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Elkin Yuen Obituary
Wall Street brokers often complain about how much work they have to do in such little time that they can't even contemplate taking a vacation. But not Elkin Yuen, who worked for Carr Futures.
Every year, he and his wife, Cella, took two major vacations and plenty of smaller ones, to get away from the city they grew up in. It was important, he always told his wife, to have fun, to live in the moment. (And to play golf, go to the beach and gamble, if at all possible.) Even when his wife had the urge to save money more quickly to buy a house, "he'd rather spend a few thousand dollars going away for a week than save the money," his wife recalled. And with that perpetual smile and infectious joie de vivre, who could say no?
Hawaii, Cancún, Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, Lake Tahoe, St. Maartens, Walt Disney World: they all made their way into the overflowing photo albums in the Yuens' Flushing home. Oh, and Aruba, twice. "I'm so glad he pushed me," Mrs. Yuen said. "I would have lost all that time with him."
Perhaps the only thing Mr. Yuen loved more than going on vacation was doting on his daughter, Nicole, now 3. These days, Nicole is still not sure what happened, but she does miss her father. She sometimes tells her mother: "I want Daddy to come home. Daddy used to take me to Chucky Cheese."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
John Agius
September 11, 2023
I used to work nights and before going to work I would sit on my porch and have coffee.Elkin used to come home from work about the same time every night.He told me he got a great job as a broker at the World Trade Center.After 911 I would sit and wait for him to come home but he never did.Miss you and our chats and still missing you to this day.May you rest in God's Heavenly Kingdom.Till we meet again my friend.
Francisco Maya
September 11, 2023
I remember Elkin and the members of his big, lovely family, every year. All the provided help and experiences that i got provided. Those were good times and the most critical ones that changed and shaped what i am now. I will always appreciate it.
Francisco Maya
September 11, 2022
As every year, we raise a glass of wine to your memory Elkin!
Adrienne Garvey
September 12, 2019
I worked next to Elkin in 4WTC & he was smart & kind. God Bless you & your family.
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Peggy Childers
September 11, 2019
To the family and friends of Elkin Yuen:
Please know that Elkin will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not allow those we lost on 9/11 be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you.
Fabian Rodriguez
August 22, 2017
Elkin, I searched for you on social media for years, I never knew. We went to elementary school together. I was very saddened to see this. I am so glad you loved and lived your life to the fullest. I was very blessed to have known you. We used to laugh out loud and giggle quietly (when we got caught by teachers) all the time. I can still remember your laugh. It brings a smile to my face even now. RIP my friend. I will find you again one day when I too leave this material world and I am sure God will be telling us quiet down because we are laughing too loud!! God bless your family.
peter szep
December 5, 2016
my friend from the 6 th to 8 th grade.. is 126.. really good at soccer...Gym was the favorite subject...Glad i met him REST in Peace
September 12, 2016
In my thoughts every year.
Catherine C
September 11, 2016
At my church in Santa Monica, we were each given a name to pray over today for 9/11. We were told to feel free to search online for who they were and pray for their families. I received Elkin's name and found this page. I pray for him and his family - that they continue to receive healing and peace.
Nick Kastanos
September 11, 2013
Hard to believe it's been 12 years since we lost our friend. We miss him so much and still look back on the fun times we had growing up in Astoria, Queens. Love you Elkin.
Hilda Gabor
September 11, 2013
I never forgot Elkie's white tees,faded. lees, and his nike-ees, he was honorable as a boy, and honorable as a man I am sure, Although I moved from Astoria a long time ago, and went on about life, he was one young man I never forgot. I never forgot how wonderfully he treated us all. Not a bad word deed or bone in his soul. God Bless the Yuen Family and Elkins most beautiful soul. I think of him and smile about Mrs. Wilner's English Lessons and table
football. I miss my friend from when I was a little girl. I remember the softball game in Astoria Park. Oh Those Wonderful Younger Days the whole grade was there we had a great softball game.
Pancho Maya
May 14, 2013
I lost track of Elkin's family: His brother Billy, beloved mother. His uncle, Alex was my godfather. I spend 2 great summers with Elkin as his "protege". After 09/11 I was able to visit Queens again but found no longer Elkin's family. Hope to hear from them.
