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George Strauch Obituary
George J. Strauch was, in the words of one friend, "just a regular, great guy" who never did anything halfway.
Mr. Strauch, 53, worked as an insurance broker at Aon at 2 World Trade Center. He commuted there each day from Avon-By-the-Sea in New Jersey because he loved the water and almost any sport connected to water. He was an avid sportsman (golf, fishing, sailing) who often included his wife and daughter on his outings.
`'I met him at 17, married him at 22 and never looked back," said his wife, Virginia. "He listened to people. He was a wonderful boss. He loved the Yankees. The rest of it is he and his daughter, the center of his world."
Mrs. Strauch said that Mr. Strauch taught their daughter, Hilary, 12, to play golf so they could play together. He also coached her school basketball team.
Tom Kenny, the friend who called Mr. Strauch regular and great, said that Hilary's birth after 15 years of marriage completed Mr. Strauch's life. He already had career success, a good marriage, his sports. He brought the same intensity to parenting that he brought to everything else. "Whatever he got into, he got into it all the way," Mr. Kenny said.
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on February 3, 2002.
George Strauch, 53, sea was his passion In exchange for living steps from the sea, George John Strauch enthusiastically endured a four- hour round trip commute to the World Trade Center that began at 5:30 a.m. each weekday.
An insurance executive for 30 years, the 53-year-old Avon resident loved taking his daughter, nieces and nephews fishing for blues or whatever was in season. He delighted in sharing his passion for the sea with his 11-year-old daughter, Hilary.
"George loved to fish. At the drop of a hat he was willing to go fishing," said his sister-in-law, Pat Pitchenik of Fairfield, Conn.
When he wasn't fishing, boating with his friends, swimming or playing golf, Mr. Strauch was coaching his daughter's basketball team or watching his beloved Yankees. He ran the fantasy baseball league for his friends.
Mr. Strauch graduated from the New Jersey Institute of Technology and was a member of the Tau Delta Phi fraternity.
On the morning of Sept. 11, Mr. Strauch arrived at his office on the 99th floor of the World Trade Center by 7:30 a.m. and called his 80-year-old mother, Alma, in Kearny. After the first of the Twin Towers was struck by terrorists, he called his wife of 27 years, Virginia McWatters-Strauch, to say that he was all right. But then his own building was struck by a hijacked jet, and Mr. Strauch was lost when the buildings collapsed.
Mr. Strauch worked in client consulting services for Aon Corp., a Fortune 500 company that has become a world leader in risk management, insurance brokerage and consulting services. He helped clients like the District of Columbia, Black & Decker and Goldman Sachs figure out how to insure themselves against fires, earthquakes or other disasters. His title was National Practice Leader for Risk Control Consulting.
In addition to his wife, daughter, mother and sister-in-law, Mr. Strauch is survived by his sister, Janice Strauch of Ledgewood, and his brother, Robert A. Strauch of Kearny.
A memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in St. Elizabeth's Church in Avon. A second memorial will be held at 2 p.m. Oct. 11 in his childhood church, First Presbyterian Church of Arlington in Kearny.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the George John Strauch Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 194, Avon, N.J. 07717.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Rich Mlcoch
September 12, 2021
George was my fraternity brother at Tau Delta Phi while attending NJIT (NCE). After graduating we all had the fraternity reunion at George and Ginny´s house in Avon. It was always great seeing them as they open their beach home to all of us. I attended George´s memorial mass back in 2001 and every year I remember him and the great times with them. Hope this message fines Ginny and Hilary happy in their lives with beautiful memories of their time with George.
Kathryn Dweck
September 15, 2020
You both are always in my thoughts.❤
Craig Lydiate
September 14, 2020
Remembering George Strauch on 9.1.1 as always.
An American hero, from every angle you look at it. Was an honour to work with him (Aon).
Bob Boxer
September 12, 2020
Thinking of George today. A great friend that I will never forget. I spent this day at the beach and remembered the good times in Belmar!
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Todd Lyle
September 11, 2020
Thinking of you
Kathy Dweck
September 12, 2013
Hey Ginny and Hilary,
Glad I saw this since I only ran into you once this summer! A
Thinking of you, yesterday and always.
