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Richard G. Catarelli
Richard G. Catarelli
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Richard Catarelli Obituary
Richard was an exceptional man who saw the image of God in each and every person he encountered, and lived out his belief through his concern, his kindness, and his generosity of giving to others in need. He held a great sense of humor and would do anything to make people laugh and be happy. He cheered you when things seemed at their worst. "Smile my friend," he would always say, "God loves you."
At a Parish Dinner Dance honoring Richard in June 2002, a close friend of the Catarelli Family compared Richard’s short life to the two beams of light that rise up for only a short time from Ground Zero, but shine brightly against the darkness. And yet, even when they are extinguished, the image of those two beams of light and its symbolism will always be remembered and be a part of the lives of those who have witnessed its majesty. Richard’s legacy to those who knew and loved him is that light.
Tribute submitted by Santa Catarelli.
57 Entries
Cindy Roe
September 4, 2021
Remembering Richard on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....
Del Newberry
May 11, 2020
I never knew Richard, but I can tell from his obituary that he was a fine man of God, devoted husband and father. We can honor his legacy by being the kind of servant-leader that he was. These are trying times in 2020 during the Carona Virus pandemic, but we will never forget the many who suffered and continued to suffer after losing loved ones on this horrible day so many years ago. My prayers are lifted today for RIchard's many family and friends who miss him. Much love from Texas,
Dorothy Candarini
September 11, 2019
My thoughts & prayers go out to Richard G. Catarelli and his family especially Anamarie who used to sing beautifully. I haven't seen her for years. But if she sees this I hope you are doing well! Know that I think about you every year. God bless you and your family
Stay strong
Elli
August 29, 2019
My name is Elli and I am a sophomore at Shanley highschool in Fargo, North Dakota. I am studying the tragedy of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in school and I have read about Richard and his enormous sacrifice for our country and the safety of millions of people. He was a hero, a faithful servant and a light to the rest of the world. May he Rest In Peace.
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Joe B
September 11, 2016
Richard, you were mensch in a world with too few of them. "Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen."
September 11, 2014
Miss you so very much Richard. God bless you and keep you safe in the folds of his arms. Millie
Cherie Girard
September 27, 2013
I will never forget the joy he brought to my life whenever I saw him. He is still missed and thought of so often.
I never knew what to expect from him. He was the light of Santa's life and such a wonderful husband and friend.
George Trapp
September 11, 2013
I remember Richard through his work at Marsh and Sedgewick.Policy renewals brought us together each year including the one thing we had in common: our love for food and cooking. Richard- you are in my prayers and each 9/11 brings a fond memory of our friendship.
Roy Probeyahn
September 11, 2011
Rich was my student back in his years at Sedgewick James for insurance courses. I regret I just found this now 10 years after his loss. We kept in touch over the years and shared many laughs and stories of our respective insurance exploits. My belated condolences to his bride, Santa and daughter Anamarie. You have been and will remain in my thoughts and prayers. May he be safe in the palm of His hands. May God Bless you.
Roy Probeyahn CPCU
Roseanne Caggiano
September 11, 2011
Richard was my 5th grade religious instructor at Saint Finbar's Church. He was such a great man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your wife Santa and daughter Anamarie today as they go to the memorial to mourn you. You will never be forgotten. God Bless You and God Bless America.
Debby Frakes
September 11, 2011
My thoughts are with you today and always. We were parishioners at St. Finbars and Richard was my chidrens religious instructor. He was a wonderful man and we are very happy that we knew him. God bless you.
Laura Shinn
September 8, 2011
I worked with Rich back in the early 90s at Sedgwick James. He is one of the few that touched me. What a wonderful man he was. My prayers go out to his family on this upcoming 10th anniversary and always.
Anamarie Catarelli
September 9, 2010
It is amazing how quick 9 years have passed and the pain and heartache I have from your loss is still as strong as 9/11/01. As I think about the anniversary this year, I want to pay tribute to the wonderful person that you were; husband, father, brother, uncle, best friend, colleague, teacher, student, hero.
They say that things are supposed to get easier but I'm still waiting. I know that you are watching down on all of us that love and miss you. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you and wish you were here to give me words of wisdom on life, and yes I even miss the pain in the butt part of you!!
Dad you were my best friend. I miss you terribly but I know that you want me to be happy and think good thoughts. So today and this weekend I will think of all the good times we had! Sending my love to you on clouds of x's and o's.
