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Ronnie Gies Obituary
One of the most difficult times in Ronnie E. Gies's life came two years ago, when his family's home in Merrick, on Long Island, burned down.
It was not so much the destruction that upset Firefighter Gies, 43, of Squad 288 in Maspeth, Queens, but the fact that he was suddenly the recipient of favors and good will from neighbors, instead of being the benefactor. "It was very difficult for him to be receiving and not giving," said his wife, Carol. "Someone would call at 3 in the morning because their toilet was clogged, and Ronnie was there."
Luckily, Firefighter Gies was also a carpenter. With a little help, in six months he built the family a new home, with a basement big enough to serve as hang-out headquarters for his sons, Thomas, 18; Ronnie, 16; and Robert, 14; and their friends.
A couple of years ago, Firefighter Gies took the lieutenant's test, after studying for hours at the dining room table. Recently, Mrs. Gies was told her husband had been pegged for a promotion on Sept. 10. "It meant a lot to him to be promoted," Mrs. Gies said. "He never knew."
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Corey hopkins
September 10, 2023
I will always love and miss my uncle Ronnie I know he in heaven looking down on his family and we know he passed away doing what he loved fighting fires and saving lives knowing he always put his life on the line miss you and love you corey hopkins
Rich Conti
September 6, 2021
Twenty years now. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten. Rest Easy Brother,
Rich Conti
September 11, 2017
16 years. Never to be forgotten.
Greg F
September 9, 2016
Miss ya Ronnie. One of the best human beings you could ever meet. The greatest model of a husband, father, and friend.
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Rich Conti
September 8, 2016
15 years. So long ago, yet yesterday. I have no words this year. May God Bless and Protect your family.
September 7, 2016
Thinking of your family. Your boys left a lasting impression on the Calhoun Colt family. They continue to make you and all of us proud..
November 28, 2015
A friend of mine just text me that she met one of you below that wrote on Ronnie's page but wished to remain unnamed. With respect, I wish I knew you name to personally thank you for participating, all of you, in events honoring Ronnie.
I live next door to Carol, Ronnie & the boys. Ronnie was such an unselfish, generous man that I'm sure all those FDNY men lost that day were... It was in there "being" to help others... And that's what they did that dreadful day.
But those terrorists won't win.. Life goes on... All 3 of his sons are married and doing great! Better if dad was here... But doing great and dad would be soooo proud!
So thank you to all who hold Ronnies name I THANK YOU.
Love, Aunt Christine
Deb Lay
October 1, 2015
I carried Ronnie with me on my 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison CO. It was an honor!
Carol
September 12, 2015
Today I participated in the Sept 11 Memorial stair climb at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI. I was given Ronnie's name to carry with me as I walked the stairs. I prayed for his wife Carol and his boys and thanked every firefighter I saw participating in the stair climb for the courage they display each day at work to protect others. Well done, Ronnie. Well done. And a heartfelt "thank you" to firefighters everywhere.
Rich Conti
September 12, 2015
Another year, brother. Always remembered.
John Szczech
October 28, 2014
ALWAYS REMEMBER , NEVER FORGET !!!!!
Rich conti
September 7, 2014
Another year. God Bless you Ronnie
Paul Zipes
September 6, 2014
I just completed a 9/11 Memorial 110 floor stair climb in Panama City, Florida. Every participant was given a name badge with the name and photo of one of the 343 who died to wear during the stair climb. I had Ronnie's name and want to see who he was. RIP Ronnie Gies.
Corey Hopkins
February 20, 2014
I'm so proud to call you my uncle
Brittany L
September 11, 2013
My Grandpa Rudolf was really close to Ronnie..he keeps his picture on his desk & one time I asked him about it & he cried while he told me the story. They worked together in the Merrick Dep.. We watched my grandpas going away video in 1995 & Ronnie gave the speech. He cried & waved goodbye. thank you Ronnie for being a good friend to my grandpa for so many years. He'll never forget you! RIP
Philip Broach
September 11, 2012
Just watched a tribute to 9-11 and viewed video of Ronnie walking with his crew toward the tower. I stopped the DVR and got his squad number and was able to identify him on this site,,, God Bless a courageous person like Ronnie risking his life, not knowing if he was going to come back alive,,,, but being brave and doing what he knew to do, to save others lives... God Bless him, his wife and their sons...