September 11, 2013
Thinking of you today George. Your friend, Bob Boxer
Beulah Jones-Houston
September 10, 2013
Hi George!! It's been a while since I was last here but you are always in my thoughts especially today. I still have a picture of you from that Aon/Starwood boat ride on my workstation wall. I really miss working for you as your admin. You were a true gentleman. I will never forget you. My prayers go out to your wife & daughter.
craig lydiate
January 2, 2012
i worked with george for a short time when with aon i spent 3 weeks working in wtc. he was a charming, friendly and helpful man who I instantly liked. A friend of mine from UK recently visited ground zero (i have never returned) and spoke of the solemnity there. all i could think of was george. god bless him.
Watching Memorial.
Kathy Dweck
September 12, 2011
Kathy Dweck
September 12, 2011
Just found out that George was the boss of one of a friend of mine's bother. He happened to be on business in Florida and was the only survivor from the company. I believe his last name was Marshall.
September 11, 2011
Dear Janice and family,this day must be especially hard for you all. Just letting you know Joe and I are thinking of you and we made a point to listen to George's name during the 911 tribute. our love, Jenn and Joe
Bob Kirk
September 11, 2010
I knew George when we were growing up in Kearny. We were in the scouts together and unfortunately later gradually grew apart.
The things that people have said who knew him later in life confirm that he never changed from being a warm wonderful person.
To his family - the sorrow you feel is shared by the many people who were lucky enough to know George.
Janet Y Stephens and kathy Snow Dweck
Kathy Dweck
September 11, 2010
Hi,
Thinking of you both today....knowing that you are successful and happy is the ultimate blessing for George and our country!
Barbara (Garbowski) McAloon
September 7, 2010
Dear Classmate:
I'm sorry to say I just found out this weekend that you were one of the victims of 9-11. I happened to log on to our high school website and noticed the memorial. You might not remember me, but we graduated Kearny High together as part of the Class of '66. As the 9th anniversary of 9-11 approaches, my heart still grieves for all those people ... for those that died and for those they left behind; but this tragedy just became more personal for me. To actually have known someone, a classmate, has just intensified my grief. Although I didn't know Ginny and Hilary, they will be remembered in my prayers, as will you from now on. Rest in peace, dear classmate.
Dana Lingerfelt
August 21, 2009
Hilary, I read an archived story about your father and how you and your mom dealt with his passing. Your father sounded like a wonderful man and you were lucky to have a dad like that. I have a 10 year old daughter and when I look at her now, I will see you. I pray to God you and your mom are well. I bet your dad would be very proud of both of you.
Pat Sadujew
September 11, 2008
Dear Strauch Family,
Years have gone by but my memories of George are as sharp as if I just saw him yesterday - a tribute to the kind of guy he was. George and I worked together on several client projects at Aon. He was a true professional and a stand out star when it came to teaming with people. He was easy to talk to and quick to smile. He was proud of his family and enjoyed sharing stories of them. Today my thoughts are of his family and hope that the years have served to ease the pain of his loss. There are many folks that remember George fondly - and certainly I will always be one on that long list.
Kristine
August 4, 2008
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.
JOHN WARD
September 12, 2007
GEORGE: I'LL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU AS THE FINE MAN YOU ARE. CARING AND LOVING OF GINNY AND HILLARY. YOUR FONDNESS OF THE PEOPLE WHO WORKED WITH YOU. YOUR CALM INTELECT THAT WAS REASSURING TO MANY CLIENTS AND ASSOCIATES IN BUSINESS, WHO WERE ALSO FRIENDS.
I PIPED AGAIN TODAY,AS EACH YEAR SINCE I SURVIVED GROUND ZERO, WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN MY HEART AND PRAYERS.
I WILL CONTINUE AND REMEMBER YOUR SMILE, WHEN YOU AN HILLARY WERE AT THE BELMAR ST.PATRICK'S DAY PARADE,ANDI DID MY BEST,WITH FROZEN PIPES,TO PLAY A TUNE.
THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE GEORGE!
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR BEAUTIFUL FAMILY.
SINCERELY,
JOHN
Jennifer Liberatore
September 11, 2007
Mr. Strauch,
It has been my honor to read about your life and that of your wife and daughter. The world has changed so much since you've left; it needs a lot more people such as you. I hope those blues are biting big for you up there!!!
P Tabbernor
March 24, 2007
In memory....
Becca Drzewiecki
February 15, 2007
Still think about you George. You taught me so much about how to treat others... I haven't met anyone else at Aon more considerate than you. Blessings to Ginny and Hilary.