Anamarie
Doug Abraham
December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!!!
POLIZZI
November 27, 2007
Joe Polizzi
FAMILY
Joe Bongiorno
September 11, 2007
Richard,
Today I ran (it was raining like hell in the city) over to St. Bart's Episcopalian Church in mid-town for their eucharist celebration. I chose St.Bart's over St. Pat's because a co-worker (who lost her daughter's best friend in the North Tower) wanted to go and I figured I should keep her company. I watched the priests, deacons and choir go about their business in a very calm, gentle and dignified way and I couldn't help but think about you. Six years on and it feels like yesterday. I would say 'God bless' but it makes more sense to ask you to see if you can't get few blessings thrown our way.
Till then...
Frances Brown (DePalo)
September 11, 2007
The first thing I did today was remember the Catarelli family and such a hard day. Six years later, and the sorrow still sits in our hearts. Anamarie, it has been years since we've spoken but I hope all is well.
Millie Marolla
July 16, 2007
I miss Richard every day of my life. So, to feel a little closer to him today, I want to share a "Richard Story" that gives insight to how one man could brighten up one's life. One very early Saturday morning, I ran to the neighborhood shopping area on 86th Street in Brooklyn. I had thrown on some old clothes and had on no make-up. I thought this early in the morning, no one will be around to see me. However, as I was crossing 86th Street, I hear a man yell out "hello gorgeous" and thought that it couldn't possibly be me he was referring to. But, it was. It was Richard driving his car calling out to me. I went over to his car and he never flinched when he saw me up close. He said "hi gorgeous what's up?" I told him I was going to shop for fruits and vegetables. Without missing a beat he made some suggestions for a fundraiser for St. Finbar's parish. He never said
anything about the way I looked. He truly saw me as me. Thank you Richard.... for in one's person's eyes for one day of my life, I was gorgeous.
I know you are looking down from heaven and smiling that "gorgeous" smile. Pray for me, Jean and Joseph.
Kristine
October 19, 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.
Maria Valenti
October 14, 2006
I never met Richard, but by reading his profile, he has touched my heart.
Millie Marolla
September 28, 2006
September 11th, 2001 was a day that will go down in infamy. That fateful day not only horrified and shocked the good people of America, it rocked the entire world. It was a day that many suffered sudden, dramatic and tragic losses of loved ones and friends. It was a day that many lives were lost and many lives were changed forever.
We, the people of St. Finbar's parish, like so many other communities of worship, as well as feeling and suffering the nation's loss, also suffered the loss of one of our own. We lost a man who perpetuated Christ's gospel every day of his life by helping and loving his fellow man. We lost a man who truly believed he saw the face of God in all those he met and actually lived out that belief through kindness and generosity of self to others. We lost a man who, because he saw young people as a generation to fullfill his message of hope and peace, studied and worked diligently to become a youth minister. We lost a man who, as a parish trustee and a Knight of Columbus, counseled with a loving heart and was a vital part of our parish.
Yes, September 11, 2001 was a day that will be remembered for the horror and havoc thrust upon good people, but it will also be a day remembered for a nation of brave people's strength, love, care and unity. Here, at St. Finbar, we will also always remember it as the day we physically lost Richard Catarelli. We believe, therefore, we know Richard is still with us, watching over us always.
May God bless his beautiful, wonderful wife Santa and his talented, beautiful daughter Anamarie. Richard is proud of you both.
September 13, 2006
Rich,
Five years have passed. It will never get easier to deal with 9/11, but having known you, and having worked with you has made my life better.
You were a fantastic consultant, and working with you inspired me to think differently - more creatively - on the job - and interacting with you as a friend inspired me to look at life from the bright side, and from the humorous side.
I have missed our meetings, and those opportunties to grab lunch and talk about life, and our families, hopes, dreams, God - and of course -- work.
Santa and Ana Maria - I never got to meet you, but I know how passionately Richard loved you.
I have hoped to have the same passion and love in my own life - and I was recently married, and some of the things I learned from Richard are helping to make the marriage special.
Thanks for being who you are Rich Catarelli!