Scott O
September 11, 2012
I had the privilege of "sponsoring" Ronnie Gies in this years Sept. 11th Stair climb at Red Rocks in Morrison, CO. It was absolutely that, a privlege. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. May you rest in peace.
Joe Musa
September 11, 2012
Thinking of you all on this awful day...All our love and prayers
Joe M
September 11, 2012
Still Remembered.
Kayla
September 15, 2011
I organized a candlelight vigil on my campus for the 10th year anniversary. Every candle had a wax guard with 3 names written on it. I vowed when I got back to a computer to look up those names and read about the men and woman to whom they belonged. My prayers are with Ronnie's family.
Tim Renck
September 12, 2011
On 9/11/2011 I was honored to be able to wear a picture of Ronnie around my neck while completing the stair climb in Denver, Colorado. Myself and 4 other coworkers made the trip to Denver to climb these stairs to ensure that these men will never be forgotten. It was a privilege to be able to do this for you Ronnie Gies, you will never be forgotten.
Carole Artino
September 11, 2011
Every September 11th I think of and remember the sacrifice that Ronnie Gies made on that day. I knew him because two of his sons, Tommy and Ronnie, were my students. My heart goes out to his family. He'd be so proud of his three sons who are following in his path. May God bless and keep his family in the coming years.
Rich Conti
September 11, 2011
Ronnie, you were a brash young kid with a zeal for firefighting those many years ago when we first met. Now 10 years have past since you and your brothers answered their final alarm. As we remember your sacrifice, we thank God for New York's Bravest.
God Bless you and your family
God Protect your sons as they continue in your footsteps.
Ex Captain Rich Conti
Empire Hose Co #3
John Bower
September 10, 2011
On 9/10/11, I completed the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in Redwood City, California. 343 firefighers, police officers and Emergency personnel from the San Francisco Bay Area each pinned the name of a deceased New York firefighter on the back of their shirt or turnout jacket and climbed 110 stories of a building in our area in rememberance. I wore Ronnie's name on the back of my shirt. It was an honor to do so. Officer J. Bower, South San Francisco Police Department. For more info, check out www.redwood-city911stairclimb.com
Rebecca B.
September 9, 2011
I too have a bracelet with Ronnie Gies' name on it. I am wearing it not to serve as a reminder, as I've never forgotten that day. I keep it as a tribute to a man that I never met. A man that served his family, community, and his country and ultimately lost his life in a heroic attempt to save the lives of others. To the family, I want to thank you and offer my heartfelt condolences to you as I can never fully understand your loss. Ronnie Gies was not only a hero, this man was a father, husband, uncle, and role model to those around him and the loss of this must be devastating. I do sincerely hope that the past 10 years have allowed some healing for the family. And I hope you know that as strange as it may seem, Ronnie Gies and all of the other innocent victims of that terrible day in September, 10 years ago, actually gave me something positive to believe in. And that belief is despite the wretched actions of those that caused this nightmarish chaos, there is still good in people. And Ronnie Gies was one of those people. Thank you for that.
Jill W
September 9, 2011
Good Morning,
I ran with your husband/father/friend's name on my chest this morning, at a POW/MIA/9-11 Rememberance Run in Sigonella, Sicily (U.S. Navy base here).
I am also a blogger and posted about the run, you can read about it here: http://cinquecentoproject.wordpress.com/2011/09/09/running-and-powmia9-11-rememberance-run/.
I'm so sorry for your loss and feel privileged to have honored Mr. Gies' memory this morning.
Donna Champagne
August 15, 2011
I have been wearing a bracelet with Ronnie Gies's name on it for 10 years. Would like to leave it to his family someday, but I don't know anything about his family.
Gil Hazel
May 26, 2011
I worked at JFK for Delta Airlines with Ronnie in the seventies. He was a smart and very hard worker, and a family first man. GOD BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY
Stephen Conklin
May 26, 2011
The last time I saw Ronnie he walked up behind me when he dropped a rig off at Eng 266. I worked with Ronnie in 14 Engine on east 18th Street. He was dedicated to fellow firefighter and helping people. Always had a smile, miss you Bro Stephen Conklin
April 25, 2011
ronnie good man you are missed agood freind chris cantwell
Harry O'onnor
February 27, 2011
Charlene and I will always remember you from the Bellmore K of C, your smiling and your willingness to help. We think of you and your family often, and all of you in our prayers.
