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Richard S. Gabrielle
Richard S. Gabrielle
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Richard Gabrielle Obituary
He called it his "Baby P," a 1999 black Volkswagen Passat. It was kept in a garage in West Haven, Conn., and brought out only when the weather was fine – or when it was time for Richard Gabrielle's racing lessons.
Mr. Gabrielle's wife, Monica, who was not allowed to drive the Passat, said she had little doubt that her husband's fairly recent passion for driving a souped-up little car around a racetrack at Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, Conn., was the result of a midlife crisis.
Mr. Gabrielle, a 50-year-old insurance broker at the Aon Corporation, was an extraordinarily gentle man in most ways. Even moths, when they got in the house, would be carefully ushered out, uninjured. But he would also never tell his wife how fast he went during his driving lessons, and he recently bought a radar detector, so that he could, as he put it, "practice" on the highways.
"He'd tell me, 'Better that than women, don't you think?'" she said.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
September 11, 2024
Remembering you today Rich.. Nora and Charlie..
Gabrielle K. Gabrielli
September 15, 2021
Uncle Richie, it's hard to believe it's been 20 years since you left this earthly world. Every year, I make the trek back to New York to honor your life. You are missed here tremendously....
Cindy Roe
September 14, 2021
Remembering Richard on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Matthew Guilford
September 12, 2012
U will never be forgeten
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Matthew Guilford
September 12, 2012
You will always be rembered as a hero! ;(
Gabrielle Gabrielli
August 18, 2012
Uncle Richie, a few days ago, I received a call from Mayor Bloomberg's office that I was chosen as a reader this year at the 9/11 services. I am honored to pay tribute to you at the podium as well as to so many other lives lost. Every year, I've been at the services...for the first time ever, I will have family with me including your brother and sister, my brother, his family, and cousins. Wish you were here...we miss you so much, but your spirit lives on.
susan wylie
August 17, 2012
I will be remembering Richard today at the 1:00 walking for the Tribute Center. I did not know Richard but he was a former colleague of mine at AON. I learned about Richard through this site and hope to honor his spirit, his love for family and life, and his incredible gift to bring laughter and compassionate to others. Richard's spirit and how he lived will never be forgotten. God Bless!
Sincerely, Susan Wylie
Survivor WTC 2/92 Floor)
Gavin Berardesca
June 24, 2010
Dear Monica and Nicole,
I was a friend of Nicole's in High School. I was saddened beyond belief when I heard of Richard's passing. It was not until several years after the tradgedy that I found out and my heart sank. I know I only spent a little time with him, but the funniest moment was on th night of Nicole's surprise birthday party maybe in 1993 or so. We were in the pool and he came running in with his swim cap on and I thought it was the funniest. I hope you read this, and just know I think about you all very much and I am so sorry for your loss. Stay strong.
Gabrielle (D.) Gabrielle
September 12, 2009
It is hard to believe that 8 years have passed since my Uncle Richie, who was also my Godfather, died. It doesn't get any easier. His remains have never been found, so Ground Zero is his burial site and I feel compelled to visit every year for the memorial services. Yesterday everyone's tears at the services combined with a cold rain. Still, the service was beautiful and though we all still miss him, we remember the laughter and love he brought to so many lives....
Eric Steiner
September 1, 2007
Dear Monica, Nicole & Family,
As we approach the 11th of September my heart weighs heavy. Although I did not know Rich, Kevin has shared stories with me about him as the two were on the Atkins diet at the same time.
I'm thinking of you all and keeping you close to my heart.
Your former neighbor,
Eric
(5K-2001-2004)
Jon Gold
June 20, 2007
Thank you for guidance. I am truly sorry for the loss of your husband.
Kristine
October 31, 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 10, 2006
In remembrance....
Donna Gabrielle
October 7, 2006
Dear Janet, so you know, Uncle Bill died last year at the age of 89. He was a wonderful, kind man, just like my Uncle Richie. I loved sipping Scotch with my Uncle Bill. Aunt Helen is doing well, though she misses Uncle Bill so much. Coincidentally, her birthday is on September 11. She has an amazing great grandson who lifts her spirits, as well as her granddaughter, grandsons, daughter, sister, and the rest of the family.
Michael,Roseann, & Sons Fornito
September 11, 2006
Just wanted to let you know that after 5yrs, you and your family have not been forgotten. Be resting in peace.
Janet DiMaio (Zuckelli)
August 9, 2006
Dear Monica, Nicole, Connie, and Gabe.....
My memories of Rich were always wonderful, and now so bittersweet. We had so much fun as kids, in Lindenhurst and then out in Mattituck at Aunt Helen and Uncle Bills. Rich and I got in trouble often...if it wasn't for diggin up too many clams in the Peconic, it was for Rich helping me call my friends with an alligator clipped phone he devised!! He always knew how to talk us out of trouble and make me laugh. Uncle Bill had his "number", but who could get mad at Rich?? All he had to do was beam that winning smile, and all was forgiven!
I had not been in contact with him for many years....unfortunately, we oftentimes don't stay in touch with those that meant the most to us. For that I am not happy, but for the memories I have of him I am deeply grateful.
