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Diane Urban Obituary
It was her best trait and her worst: Diane Urban said what she thought, whether you wanted to hear it or not. The habit was so well known that a relative suggested at her memorial service that they all get T-shirts saying, "Diane Urban Told Me Off."
Sometimes the target of her sharp tongue was an underperforming subordinate at the New York State Department of Taxation, where she rose to No. 2 in the income tax division. Sometimes it was her superiors. Once, she told them she was sick of training accountants only to have them leave for better salaries. "If I wanted to be a teacher, I would have been one," she said.
Ms. Urban, 50 and divorced for more than 20 years, could also be tart with the men in her life. And she tested the patience of her sister, Terry Corio, who withdrew from their relationship for a few years, drained by Ms. Urban's truth-telling. "She never backed down," Mrs. Corio said. "She was a pistol."
But the sisters always loved each other, Mrs. Corio said, and reunited last year. Ms. Urban had recently realized her dream of buying a home on Long Island, not far from her sister and brother-in-law. The sisters had their nails done together, recently splurging an extra $5 to have tiny flowers painted on their wine-colored toes. They were looking forward to pizza and rented movies on Saturday nights this winter.
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John Calderone
September 10, 2021
Dear Terry,
I have been trying to find the right time to reach out to you and offer our condolences. Waiting 20 years has not made it any easier after all.
I grew up across the street from your Lake Carmel home. My Mom and Dad loved your parents. My Mom said they decided to name my sister after your Diane. Mom always told me how nice you are and how she missed your family after you moved away. My father and I were so touched when your sister surprised us by driving all the way to Lake Carmel for GrandmaCarmella's wake. Diane was very kind, loving, and supportive. We have been blessed to have your family in our lives. My Dad looked up to your Dad as his mentor. I just want you to know you have been in my prayers and will continue to be. God Bless you and your family. Love, John Calderone
CYNTHIA K URBAN
September 12, 2020
September 11, 2020
Diane Marie Urban, I heard your name read today to honor you.
You became a hero that day by helping someone who needed help.
We applaud you and say " Thank you from the heart."
Cynthia K Urban (Yucaipa, CA)
September 14, 2016
remembered
September 11, 2014
13th Anniversary today. RIP my friend you still are truly missed.
Carmela
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Diane Kusenback
September 11, 2014
While listening to the names being read on this13th remembrance of that horrible morning, I heard her name. It gave me chills, as my name is also Diane Marie. As I just read her obituary, I couldn't help but think, I wish I had known her, I think we would've gotten along great! Speaking our minds, must be a Diane Marie thing. My condolences to you on this day & every other day without her in your lives. She was beautiful.
Diane Kusenback
September 11, 2014
While listening to the names being read on this13th remembrance of that horrible morning, I heard her name. It gave me chills, as my name is also Diane Marie. As I justread her obituary, I couldn't help but think, I wish I had known her, I think we would've gotten along great! Speaking our minds, must be a Diane Marie thing. My condolences to you on this day & every other day with her in your lives. She was beautiful.
jim O'Donnell
June 9, 2014
I met Her Family at the 4 Freedoms Park on Roosevelt Island on Sunday , June 8TH,2014. the Freedom Tower is visable from there,they spoke of Her and I looked the story up of Her brave actions. Its a wonderful story but very sad.
February 27, 2013
Dear Diane,
Its been awhile since I have visited this site. Today I found something you gave me that belonged to you and the fond memories of our friendship filled my heart. I think of you often and miss you very much. You are a special person and the world has missed much of your greatness. Rest in peace my friend.
Carmela Frezzi
Liz
December 14, 2012
RIP Diane. You are a real hero!
Damian
July 24, 2012
R.I.P Diane. You will be missed.
Gary Urban
September 11, 2011
Rest in Peace. One of so many taken too soon.
Major Gary Urban, USAF Retired
Jane Esposito
June 22, 2011
I grew up with Diane in Long Island City. We were very close friends. I remember her going away during the summer to Lake Carmel, and I would have to stay behind and oh how I missed her. We wrote to each other all through the summer, and I remember when Diane returned how happy I was. You will not be missed. Happy 60th Birthday! My special friend.
francine cerbone
June 22, 2011
This is Francine,Dr Pallays asst. I pray for Diane and all our patients and friends lost on that terrible day. Love and prayers with you Theresa.
Doug Abraham
May 1, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Jeannette Rosa
September 16, 2008
I was a classmate of Diane at St. Joseph's High School, graduating together in 1968. I was so saddened to learn of her death at the World Trade Center and will always remember what a vibrant, happy and helpful student she was. I vividly remember her jet black hair and how all the girls loved her geometric haircut!! She always went out of her way to assist girls who needed help and it is such a tragic loss.
Just another sad American
September 11, 2008
I never met you or heard your name while you lived...I live far away. But I will never forget you. We must always remember.
Doug Abraham
May 1, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
September 11, 2007
I too am from Malverne and am deeply sorry for having lost you on this the 6th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy. May you rest in peace, always.
P Tabbernor
April 4, 2007
In memory....
Joyce A Urba Ph.D.
September 11, 2006
I read Diane Maria's memorial today on the fifth anniversary of September 11th. We shared last names that begin with a U and I read the memorials of those victims whose names began with a U. I pray for her and honor her today. God Bless her and her family.