Joe Musacchio
September 10, 2010
Carol, Tommy, Ronnie, Bobby...as this awful day approaches again..You are all in my thoughts and prayers...
All my love,
Joe Musacchio,
Jennifer Pagano
December 21, 2009
Ronnie Gies. Although I only met you a few times, I feel like we were relatives. Our mother's were best friends, Bevy and Dorraine. I remember visiting your home with my mom several times when you were home and thinking what a cute kid you were and what a fine young man you would be someday. I was probably 8 or 9 and you only 12 or 13. So sad that your life was so short. You are a hero and I am proud to have known you. Someday, we will meet again. My prayers are with you and your family.
nicole
September 10, 2009
Well it's been 8 years uncle ronnie. and i'm sitting here hysterical crying. i know you wouldn't want me to be upset but i just can't help it. i miss you and love you more and more everyday. you will always be in my heart and you will forever be my hero. i love you *11524*<333
Ron Delgiudice
March 27, 2009
Carol
I just wanted to let you know how very sorry i am for you and your family..I can tell from all the mentions what good man and farther your husband was. Our prayers are with you and your family..
Diana Gould
September 21, 2008
After all these years I am happy to have found this tribute to Ronnie. I still remember the boy from Kennedy and his sister Valerie. Thinking of Ronnie and grateful that his heroism touched others. Diana Gould
Steve Michaels
September 11, 2008
7 years and the loss is still profound. Know that your legacy lives on in three very brave boys all of whom are firefighters.Nicole and Dan still miss their Uncle as do I
Edith Sutterlin
September 10, 2008
For your family, I pray that with time comes healing, and the deepening of appreciation for all that your lost husband and father was to you. He gave and sacrificed for others. We cannot begin to know your pain and sadness, but we pray for the miracle of comfort and the strength found in your memories. It is not only on Sept. 11th that I think of Ronnie's service to his community (and what turned out to be for all of our country), but I remember all our firefighters when I look at his memorial flag that I keep to his tribute.
Edith Sutterlin
September 11, 2007
Time cannot heal your loss, but hopefully the sharing of your memories will give you comfort. I never knew Ronnie Gies, but still have the flag from the Sept. 11th memorial service in 2002 in Pittsburgh, and I keep your family in my prayers.
Dominique Casiello
September 11, 2007
To the Gies family.
Thinking of you today, God bless you. im sure it doesnt get easier after 6 years. Your father (and husband) was a great man, may he rest in peace
my uncle ronnie
corey hopkins
May 24, 2007
hey uncle i hope ur puttin out fires up in heaven and we all miss u
Kristine
November 3, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
October 20, 2006
In memory....
windsor high school student
August 31, 2006
even though i don't know you im just letting you know i appericate what you did for NYPD you will always live in your love ones hearts you will never be forgotten
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
Claudia Hall
September 11, 2003
Carol,
Thinking of you & the boys on the second anniversary of 9-11. My thoughts & prayers are with you today and every day. Remember, I'm here for you.......
Love,
Claudia
maria luisa g lardizzone
September 11, 2003
We will never forget you
Squad 288 Hazmat 1...
U. Pitt. Cathedral of Learning lawn memorial of flags
Edith Sutterlin
August 30, 2003
To the whole family,
At a University of Pittsburgh memorial service on Sept. 11, 2002, there stood a flag for each person who had died. Afterwards, we were invited to take them home. Ronnie's flag has been in my home or in my front yard in memorial. I thought this year you might like to also know that his flag went with us to celebrate the 4th of July in Williamsburg, VA, and will be available with these memorial pages for people to see in our front yard on Sept. 11th this year. May God Bless his memory and your family's future.
Paul Gies
February 5, 2003
To the Gies family:
I am truly sorry for your great loss.
Although I do not know any of you personally I feel we have a certain connection by our surname Gies.