Laurie
September 11, 2012
I concur, your smile and laughter are how I remember you. My love to your family.
bryant football elkin #25 front row sitting thought you would enjoy seeing it
nektar g
September 14, 2011
Joe Songco
September 13, 2011
Final score on 9/11/2011: Jets 27 Cowboys 24. Knew you'd like that.
Debra R
September 11, 2011
Dear Elkin,
I like most people will never forget you. You had a great friendly personality. You were what everyone says you were and more. Your family will always be in my thoughts.
Jacques
September 11, 2011
Dear Elkin,
Your infectious smile and solid passion for life were aspect of you being that i will always remember.
We all miss you.
Vera Maharaj
September 11, 2011
It feels like just yesterday, yet it feels like a lifetime. Nevertheless, you will never be forgotten. A decade has gone by, but you will live in our hearts forever. With Love Always ~ The Maharaj Family
Robert Allen
September 10, 2011
To Elkins family,
I worked with Elkin in the Electricity pit at NYMEX when we were both new traders, and I always think of him anytime I think about what happened that day. He was a great person and always in my thoughts. My prayers go out to you.
Adrienne Garvey
September 9, 2011
Elkins Family,
I worked next to Elkin for many years at 4 WTC....Dale & I were talking about you yesterday and how smart & nice you were.
You are missed, until we meet again.
jordan zaromatidis
January 28, 2011
To the Elkin's family,
Elkin and I were teammates on W.C. Bryant High School football team 85'. I remember he always had a kind word of encouragement. After having a conversation with Elkin you always felt better about yourself. Along with his witty remarks and his contagious laugh he has brought joy into my life. He was also mature for his age and wise beyond his years. Which was great sharing time with him and you were proud to call him your FRIEND. I will sorely miss you buddy you definitely made your parents proud. My prayers go out to your family.
jordan zaromatidis
January 28, 2011
To the Elkin's family,
Elkin and I were teammates on W.C. Bryant High School football team 85'. I remember he always had a kind word of encouragement. After having a conversation with Elkin you always felt better about yourself. Along with his witty remarks and his contagious laugh he has brought joy into my life. He was also mature for his age and wise beyond his years. Which was great sharing time with him and you were proud to call him your FRIEND. I will sorely miss you buddy you definitely made your parents proud. My prayers go out to your family.
george catsicas
January 7, 2011
elk,what's up.i can't believe how quickly time is passing.remember back in the 70's & early 80's sitting on the stoop with the crew seeing who could name the most rock bands.we'd go on for hours till a winner was declared.you got me my ticket to the first concert i ever went to-maiden&queensryche at radio city.you were my first friend in life and i was yours,&even though we drifted apart in our later years,somehow before the tragedy which occured we bumped into each other on the 9 train & managed to catch up on the years.you visit me on occasion in my dreams,& eventually we'll have a full on a.p.s. reunion.
ovidio osorio
January 3, 2011
Elki, do you remeber the skateboard antics down the steep hill when we were growing up? Or the time Joe Fish found an old beatup motorcycle and we all took turns rolling down the hill.
nektar giannios
September 11, 2010
the perfect pic of you
always smiling and always ready to help me in high school with our Chemistry lab pranks ... never forgotten
nektar giannios
September 11, 2010
a great friend and classmate in high school ,,,,,,elk was always smiling and my partner in crime in many chemistry pranks ,,,,
Debra
February 28, 2010
Dear Cella and Nicole,
I used to work with Elkin at a record store in the city. Elkin was going to college at time and working as many hours as he could. He was great fun to work with and I remember laughing alot. Elkin will never be forgotten by anyone that had the chance to meet him.
This is a great site and thanks for including Elkin in it.
September 11, 2009
Elkin,
Hard to believe it's been 8 years. We never get tired of hearing funny stories or looking at old photos of you. Fellow Libra, Jet and Yankee fan we miss you so much. Cella and Nicole, you're always in our thoughts and prayers. All our love, the Kastanos Family, Cathy, Tony, John and Sofia.
Mark Motroni
September 11, 2009
Thinking of our youth together still brings a smile to my face. Elk was a great friend, husband, and dad. Miss you bro.