Chet Lloyd
December 19, 2006
I had never met George but spoke to him on the telephone numerous times regarding a specialty area in the safety field. When speaking with him, I remember him as always being helpful and encouraging and just very pleasant. I know now from the heartfelt notes in his Guest Book that he loved the sea too. May the Lord Bless him and his family.
Rev. Steven Strauch
January 7, 2006
To the family of Mr.Strauch,
May the Lord's greatest strength and blessings be to you. I was drawn to this site while doing geneolgoy research. If appropriate I would be interested in learning more of your families lineage. In greatest of prayer and respect. Peace and joy.
Beulah Jones-Houston
September 9, 2005
Hi George!! I know it has been a long time since I was last here but I still think of you just about everyday. Guess what? I am back in NY Tech Services again. I still can't believe it!! I am now working for Paul Capuzzo just like when I worked for you back then. Some of the faces/things have changed but some remain the same. I hope that your wife & daughter are doing well. I find it hard to believe that almost 4 years have gone by. As always, you & your family will be in my prayers.
Former Aon Employee
September 13, 2003
I think about George often and his lovely family. I remember working with him and going into his office where he proudly displayed his pictures of his wife and daughter. I always thought how lucky he was. How lucky his family still is to have memories, but how sad to lose him. I will often think of his little girl and pray when she feels sad she will stop and think how much her daddy loved her and that shall fill her heart with joy. God Bless.
a friend
March 22, 2003
For Hillary
> A Daughters Love
>
> Her hair was up in a ponytail
> Her favorite dress tied with a bow.
> Today was Daddy's Day at school,
> And she couldn't wait to go.
>
> But her mommy tried to tell her,
> That she probably should stay home.
> Why the kids might not understand,
> If she went to school alone.
>
> But she was not afraid;
> She knew just what to say.
> What to tell her classmates
> Of why he wasn't there today.
>
> But still her mother worried,
> For her to face this day alone.
> And that was why once again,
> She tried to keep her daughter home.
>
> But the little girl went to school,
> Eager to tell them all.
> About a dad she never sees
> A dad who never calls.
>
> There were daddies along the wall in back,
> For everyone to meet.
> Children squirming impatiently,
> Anxious in their seats.
>
> One by one the teacher called,
> A student from the class.
> To introduce their daddy,
> As seconds slowly passed.
>
> At last the teacher called her name,
> Every child turned to stare.
> Each of them was searching,
> For a man who wasn't there.
>
> "Where's her daddy at?"
> She heard a boy call out.
> "She probably doesn't have one,"
> Another student dared to shout..
>
> And from somewhere near the back,
> She heard a daddy say,
> "Looks like another deadbeat dad,
> Too busy to waste his day."
>
> The words did not offend her,
> As she smiled up at her Mom.
> And looked back at her teacher,
> Who told her to go on.
>
> And with hands behind her back,
> Slowly she began to speak.
> And out from the mouth of a child,
> Came words incredibly unique.
>
> "My Daddy couldn't be here,
> Because he lives so far away.
> But I know he wishes he could be,
> Since this is such a special day.
>
> And though you cannot meet him,
> I wanted you to know.
> All about my daddy,
> And how much he loves me so.
>
> He loved to tell me stories
> He taught me to ride my bike.
> He surprised me with pink roses,
> And taught me to fly a kite.
>
> We used to share fudge sundaes,
> And ice cream in a cone.
> And though you cannot see him,
> I'm not standing here alone.
>
> "Cause my daddy's always with me,
> Even though we are apart
> I know because he told me,
> He'll forever be in my heart"
>
> With that, her little hand reached up,
> And lay across her chest.
> Feeling her own heartbeat,
> Beneath her favorite dress.
>
> And from somewhere in the crowd of dads,
> Her mother stood in tears.
> Proudly watching her daughter,
> Who was wise beyond her years.
>
> For she stood up for the love
> Of a man not in her life.
> Doing what was best for her,
> Doing what was right.
>
> And when she dropped her hand back down,
> Staring straight into the crowd.
> She finished with a voice so soft,
> But its message clear and loud.
>
> "I love my daddy very much,
> He's my shining star.
> And if he could, he'd be here,
> But heaven's just too far.
>
> You see he worked in the World
Trade Center
> And died just this past year
> When airplanes hit the towers
> And taught Americans to fear.
>
> But sometimes when I close my eyes,
> It's like he never went away."