I just wanted to say sorry for your loss and God Bless all of you.
Paul Gies
Dan Haggerty
September 11, 2002
Ronnie and I lived across the street from each other from the age of 5 to 20 something when I entered the Air Force after college. We basically grew up together, and I can honestly say that I spent more time in his house than mine. His dad, Elmer, taught me just about every useful thing I know, from how to repair an automoble to handling a boat to hanging drywall. I was there when Elmer cut his fingers off in the lawnmower (mine), when we painted the telephone pole red, white and blue for the bicentennial in 1976(it still has the paint on it), when the corvette plowed into all of the Gies cars in the middle of the night in front of our house and scared us all to death. His mom, Dorraine was a second mom to me. Linda, Valerie and Billy were all just like siblings. I literally grew up in their house. Ronnie and I played thousands of games of baseball, football and basketball together in front of our houses and down at the schoolyard with the usual cast of characters (Phil LoFaso, Pat Zydor, Mark Lockley and others). Playing sports was our lives. Even when I was off to college in PA, in the summers we all played softball together for a local bar team. Never could get enough baseball. Now, in my forties, I have been coaching Little League baseball for 6 years, and I know Ronnie had been doing the same. We loved to play ball as kids, and I know he coached for the same reasons I do...we love to teach kids how to play, play well, and love the game. It is all for the kids. I never really knew Ronnie's children, but at the funeral, hearing them speak, I heard Ronnie's voice talking to me again. Those are some very fine, mature young men, and it is very apparent they have the same wonderful qulities that their dad had. Utterly selfless, utterly dependable. Ronnie was the guy who would always be there when you needed him, who would do anything for you. The guy who thinks of others before himself. I will always remember Ronnie as the brother I never had. I pray for Carol and the kids daily, and pray that Dorraine, Linda, Valerie and Billy can find comfort in knowing that their son/brother was a truly wonderful, unique man that gave his life so that others may live. As a proud veteran, I do not think there is any higher honor. God bless America. May God bless Ronnie Gies.
Matt Bartush
September 11, 2002
Today, 9/11/2002, I participated in an event called the Rolling Requiem in Sacramento, CA. Choirs from around the world sang Mozart's Requiem to remember those we lost a year ago. Before the concert each singer was given a name to read, a name of one of the victims of the attacks. The name I was given was Ronnie E. Gies.
Wanting to know about the person to whom this name belonged, I turned to the Internet and found some wonderful information about this man. As I learned about his bravery, his love for his family and friends and the circumstances surrounding his last hours, I am honored to have been the one to remember this hero on this date.
Though I never met Ronnie, my condolences go out to his family and friends. I want you to know that today he was in my thoughts, the thoughts of a stranger thousands of miles away.
Rest in Peace, Ronnie. Requiem aeternam.
Nicola Fitzpatrick
September 11, 2002
Dear Mrs. Gies and Sons,
It's hard to believe that it has been year already, my son and I will be saying a prayer for your family, I don't know what to say but I now how I feel, even though it has been so long I still feel the same when I first herd that the World Trade Centre had been hit , I'll have to keep this short as I am in work but I still haven't forgotten you and your sons.
May the Lord keep you safe,
May he always look upon you,
Take care Carol, I'll light a candle in church for all your family especially for your husband.
Dawn Felice
September 9, 2002
I think about the phrase, "I can't believe it's been a year already" and it triggers so many emotions inside. The past year has been heart-wrenching. It sometimes feels like the pain will never end and our sense of security will never be regained. Although it's been a year, it's still so fresh in our memories. And to our family, the fact that a year had passed still doesn't seem to bring any solace.
This horrible thing has made me realize so much. Carol, Tommy, Ronnie, Bobby--you are an example of strength to all and what being a family is all about. Carol, I being the "young one" of our cousins, have grown to admire the companionship that you and Ronnie shared. The love you had for each other, the way you looked at each other, the wonderful family and home you created-it's every girls dream.
Tommy, Ronnie, Bobby-your father was the epitome of what a father should be and it is evident that he instilled his numerous amazing qualities in each of you.
