the info. It was like re~living the whole event again. My name is Perl O'Rourke & I was also born in 1957. There are no words to ease anyone's pain over this horiffic event. I just wanted to let you know, that somewhere down the line, we must be related & I was so proud of a very special "O'ROURKE"....YOUR KEVIN!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL!
Barbara Redden
February 27, 2010
I was so touched by the courage his parents showed. He had such a beautiful smile.God bless all out you.
Jackie Robertson
February 27, 2010
I watched the story about Gander, Canada on NBC and the story about New York Fire Fighter, Kevin O'Rourke's parents and what they went through being in a place they did not know and on top of everything, not knowing if their son Kevin was safe. As a mother of a Fire Fighter in a large city, the tears and the feeling of their anguish overwhelmed me. My heart and prayers go to all the families that lost someone on September 11th. All the Fire Fighter's, Police Officer's and Emergency medical responders ALWAYS go towards what we run from. Thank you for your service and you have a special place with God.
Sandy Mamere
February 27, 2010
The legacy of 9/11 is the goodness of humanity, of the will to find redemption and meaning in tragedy. GBY.
William Hugh Murray
February 27, 2010
Just saw a tribute to Kevin on NBC. There are no heroes like firemen.
Anne S
February 27, 2010
You are a reminder of what is best about New York. Thoughts and prayers.
James Matarese
February 27, 2010
Best of luck to the O'Rourke family. Just saw Kevin's story on NBC, it was tough to watch but I am very grateful for his service. Thank you.
Rebecca Shisler
February 27, 2010
In loving memory. Watched NBC's story during the Olympics. You were a great man and I am sure still sorely missed.
meghan golden
March 3, 2009
there are no words.... much love for all of you....
Matt Decker
December 24, 2008
Kevin,
I read about you a year ago in a book called "The Last Men Out" about FDNY's Rescue 2. I am about to enter the fire service myself, and I couldn't help but be inspired by you. There is so much we can learn from your life and the way you served. I just wanted you to know that. Thank you for everything.
September 12, 2008
In memory
Kevin O'Rourke
October 13, 2007
Hi Kev,
I was on line and googled my name, and found you. I'm humbled to find that such a great & brave man shared my name (and birth year! 1956).
Just reading the entries from friends & family tells me you were loved dearly. Though I never knew you, I will never forget that you and the others sacrificed thier lives to save innocent civilians that day, as every day.
God bless you cousin, and the other 342 brave souls.
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