> And then she closed her eyes,
> And saw him there that day.
>
> And to her mother's amazement,
> She witnessed with surprise.
> A room full of daddies and children,
> All starting to close their eyes.
>
> Who knows what they saw before them,
> Who knows what they felt inside.
> Perhaps for merely a second,
> They saw him at her side.
>
> "I know you're with me Daddy,"
> To the silence she called out.
> And what happened next made believers,
> Of those once filled with doubt.
>
> Not one in that room could explain it,
> For each of their eyes had been closed.
> But there on the desk beside her,
> Was a fragrant long-stemmed pink rose.
>
> And a child was blessed, if only for a moment,
> By the love of her shining bright star.
> And given the gift of believing,
> That heaven is never too far
>
> They say it takes a minute to find a special person,
> an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them,
> but then an entire life to forget them.
>
> Send this phrase to the people you'll never forget
> If you don't send it to anyone, it means you're in a hurry and that
> you've forgotten your friends.
>
> Take the time...to live and love.
>
> Until eternity. God bless.
Hillary your Daddy will always be with you.
< br>
Helene Rodgville
September 11, 2002
I worked with George at Black & Decker. I knew when I heard about the Towers falling, that George was there. There was a message on my voicemail from George which I kept for over a month, just to hear his voice. I know I can't comfort his family, but he's an inspiration to all that knew him. His legacy was that everyone that knew George, knew he would not go out of the WTC, until everyone he knew was out safely first. I miss him and hope this will be your last sorrow.
Jerry Gronske
September 11, 2002
Ginny and Hillary
Today our lives focus on the terrible tragedy that took George from us. He was a wonderful man, an example for all of us to follow. His genuine interest in every person who crossed his path is a virture I will always remember about George. Although our thoughts never stay that far from you, today we are focus our attention to you and as always, Ginny, Hillary and Goerge you are in our prayers.
God Bless you!
Letty Ferrer
September 10, 2002
I never knew you but I felt as if I did just by reading your family speak of you in a Time Magazine article. May God bless you and may your family find some comfort and carry the memories that you left them.
Elaine Yezo
September 10, 2002
During the short time we lived in Avon, George, Ginny and Hilary always made us feel welcome. We miss those times terribly. I remember sitting on their porch on a July 4th, relaxing, watching fireworks. My daughter, Veronica still remembers when she went to Point Pleasant boardwalk with the Strauch's. We remember George as being a generous man. We continue to pray for Ginny and Hilary.
Bryan L. Allen
September 8, 2002
I was handed a memorial bracelet with George's name on it this morning at our church, All Saints of Pasadena. I am struck at how similar his life circumstances were to my own. Like George, I have a wife and one daughter (age 14.) Like George, I take great pleasure in sports and the outdoors. I am 50 years old, very close to George's age. Additionally, both my father and grandfather's first names are and were George.
My deepest sympathy goes out to George's widow and daughter. I will wear his name on my wrist through Sept. 11th to honor his memory in particular and in remembrance more-generally of all those who died nearly one year ago.
Angela & Anthony Clement
August 29, 2002
Our prayers are with your family and friends!! We did not know you but we will never forget you!!!! May you rest in peace forever more..........
Tom Rodriguez
August 26, 2002
George: It was a pleasure to work with you while at RBH on 3rd Avenue. I thought of all my friends back in NYC on that day and prayed for them all...Tom
May 9, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN..GEORGE STRAUCH AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.GEORGE GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
VICTORIA HARDEY
May 5, 2002
I RECIEVED GEORGE'S NAME THROUGH THE UNITED IN MEMORY QUILT PROJECT IN LONG BEACH. I GOT TO KNOW HIM THROUGH HIS LOVED ONES REMARKS AND ALL OF YOUR LOVING ENTRIES HERE. YET IT SADENS ME TO READ THAT HE IS GONE. YET HIS MEMORY IS HERE AND WITH YOU ALWAYS. YOU SHARE HIS LOVE OF LIVE AND GOODNESS. I KNOW YOU WILL SEE HIM AGAIN IN THE NEXT LIFE. SUCH A GREAT MAN WILL BE HONORED FOR HIS GREAT LIFE HERE. I KNOW HE IS WAITING FOR HIS LOVING WIFE AND DAUGHTER TO JOIN HIM IN HEAVEN. AND I TOO WILL MEET YOU ALL! TILL THEN!