Ivonne Lara
September 11, 2009
Elkin will always be remember by many, and our prayers will be Cella and Nicole always. He will always be in your heart forever.
The Lara family.
Nicholas Kastanos
September 11, 2009
Elkin,
We will always love and remember you.
Love,
Nicky Kastanos
Joe Songco
September 11, 2009
I could write a book on all the fun, cool & hilarious things we did in our younger years. We all miss you dude...and we always will.
When the Knicks win a championship, whenever that will be, you will be the first person I think of!
September 11, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you on this day and everyday. The memories will never be taken away.
With Love,
Vera, Sunil, Christopher and Nicholas
Walt Schneider
September 12, 2008
We share in your loss and grief on this day, dear Cella and Nicole. Thinking of you and Elkin often. Love Peg and Walt.
Vera Maharaj
September 11, 2008
Even though I only met you a few times, I will never forget you, Cella or Nicole. My husband never met you but always listens for your name at the September 11 reading of names. Of course since your name ends in “Y”, he must listen hours till it gets to your name (smile). We always remember you with your family. Happy and Loving. Every year Cella sends me a picture of Nicole and she looks exactly like you. She is beautiful. We have her picture on our refrigerator. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Cella and Nicole not only today but everyday.
Vera, Sunil, Christopher and Nicolas
Christmas 1993: Elkin, Nick, Joe, Saso, Dave, George
September 11, 2008
Joe Songco
September 11, 2008
Elk, we miss you as much today as we ever have.
Cella & Nicole, I took a little time to put together some photos of Elkin with his friends and family.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91AjEBq43os
Love you guys.
Rick, Jen, Ryan & Kelly Miller
September 16, 2007
Six years have passed but a lifetime of memories remain, speak of those we have lost as if they are amongst us and their spirit will live on.
Peg Schneider
September 11, 2007
If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
And bring you back again.
~Author Unknown~
Walt Schneider
September 11, 2007
On the anniversary of one of our darkest days, there is light. On the day that commemorates one of our worst national tragedies, there is celebration of life. On a day that many might rather forget, there is remembrance of good times past. We are thinking of you today and every day, Elkin. Love Walt & Peg
Joe Songco
September 11, 2007
<< Cella looks so much like you now it's not even funny.>>
Sorry, I meant to say Nicole looks so much like you...hey, stop laughing at me! =)
Cathy and Tony Kastanos
September 11, 2007
Elkin,
We're always thinking of you especially today and miss you very much. Cella is doing an excellent job raising your precious little angel Nicole. Seeing them again was so great. Keep smiling Elkin, we love you. With all of our love, Cathy, Tony and our children, John and Sofia.
Cella Yuen
September 11, 2007
Hey Everyone,
Thank you for all your loving thoughts on this difficult day.
Nick Kastanos
September 11, 2007
Elkin,
We love you and miss you so much.
Your friend forever,
Nick Kastanos
Joe Songco
September 11, 2007
Elk, I miss you as much today as I ever have. Last Sunday, George had Cella and Nicole over for George's son's 2nd birthday party and Frankie, Tony, Nicky were there. Cella looks so much like you now it's not even funny.
Last year at Tony's surprise 40th b'day party that Cathy threw for him, me, George, Nicky, Nick Benetos, Caesar, Rick, Mike Dijan, Lou and Tony all did a shot in your honor. That's probably the closest we've ever come to an APS reunion...except for AJ...and Frankie...and Saso & Mark...and Foti...ok, so maybe we were a bit short...(I can hear you laughing that ginesso laugh right now)
I thank God for all the fun memories we had together, from hanging out on 14th street to you being an Outburst roadie to all the basketball we played and all the Knicks games and everything else in between over the years.
Love you, bro. See you on the other side someday.
P Tabbernor
April 24, 2007
In remembrance....
Peg Schneider
September 11, 2006
Elkin, it's hard to believe that it has already been 5 years. Not a day goes by without you, Cella, and Nicole being in our thoughts. God bless you.
Samantha Sommerfield
September 11, 2006
Its hard to say what I want to say. When I say it outloud I choke up and can't speak. I remember as a little girl going to watch you play softball with my dad in Marine Park. Those days seem so far away now. I can't even remember the last time I saw you. It was probably during one of the Christmas party in the Financial Center. I only wish you were still alive. Dad misses you everyday. I can't help but think what would have been. We love and miss you so much Elkin.