Joyce Urba
CATHY CASTAGNA
September 11, 2003
I AM A GRADUATE OF ST JOES, (1968) I DIDN'T KNOW DIANNE BUT I AM SO SORRY THAT SHE WAS A VICTIM OF THAT HORRIBLE DISASTER ON 9/11/01. GOD BLESS HER FAMILY AND GIVE THEM THE STRENGTH TO CARRY ON. SHE IS YOUR ANGEL WATCHING OVER YOU I AM SURE. I AM VERY SORRY THIS HAS HAPPENED.
Mark Urban
December 22, 2002
I did not know Diane but since we shared the same name I have her name on my 9/11 bracelet. Even though I did not know her I will always think of her as a hero.
Sandra Huble
September 10, 2002
Hello family of Diane Maria Urban.
My son attends Saint Pius High School here in Houston Texas, he is a freshman this year...YIKES!.
I am writing to you as part of a program the school has set up so that we could write the families of loved ones lost in the tragedy of last September.
I actually have a lot in common with Diane in that I believe in telling the truth, I am divorced, and look forward to hopefully buying my own home soon.
I've never been to New York but I do hope to be able to visit there some day.
I'm out of a job right now so I'd better get back to the searching but I wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless!!!
Sandra
Angie Campbell
May 29, 2002
May God Bless you and watch over the family and friends that you left behind that horrible morning last September. I will never forget what happened. May you rest in peace forever more..........
May 15, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL WOMAN..DIANE MARIA URBAN AND MAY HER SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HER LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA..MAY JESUS AND ST.MARIA GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Carmela Frezzi
May 1, 2002
Dear Diane,
Today is your 51st Birthday. Happy Birthday in heaven. You are truly and deeply missed and very much loved.
We have been friends for twenty years and I have treasured that friendship with all my heart. I am glad God gave us that last embrace outside the World Trade Center one week before this terrible tragedy.
On Sept.11th I was on vacation from my job at 5 World Trade center when I watched this unbelievable event unfold. I immediately thought of you, ran to the phone to express my concern and three days later I received a call from your sister confirming my worst fears.
I will always have my memories of the good times we had, and I will never forget the antics at the Tax Dept.
Rest in peace my friend. Thank you for all you have taught me, for your sincerity, and your love. You will never be forgotten.
Love,
Carmela
Anne Grosser
April 28, 2002
I had the good fortune to get to know Diane at the women's yoga retreats which I co-lead with Rachel Gluckstein. Diane attended 10 of these retreats over the last 10 years. We were able to see the softer side of Diane, and enjoy her generosity of spirit, her spunk and her caring. Diane was especially drawn to Wisdom House, a Catholic Retreat Center in Litchfield, CT, and for 2 years in a row, Diane spontaneously raised money from our yoga group to donate to Wisdom House. Next weekend, we will be at Wisdom House again, sadly this time without Diane. We are raising funds for a new garden at Wisdom House, which will be set near the Labyrinth, where she loved to walk. There will be a plaque put there in Diane's name. If you would like to contribute, please send funds in Diane's name to Sister Rosemary, Wisdom House, 229 East Litchfield Rd., Litchfield, CT. 06759. Thank you!
Liz Sanchez
January 21, 2002
I knew Diane when she first came to work for NYS. I worked with her for several years. She was a fine and wonderful person. God bless you, my friend.
Cindy Strauss
January 15, 2002
I had the pleasure of being in a yoga class with Diane for many years. Because we were of a similar size we often partnered together for certain postures. Even though I didn't know her as the world knows us, I heard her sigh a thousand times. We shared a special healing and touching together that are hard to put into words, if you don't practice yoga.
The first time I walked into class and looked at Diane's usual spot, I had a very hard time. But, my husband and I greatly honor her death. She made the only choice that Love and Yoga teaches--to lay down her life for a friend. Namaste.
JC Silvagni
January 3, 2002
To Maria's Family, May you always cherish an honest 'tongue'. For you see, that with the honesty comes sincere, true, unwavering love. No doubt Maria loved life and wanted the most from it not only for herself but from those she loved and cherished. We, as a Nation, mourn the loss of such vibrant lives and shall never forget the price which you have paid for Honesty and Freedom.
M Edwards
January 2, 2002
The last time I saw Diane was at the Tax Department's TaxPo gathering in 1999. I can still remember how she greeted me, with a BIG smile, and a warm hug. Of course, she immediately started chattering away. I am sitting here on this day, January 2, 2002, with tears in my eyes. I think my tears are fueled by several emotions, including anger and helplessness. I am having a hard time absorbing the fact that innocents like Diane were the victims of such cruelty. I sincerely hope we do not forget this. I know that my pain is not even close to the pain her family must feel. This tells me that their pain must be tremendous. I am sorry. I wish it could be otherwise. Sincerely, Margarita
Teresa Jahn
December 8, 2001
I see by the picture of Diane that she had a fabulous smile. It is very warm looking. I am sure all of you miss it along with her sassy attitude and for that I am very sorry. I know the world is crying with you in your loss.
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
James Leone
October 16, 2001
Although I did not know Diane Urban, I'm friends with 2 of her friends, who were deeply saddened by her passing. She was also a former parishioner at our church, St. Mel's in Flushing. We attended her funeral Mass on Saturday, October 13, at St. Mel's. In his homily, Father Jim asked her family and friends, to think about "who and what" Diane was, and not to dwell on "why" this happened. Her brother-in-law also gave a very sincere and moving eulogy. My deepest sympathy, and my prayers go to Diane's family and friends. I am confident that the Lord was with her in her final hours, and came to take her home immediately. She enjoys peace and perfection, for ever more.
Royce Wolff
October 15, 2001
I'm the sister-in-law of Dianne Gladstone, the friend Diane stayed with in order to help her. She will always be remembered as a hero and a true friend.
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