Margaret Baez
April 27, 2002
George - It was a pleasure working with you at Aon. I always looked forward to seeing the photos of your beautiful little girl, you were so so proud of her..
You were a wonderful person to know and speak with. Rest In Peace.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless You All -
Margaret Baez
Letty Guzman
April 4, 2002
My heartfelt sympathy goes to The Strauch Family. George was definitely a wonderful and patient boss. Even though I was laidoff due to cuts and restructuring of staff in 1995, George had difficulty informing us of same. He was always gentle and caring, he was definitely a wonderful man & Boss. May God Bless you and comfort your family.
Camille Grey
February 18, 2002
You were one of the best managers at Aon. Always a gentleman and easy to talk to. You will be truly missed.
Camille
Patricia Granata
February 6, 2002
Dear Mrs. Strauch.
You were my English and Journalism teacher when I was a student at St. John Vianney Highschool. I graduated in 1988. I read about your husband, George in the New York Times this weekend. I stopped immediately and hoped that I wouldn't be able to connect his name to yours. I remember something from our class that 15 years ago you promised I would never forget, "What kind, which one, how many,how much" , the definition of an adverb.
I also remember that when I had you for a teacher you hadn't given birth to Hillary yet, it was just you and George and you talked a lot about the things you did together. You would write sentences on the board for us to diagram and I remember you would use his name a lot in them. Now, I know much later, looking back that was just a sign of how much you loved him.
My thoughts and heart goes out to you. From what I have read on this page, it seems as though the earth has inherited one of its finest angels.
My heart is with you.
Sincerely,
Tricia Granata
Lynn Vasquez
January 18, 2002
George, My husband and I miss your presence at the annual family gatherings at Bert & Erics. Your mom, brother and sister were there even during their time of sorrow. I feel their pain often as I look back on that day of tragedy. I pray every day that the family remains strong. We keep you in our hearts and prayers everyday. We Love You.
Mahva Jones
January 17, 2002
George:
I will always remember hearing the smile in your voice when I called your office. You and Beulah always made my day and I shall forever cherish those memories.
Calling New York was always one of the highlights of working for Lisa Nekich. It made me miss being back there after speaking with you.
You shall never be forgotten. Those whose lives you have touched will carry a token of your kindness and patience in their hearts.
May you rest in peace and keep smiling down upon us all.
Even at dusk there is always a flicker of the coming dawn.
MRJ
Eleine Ruokonen
January 9, 2002
Dear George,
I met you when I came to Aon. I can't say anymore than what Beulah said. You always listened and had a great smile. Thank you.. You will be missed by many.
January 3, 2002
The void is tremendous. I pray for your family daily. I;m working on getting enought strength to talk to Ginny and Hillary about how happy you had become in your job...we were on a roll and it came to a schreeching halt...I wish it were me instead of you. I wish I could take away the pain from Hillary and Ginny
Teresa Jahn
December 11, 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
Beulah Houston
December 9, 2001
Dear George, I can't believe that I am doing this. I am proud to say that I had the privilege of working for you for the last five years during your time as head of NY Tech Services and afterwards. I really learned a lot from you. But, then again, when someone had a problem/request they always came to you for assistance & you always found a way to help them. You have always treated me with respect and for that I thank you. I will really miss talking to you when I come in the office in the morning if you weren't traveling. I find it hard now coming to work & not seeing you there. I do not know what my future holds but I will always look back at my time working as your secretary as a great learning experience. Thank you for your support when I was taking the "Intro to Prop & Casualty" course last year. I will miss seeing you, Bob Ferris, Molly Herencia together in your office for meetings, etc. You, Ginny & Hilary will always be in my prayers & thoughts. Rest in Peace. : - )
BJH
Maryann Petti
November 28, 2001
I worked in the Data Mgt. dept 5yrs and about 4 of those years George Strauch was our boss. You couldn't ask for a nicer boss. You just knew working for George made you special. He was so dedicated to his job and made you feel important. I believe in my heart if he had stayed in charge I would have not had to leave Aon. The others that came after George just didn't have what George had. I was so sorry to hear he didn't make it out safely. I pray that his wife and daughter one day feel some kind of peace. God bless him and his entire family. Thank you George for always being fair and honest. I will remember you fondly.
Maryann
JAN BELAND
October 16, 2001
I worked with George at Aon Corporation for several years and enjoyed working with him. He was such a pleasant soul.
My prayers are with you.
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