A former client, 9/13/2006
Kris Claphan
September 12, 2006
This tribute was so warm and inspiring. It was so wonderful hearing all about your Dad, Anamarie. While reading about him and the type of person he was and how wonderful and amazing he was, I couldn't help but think one thing. When I first met you, these wonderful qualities are what I saw in YOU. I think that you are amazing and kind and that your father has passed along a wonderful gift to you and I'm sure that many people can see him in you every day.
I'm so happy to have met you and I look forward to having a wonderful friendship with you. Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute with me.
Love Ya,
Kris
Patricia Kessler
September 12, 2006
Anamarie & Santa,
I'm sorry I never got to meet your dad, but I do have a sense of what he was like by being friends with you. You and your mom are two of the most amazing caring people I know. I love you like you were my own family. I thank God everyday that he has blessed me with your friendship and love. I gather from what I know from your family and your stories about your dad, he was the same. I know he is in heaven watching out for you and your mom.
He may not be on this earth, but he is living on in you and your mom and all the people he has touched.
On this 5th Anniversary I would like to say how much life has changed in these few years. The way of thinking and the way we live. May the world never forget 9-11!
Christine Kessler
September 12, 2006
Anamarie & Santa,
What you wrote is beautiful. I never met Richard but I know him because he lives on through you. I love you guys with all my heart. I am glad to be a part of your lives now.
Gina Mammana
September 11, 2006
Anamarie & Santa,
That was so wonderful to see.. Even though I never met Richard I feel as though I know him through you guys, I love you all very much and am so happy to be a part of your lives.
Love Gina
Frances Brown (DePalo)
September 11, 2006
Anamarie, Five years later, and your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Hope all is well!
Melissa Gibilaro
September 11, 2006
Dear Anamarie and Mrs. Catarelli,
You both are in my thoughts and prayers today. It's hard to believe that 5 years have passed.
Anamarie, I'll never forget the nights (week after week) in Fr. Carrano's class with you and your dad. Mother of Flying Toasters, we had a good time! :)
On this day, may God's healing presence continue to be with you now and always.
Donna
September 10, 2006
What a beautiful tribute you posted to your husband. I will keep you and your daughter in my thoughts and prayers, not only on the 5 year anniversary, but always.
God bless.
P Tabbernor
September 8, 2006
In memory....
Howard&Marjory Hewson
November 15, 2005
We have many memories of Richard comming into our hame in Massapequa always laughing and having good stories to tell us. His humor and personality touched many lives and he will always be remembered in our lives.
Brian Hewson
November 11, 2005
When I think about growing up, Rich is one of the people that was always there. Those times were always happy as it should be. Rich put others first, I never had a better friend.
Melissa Slizewski
July 22, 2003
Dear Anamarie and Santa,
I've been thinking of you two a lot lately. I want you to know that you are both in my prayers. I know that Rich had a very special place in this world and I know that he accomplished so many great things while he was here. He was truly a blessing from God. It seems so long ago that we were little girls playing at 132 First Avenue with Heather and Laurie. Hang on to the good times and the wonderful memories of your dad and husband. They will see you through until you meet him again. I know that he and Grandpa are looking down from Heaven and watching over us all. Please know that we are all praying for you.
Love Melissa
and
Grace, Karen, Maura, Rich, Richy, Heather and Andrew
Danielle Carriero
September 13, 2002
Unfortunately, I never got to meet Mr. Catarelli. But I know that if he was anything like his daughter, sweet, funny, and one of the nicest people I know, then the world was blessed to have him. My thoughts and prayers are always with you.
Sr. Carmel Therese Favazzo
September 13, 2002
With Santa and Anamarie I give praise to God for Richard -- as a special gift to all of us. We are privileged to have known Richard and to continue to be blessed by his presence among us right here now.
Thank you, Richard, for your life as it is ongoing in heaven and among us.
Frances DePalo
September 11, 2002
One year ago we all suffered together and prayed for each other, today I pray for the Catarelli family, and remember them throughout the day.
Happy 1st Anniversary in heaven MR. Catarelli.
Lee Edwards
September 9, 2002
To the Friends and Family of Richard Catarelli:
In Houston, three Catholic schools are commemorating September 11th in a unique way. Each student is asked to wear a wristband with the name of one deceased person from Sept. 11. I am a senior at St. Pius X HS. For two weeks I will be wearing the wristband of Richard Catarelli and keeping you all in my prayers. It is a somber time for us all here and it has put everything in perspective. My deepest sympathies go out to everyone affected and touched by Richard in his lifetime.