I've seen your husband and father in my dreams and he has assured me that he will always be with us. Even in my dreams, he is exactly the same way he was the last time I saw him--striking blue eyes, smiling as usual and that mustache that felt scruffy against my cheek when I kissed him hello. Exactly the way he'll always be remembered--in my mind and in my heart.
God bless you. I love you with all my heart,
Dawn
Gail malone,and family
September 8, 2002
Carol, and boys, sometimes we don't understand.There are too many questions to even make sense of anything.I am a friend of Ali's, and Billy's, I have kept you and you beautiful family close to my heart for nearly one year now.I met you once, though you probably would not remember when.You and your family will always have a special place and prayer in my heart, although you may not understand that.Your wonderful husband Ronnie is kept alive in Ali and Billy,Though you may not understand this I will always love you and you family.I will continue to pray for your strength, and will.Always.God Bless You....Always
Catherine Sheehan
September 5, 2002
Carol,
You probably don't remember me - it's been a while (7 years to be exact) but I just wanted to express my heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.....
Ronnie was and always will be a hero.
Cathy Sheehan
HARRY OCONNCR
July 16, 2002
IF THERE ANY ICAN HELP PLEASE LET ME KNOW GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Allison Mecabe
May 31, 2002
I have never and will never be the same since my dear, handsome, blue-eyed, uncle, was taken from us. I have not only been in an incredible sense of denial but I still cannot believe that Uncle Ronnie is not here anymore. I never in a million years thought that this would ever happen, especially to this man. He was a hardworking gentleman who loved my Aunt Carol and his boys so much. As I grow older I always think about how I would want my husband to love me as much as my uncle adored my aunt. I remember seeing a change from an uncle- niece relationship to a friend-friend relationship when my uncle and aunt took Michael and I out to dinner when I got my first teaching job. I really saw what an incredible frindship that I had with my aunt and uncle that night. I prayed and prayed and denied and denied until Uncle Ronnie was found that night. I wanted him to be found- found alive. I wanted to hear him laugh and say, "What were you all worried about?" I know that we all wanted him home but we wanted him home alive. Many times, I still am waiting for Uncle Ronnie to come home. I wait sometimes wishing that I would hear that there was a terrible mistake made. I am so proud of my uncle. As the oldest niece I can't help to constantly think how much he will be missed and is missed in our families lives. I know that my grampy was waiting for my uncle that morning at the gates. My uncle was probably so happy to his dad after so many years. Not a day goes by that I do not think about my uncle. I am so proud of him but I am so upset for him becasue I know that he did not want this to happen. So many people say that he would have wanted it no other way. Everywhere I go there always seems to be someone who knew this man. Everyone has nothing but nice things to say, especially about what a great dad, husband and volunteer he was. As I drive past Friendship I always am waiting to see him in the parking lot giving me that wave as I drove past. I miss seeing those few pieces of hair that always stuck up. I miss his smell. I miss his eyes. I miss his strong hands that he could build anything with. I miss his smart-ass remarks that he always made to me, especially about how "fresh" I was or how he shook his head at me. I miss telling him things about work and him saying, "You have to be kidding you don't even work a full year. I tell everyone to become a teacher." I miss seeing him sitting right next to Aunt Carol on the couch petting the dogs. I miss seeing him with his jeans, shirts and perfectly parted hair. I miss seeing him at the firehouse dinners. I miss seeing him dance with my aunt at those dinners. I miss going over and sitting with my aunt while Mike and Uncle Ronnie talked. I just cannot belive this loss. Everyday- I cannot beleieve that he will never be here. All I know is that he will always be in my heart and in my memories. I love my uncle and I am so proud of him- I just miss him terribly.
Jill
May 2, 2002
Carol, Bobby, Tommy, Ronnie-
You are in my daily thoughts and prayers. And, I know Ronnie is watching over and guiding you, always. -JP
Nicola Fitzpatrick
May 1, 2002
My thoughts and condolence go to you and your son's, your probably wondering why I am sending this - well I was just browsing through CNN reading the news and I came across your your husbands picture. After reading his article I was very touched. The most I can say is I amazed at how strong you can be not only for yourself but for your son's aswell and that it a great quality for someone to have, my thoughts will always be you and your boys. I wish all the best for future.