Walt Schneider
September 11, 2006
Five years on, and it's still hard. But, we move on and remember you today and every day. Love always, Walt & Peg.
Walt Schneider
September 11, 2005
Hey buddy. Another year has come and gone and I still can't believe that any of this has happened. It is like a nightmare from which we are unable to awaken. Four years now and we keep moving on. Looking ahead, but not without also looking back. For we shall never forget you or those who fell with you. Love always, Walt & Peggy.
Note: There was a time when I worried that this great tribute site might some day disappear from the Internet. Today I noticed a very nice update to the guest book. It's beautiful. To the very kind people at Legacy.com, Peggy and I thank you very much.
Peggy Schneider
September 11, 2005
Those we love
are never really lost to us...
we feel them in so many special ways...
through friends they always cared about
and dreams they left behind,
in beauty that they added to our days...
in words of wisdom we still carry with us
and memories that never will be gone...
Those we love
are never really lost to us...
for everywhere their special love lives on.
~ Amanda Bradley ~
God bless Elkin, Cella and Nicole.
Diosa Chin
May 15, 2005
Elkin we miss you very much. I will always remember. The family prayer for you, Rest in peace Elkin we never forget 9/11/01
Peggy Schneider
September 12, 2004
As time goes by, the more we heal, but the sense of loss will always be there. I will never forget where I was and what I was doing when I heard.
God bless Elkin, Cella and Nicole. May peace be with you.
Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended. - Isaiah 60:20 (Photo by Shelby Chan)
Walt Schneider
September 11, 2004
Elkin, it's hard to imagine it's September again. It's true what they say you know. Seems the older you get, the faster time flies. Three years have come and gone now and believe it or not, not much has changed. Peg and I have moved to Las Vegas. Okay so that's changed. But in the bigger picture, people still run around, committing unspeakable acts of terrorism. Tell me Elkin, when they get to the other side, do they change? Or do they even get to the same place as their helpless victims? Three years passed and still... a big empty hole in the NY skyline... a big empty reminder of what happened. Three years passed and still... big empty holes in all of our hearts. They try to fill the emptiness with light and while it's a wonderful tribute, let's be honest. When compared to pre 9/11, the lights are but a few notches above emptiness. They are beautiful though. Shelby took a picture of them, the first time they flicked the switch. He's turned out to be quite the lens master. We miss you all. We miss the twins. We miss the way things used to be.
Peggy Schneider
September 11, 2003
Not a day goes by without me thinking of Elkin, Cella, and Nicole. I'm glad that I had a chance to have known him & Cella and were able to take all those trips together, which were always filled with infectious laughter.
Take care, my friend. The three of you will always be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Walt Schneider
September 11, 2003
Hey buddy, I'm back. Didn't think I'd forget, did ya? I hung your picture and your "Creative Vacationer" write-up on my office door at work. Everyone wanted to know who you are. I told them about you and what little I know about that day. September 11th always draws much discussion... most of it sad. I almost feel guilty for being sad about it. I know you and all that have passed with you would not want it this way. After all this time, it's still an extremely hard pill to swallow. I have another buddy who lost a Search and Rescue dog to lung disease from working at the WTC. If you see a good looking Rottweiler wearing an orange vest, he probably goes by the name Diavlo. Make sure you praise him and let us know we're all proud of him. Tell him Paul says "Hi" and he misses him very much. We mss you too, man. Think of you often. 'Til next time. :-) -Walt
Adrienne Garvey
September 11, 2003
I worked next to Elkin for a few years in the Natural Gas Market and he was kind, funny and smart. I think of him often as well as Mugsy and everyone else. You and your family are always in my prayers. God Bless.
Peggy (Chan) Schneider
September 11, 2002
I will always remember the trips (Toronto and Niagara Falls, Cancun, Bahamas, Baltimore, Virginia) that I’ve been on with Elkin and Cella, along with all the good times and laughter that we’ve all shared. Elkin, I know you weren’t able to ever beat me in Tetris and that motorcycle racing game, perhaps one day we’ll have another rematch. Cella and Nicole, you will constantly be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Jeanne Rashap
September 11, 2002
This morning I sang in the Mozart Requiem, part of the world-wide "Rolling Requiem". I am honored to have been given a card to wear with Elkin's name on it, to wear for the memorial service and in his memory this day. My hope is that my voice, with so many thousands of others, can be a voice for Elkin and others who have no voice - to heal, love, and pray for the souls of every individual, the community of peaceful nations, and the future of the planet.