God Bless you all,
Lee Edwards
Deana Montella
September 7, 2002
My deepest prayers go to Annamarie and her family. I attended elementary school with Annamarie at St. Finbar and was always welcomed by her family. Richard was always very involved in our school and Church and he will always be remembered. When I heard that he was taken by Sept 11th, I was upset I could not send my regards because I am attending school in Florida. I want the family to know you have been and will always be in my prayers.
Louise Fiore
September 6, 2002
I only met Richard once at a mutual friend's annual barbecue party in July 2001. He made the desserts and did the barbecuing. He told hysterically funny stories and left a lasting impression on me. He spoke very lovelingly of his daughter Annamarie. I was looking forward to seeing him again at the next get together. As Sept. 11, 2002 approaches I want to extend my condolences to his wonderful family. He and they are in my prayers.
Donna DeSiena
August 20, 2002
I taught CCD with Richie and he was a wonderful teacher. The kids loved "Mr. Rich" and he was an inspiration to all the teachers. I am sure we have our own Saint to pray to because he surely is in heaven helping the Lord organize an evangelization program.
Linda Cavicchio
July 13, 2002
Richard,
I am a neighbor of your family and I just wanted to let them know that I pray for you often. You were always such a caring person, always asking how my Dad was doing...I enjoy listening to Anamarie sing at Mass...it is a comfort to hear her. God bless you all.
margaret gilbert hodges
June 6, 2002
Richard,
You always made me laugh. I can still hear your voice and see your face after all these years.
Now I am crying. I am so sorry.
love, margaret
Karin Coleman-Whaley
June 2, 2002
Richard,
You will be missed.
Love with Friendship,Karin
Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, to assure the survival and success of liberty.
John F. Kennedy (1917-1963)
Frances DePalo
April 28, 2002
I never really got to spend time with Mr. Catarelli, but I did get to spend time with his daughter. And just spending time with his daughter made me realize that he is a great man... Anamarie & family: I am always there for you no matter what... Love you all...
Anamarie Catarelli
April 1, 2002
Though darkness has touched my life these past 6 months, the light that I have left is believing that my dad is in heaven watching over both me and my mom!! I was deeply blessed to have a wonderful father! He was not only my dad but my best friend and I will never forget him!
Ellen Frey
March 13, 2002
To a wonderful man who was very special in every way. He was a pleasure to work with and will be missed. May you rest in peace.
Linn Robinson
February 20, 2002
Rich was a true professional and a very likeable fellow.I knew him from Sedgwick, J&H and Marsh.God bless Rich and his family.
Teresa Jahn
January 6, 2002
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
Pat Polizzi-Fowler
January 2, 2002
I worked with Richard Catarelli for 10 years at Sedgwick and he was a wonderful person. He taught me many things and was always there for me to talk to. My heart goes out to his family. May God watch over you all.
Judy Nolan
December 31, 2001
I fondly remember Richie from when he was a claims consultant on the American Red Cross account many years ago when he worked at Fred S. James. I was saddened to hear of his death and extend my heartfelt sorrow to his family at this most difficult time.
December 18, 2001
MAY GOD IN HEAVEN BLESS RICHARD G.
CATARELLI AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE.
GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD
BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND ALL
THE GOOD PEOPLE IN IT..NEVER FORGET
9/11/01
Jeanne Courter
November 1, 2001
I only met Rich once, but I remember him as a very lively, enthusiastic person. He was giving my company advice and he was very wise in the ways of insurance. I am so sorry for his loss, and send my sympathies to his colleagues, friends and family.
JO ANN HANSON
October 25, 2001
RICH WAS SOMEONE WHO MADE THE WORLD A LITTLE NICER BY JUST BEING WITH US. HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS WIFE AND FAMILY.
Jay Caruso
October 24, 2001
I have know Rich many years as I first worked with him at Fred S. James on an account based in Washington DC. We traveled many times together and always enjoyed listing to his view on life and business.
Rich knew his job and did it well. I learned a lot from him and will never forget him. God bless to his love ones.
leslie miller
October 17, 2001
Please find comfort in good memories and strength in friends and family. Our prayers are with you.
Kathy Gavin
October 16, 2001
I worked with Richie at several years ago and remember his day "in the office" the most delightful of the week. He will be greatly missed.
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