Yours sincerely
Nicola
Dublin
Ireland
Angie Campbell
April 26, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Frank Moser
March 26, 2002
I received a bracelet with Lt. Geis's name engraved. I will wear it with pride in remembrance of Ronnie, 911 and the brave men who gave their lives that day.
Carrie Cullen
March 25, 2002
Carol, I think of you and Ronnie and your handsome boys every single day. I know you are a strong person (even if you don't always feel strong)and I know you and Ronnie had a solid and loving marriage--it shows in your kids. Although Mike and Tommy did not see each other so much in the recent past as they had before, Mike has always considered Tommy his migraine "buddy"--the only one who really understood those painful times in high school. We heard Tommy speak at the memorial and were blown away by his eloquence and love for his father that he expressed. I am sure Ronnie had already been very proud of him and all his sons, but I was proud that day. I am proud to know such a fine, upstanding family. This would not be possible without the caring upbringing you and Ronnie gave your kids. They will take that part of your marriage with them no matter where they go in this life. Take care, Carol, You have been truly blessed. Love, your friend, Carrie
lynn kornya
March 23, 2002
Dear carol and boys,
It has been my great fortune to have spent the past few days with your dear friend Jodi Simmons. She has been so inspiring when speaking about your family. You have a very proud legacy of strength, honor, and love of family to continue in memory of your very brave and dedicated husband. He truly was a hero and you and your boys will be a living example of his values.
Sincerely,
Lynn Kornya
A Friend
March 22, 2002
Dear God...
Please, give Carol the strength to get through this difficult time.
She is the strongest person I have ever met.
But, you can hear in her voice that her heart is broken.
I will never ask you for anything else if you can only help her now.
Charlie Viana
March 21, 2002
To Ronnie's family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. He was such a hero to risk his life for his city,state and country. He will never be forgotten.
I'm sure he's in heaven talking with his dad and watching over all of you. And I'm sure his father has him laughing , just like he made us all laugh. Your son is a hero Elmer, take him under your wings and watch over all of us until we meet again. Peace...Charlie Viana
John Delano
March 13, 2002
My name John Delano I was chief of the Massapequa F.D. from 1994 to 1996. Ronnie was Chief of Merrick around the same time. We went to allot of Chief meetings and conventions together. Ronnie was a good man one of the best and he was a grate firefighter. Ronnie always made me lough. We had allot of good time together back then. I will miss him deeply. My sympathy goes out to his wife and family. I will always remember him. We are brothers forever.
Jodi and Bill May
March 11, 2002
We hope that time will ease your pain and sorrow.
Our hearts go out to the entire Gies family -- May God Bless.
A Friend From Merrick
March 10, 2002
Each and everyday I think of you,and your loved ones. I pray for your peace, and strength for your family to continue on this journey. May God Bless You Always!
Bruce Volpe
February 13, 2002
I was saddened to hear of the loss of Ronnie, I lived in Merrick when i was a boy and often played sports with Ron in the Birch school fields.I remember those thiry some odd years ago like yesterday and will never forget his fantastic sense of humor.I have lived in Pa. for 30 years now and am an Ex-Chief of a local vol.fire dept. I may never have seen Ronnie again,were he still with us,but i'm sure I will miss him that much more knowing he is no longer with us. He gave his life as a rescuer and should never be forgotten! My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Rest in peace brother.
Traci Cornwell
January 25, 2002
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Gies family ~ Even though I only met Ronnie a few times I could see that he was a caring and gentle man and always seemed to shine. God Bless You All......
Nicole Simmons
January 21, 2002
I love my uncle very much. He was really nice. He was a hero. He loved me so much. I miss him very much. Aunt Carol misses him a lot too and the boys too. My uncle was the best uncle he could be. He was the best fireman I knew (except for my dad). I love you Uncle Ronnie and I know you're watching us from heaven. Love, Nicole
Jill Pall
January 21, 2002
I know that Ronnie's great spirit will live on through his boys and Carol. I know this because I've seen it. Ronnie John, Tommy, Bobby(my amazing little buddy) and Carol, you exemplify the words strength and family. Ronnie is my hero-- today, tomorrow and always. I love you guys. -Jill
steven michaels
January 21, 2002
I have known Ronnies wife carol for over 30 years she is my sisters best friend. Their boys are like family to my family. I have known Ronnie for over 20 years. He was one of the finest individuals i have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He was a loving husband and father who could not do enought for his wife and boys. Watching them go throught this terrible tregedy it was apparent that their great love and strenght of family helped them to get through this. I have never been so moved by the courage that Carol and her boys displayed. They have so much to be proud of. He was repsected and trusted by thise he worked with. a firemans fireman in every sense of the word.Their boys called my sister aunt and she married Ronnies best friend and so their lives are forever entwined. New york lost one of their best, a family lost a husband, and father we all lost a truly wonderful person.He will never be forgoten and will always be in our hearts and his legacy will live on in three incredible boys that surly will become three wonderful men.