Rose Ching
September 9, 2002
Elkin was my cousin, he was like a small brother that I never had. We lived together as brother and sister in our home in Astoria.
We miss him dearly, as the year comes it's still hard to think this
had ever happen. I will cherish all
the moments we had during our childhood. God Bless you, Cella and Nicole and especially his mother Gilma who is like a 2nd mother to me.
Your are a angel in heaven to us.
Peggy lighting up the Empire State with her beautiful smile... before we all lost our innocence.
Walter Schneider
September 7, 2002
Cella, I just found this site. What a wonderful way to remember our fallen loved ones. My name is Walt and I believe you know my wife Peggy. She lives in San Diego now and has spoken very fondly of you and Elkin and has expressed regret for not keeping in touch. We are so saddened by everyone's loss and we pray that you and Nicole will be strong and persevere. I never had the chance to meet Elkin, but I'm certain that is what he would want. If you read this, please contact Peggy at
[email protected]
I'm sure she would be so thrilled to hear from you. And the next time we are in NYC, maybe we can get together so you and Peggy can catch up. By the way, if you are wondering why Peggy isn't typing this herself, it's Saturday morning here and if you know her, then you know she's still asleep. ;-) God bless you, Nicole, and Elkin.
All our love,
Walt and Peggy (Chan)
May 28, 2002
MAY THE YOUNG SOUL OF ELKIN YUEN AND THE SOULS OF ALL THE FAITHFULLY DEPARTED THROUGH THE MERCY OF GOD REST IN PEACE AMEN.
Elkie with John and Fred Berrios, and Grandfather John. (John is the baby in the swing) This is how long we go back.
Fred and John Berrios
March 13, 2002
We miss Elkie very much. On 14th Place we talk of our childhood all the time. We all had some great times especially playing wiffleball. We will miss your contagious laugh. God Bless You and your whole family.
The Berrios Family
Laurie Murphy
March 12, 2002
I will always remember Elkin and his great smile,his laughter. He made everyone laugh all of the time. I was priveledged to know him. My thoughts are with you and know that you made a difference in countless lives.
Love,
Laurie Murphy
Cella Yuen
January 17, 2002
To Everyone:
I'm Elkin's wife and I just want to say thank you for all your thoughts and prayers for Elkin and for me and my family. Elkin was always happy and laughing and I know that is how he would want people to always remember him.
John McCann
December 29, 2001
It still stuns me the senseless loss of life. So many of our fellow traders lives suddenly ended. ELK, I'm proud to have known you. May you be at peace.
God Bless
IRENE
December 7, 2001
GOD BLESS YOU ELKIN YUEN AND MAY YOU
REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY
AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Teresa Jahn
December 2, 2001
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Stephen Schork
October 15, 2001
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Mrs. Olwen Chin
October 10, 2001
Elkin was my husband's cousin and in many ways, his brother. He was a groomsman at our wedding on August 25th of this year - just 2 weeks before this tragedy. On behalf of the entire family we would like to express our condolences to all the families and friends who lost loved ones. We loved Elkin very much and are grateful to have had our wedding when we did so that everyone had a chance to see him one last time in a happy environment. We will mourn his loss forever. Our only comfort is that he is our special guardian angel in heaven...showing us his love in each beautiful day.
God Bless!
Dianne Purdy
October 7, 2001
Please accept my offer of comfort. I did not know Elkin but I feel as if a child of mine has been taken just the same.My prayers are with you every day. May God take you into his arms of comfort.
Sarah Devorah
September 28, 2001
To the family of Elkin Yuen,
No one can feel your pain or help mitigate your great and senseless loss. As a mother and daughter, I can only tell you how sad I am. When I think of my parents who are now gone, I think of the good times we shared and know that they are still with me in spirit. May God bless you and your family. Sarah Devorah
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