Nigel Glover
January 3, 2002
I was sent a dog tag with Ronnie's name on it. I have hung it on my Christmas tree. Afterwards, it will hang in my computer room. We in England will always remember the heroes of that terrible day. God Bless Them.
Teresa Jahn
December 30, 2001
We thank Ronnie for all he did for others as a firefighter. Such a profession comes with a brave, warm and loving heart. May Ronnie's courage, life and love live on in those who love him. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of Ronnie.
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
Evelyn Gomez
December 4, 2001
My husband and I met Ronnie through my brother-in-law, Battalion Chief, Richard Alles. Ronnie did a lot of work in our home 7 years ago. Although, we hadn't seen Ronnie since then, we were very distraught to hear of his passing. When Ronnie was working his magic on our home, he would always talk about his wife and boys. His eyes would light up everytime he mentioned them. I met his wife, Carol, at the funeral home in October.The pictures that she had displayed were so filled with love. They were a perfect match! I also had the privilege of hearing his son, Ronnie, speak so eloquently at the memorial service.Ronnie would have been so proud! Ronnie will always be alive in their hearts. I know my husband and I are richer for having had the honor of knowing Ronnie. God Bless and watch over his family.
Pam Lamari
December 4, 2001
To the loving family of Ronnie.
I wear the name of a man I have never met around my wrist and pray daily for the family that he so loved. I believe there is a purpose for everything that happens in this life, God's purpose. Though we may not understand the purpose of His
plan, if we trust in Him, He IS FAITHFUL, and will guide our paths.
The loss is something only you can know, but know this Jesus is here for you, He loves you very much and loves Ronnie, who is probably in His midst right now where there are no tears, pain, saddness or suffering, just joy, peace and happiness. He is watching after you and your strength will come in knowing Him (Jesus).
May God Bless your family and show you the beautiful light of Hope that is here for you.
In Christ
Pam
Bob, Dale, Taylor & Matt Felice
October 24, 2001
We are all so proud of Ronnie for the heroism he showed in saving the lives of so many at the WTC.
But his heroism did not just start on September 11, 2001.
Carol and the boys looked upon him as a hero everyday.
The solid foundation that Carol and Ronnie created in their home has helped carry the family through this most difficult time. This foundation is based on love, respect, discipline, commitment and passion. And it is this foundation that my sister and my nephews will have inside of them for the rest of their lives. May they never lose sight of this and may they always have the wisdom to reflect on this foundation when they are in times of need.
God Bless You Ronnie!
Carla Leone
October 21, 2001
Although I didn't know Ronnie, he is a hero to me. I will never see a firefighter again without feeling the deepest respect and admiration. I am so sorry for the physical loss of his presence in the lives of your family; but he still exists - look for him in the beauty in the world, and feel his spirit around you like the arms of love's support. I know he loved you all more than anything. May God Bless you and bring you solace and joy even in this time of grievous sorrow.
Carol Gies
October 20, 2001
Ronnie was the perfect husband and father, best friend and partner, he will forever be in my heart and thoughts. I will love him for the rest of my life and not a day will go by that I don't see him in my dreams. My heart has been broken but for Ronnie I will continue to live my life to the best potential possible and show our boys the best of this world. I will love you and miss you forever and you will always be in my heart. I know you are watching over us and I am always looking for signs from you to let me know I'm doing a good job.
Lost without my love,
Carol
Donna & Dennis Otton
October 19, 2001
Ronnie will always be remembered as a man who loved his family and his job. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family, for now and forever.
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