I can't describe the pain I feel for all of you. Just know that you are always in my prayers, and that Rich is still here with us in spirit.
All my love to all of you,
Your loving cousin,
Janet
Roseann Fornito
February 23, 2005
Dear Rich & Monica, I am not sure if you read this website anymore but I wanted to share a quick story with you. My brother Vinny was over and talking about work and he mentioned Rich. I wanted you to know that they guys at the job (AIG) still talk about Rich all the time and how much they miss him. The stories are about how he saved so many lives that day, mostly young people. My brother still speaks of the funny things they did together. I just wanted to share that with you that Rich's life will never be forgotten. Roseann
Michael Iezzi
May 24, 2004
Richard,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Lorraine Forrler
September 11, 2003
I just learned quite recently that Rich was the very same person that I knew back in the late 70's working for Liberty Mutual. We sat next to each other and we spent a great deal of the time talking about our family and friends. He talked about Monica often and when I saw her name recently in print, I realized that this must be the same wonderful guy I knew so many years ago. Mind you, I knew Rich over 30 years ago and he left such an impression on me that I still remember him to this very day! He was so witty and so much fun to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with Rich and his family on this very sad 2nd anniversary.
Roseann Fornito
September 10, 2003
Dear Rich: I just wanted you and your family to know that our family has not forgotten you and never will. I will never forget anyone of you and I will make sure that when my children are old enough to understand, they will never forget either or what took place on 9/11. To your wife Monica, I hope someday you will find all the answers you are looking for and maybe find peace. Roseann & family
Anne Wandler
October 30, 2002
I didn't know Richard, but, as part of the Waukesha Choral Union, I participated in the singing of Mozart's Rolling Requiem in Milwaukee WI on Sept 11 2002, and his name was on the button I wore.
October 24, 2002
TO THE GABRIELLE FAMILY...RICHARD IS ALWAYS ON MY MIND...I FEEL WE ARE RELATED...MY GRANDMOTHERS NAME
WAS CONCETTA GABRIELLE..FROM CALABRIA ITALY 100 YRS.AGO...OR MORE. GOD BLESS RICHARD AND HIS FAMILY...GIVE THEM PEACE...AMEN
Roseann Fornito
September 11, 2002
Dear Monica, I wanted to tell you that I am thinking about Rich today and saying a prayer for your family. Last month, I finally went to Ground Zero but to me it will always be the World Trade Center. I use to work on William Street. I got off the bus and it hit me like a knife not seeing those not so pretty buildings. I stood where I would meet my brother and sister for lunch, just staring in amazment. I walked over to St. Paul's Church where many a time I sat quietly in the cemetary. While looking at that huge memorial, the one picture that was staring me in the face was Rich. Out of thousands, there was Rich. What struck me was, there was his picture surrounded by firemens. So, I said a prayer and added a picture of my firemen friend lost. It was just fitting that my friend Carl Bedigian's picture be right next to Rich's both heroes on 9/11.
Marie Rufrano
September 11, 2002
To the Gabrielle Family,
My thoughts and prayers are always with you.
Continue to keep Rich's spirit alive by sharing memories, and there he will always be with you.
Julie Vasilevich
September 11, 2002
To the Gabrielle Family,
I had the privilege of knowing Rich for several years while working at Aon. He stood out by his consistantly being helpful, respectful, diligent, and encouraging. His clients and co-workers loved him alike. Although he was always professional, he would let his personal life sneak through. He talked about his family all the time with glowing and loving stories. I recall specifically his stories about his memories on a vacation in Italy. He had such a wonderful time and this refreshed him.
I miss his cheery voice on the phone - always friendly and kind. Your loss is unimaginable, but you should know that my life was enriched simply by knowing Rich. I pray that your healing is continual.
Psalm 34:4: "I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears."
You are not alone.
Judith Keiderling
September 11, 2002
I didn't know Rich as an adult, but remember him as a child growing up in Lindenhurst, NY. My sister, MaryLu (Skinner) Goldberg was "best friends" with his sister, Connie. Their friendship was a link between the families.
Having tragically lost MaryLu in an auto accident shortly after 9/11 last year, I know only too well the pain and sorrow the Gabrielle family continues to suffer.
From the tributes I've read, it sounds like Rich was a wonderful man who left behind a legacy of love and memories.
My sympathy and prayers to the entire family on this somber anniversary.
Martha Hunter
September 11, 2002
It was such a please to know such a cheerful person. I am glad I was able to service his computer needs. May he rest in peace.
Martha (former AON IT employee)
Jo Ann Barbaro
September 11, 2002
Dear Family,
What a person Rich was; always so funny. I will always hear him passing by and calling out "Hi Jo". I will remember him always.
You will remain in my prayers.
Robert, Nancy, Dustin and Laura Sutton
September 9, 2002
In memory of Richard S. Gabrielle
We did not know Richard, but my husband is the brother of Cam Sutton who works for Aon. I came across this on the internet and wanted to express our deepest sympathy. I have thought of all the lives lost that day and especially of the ones from my brother-in-laws company. It still hurts deeply. Our deepest deepest sympathy to the family.
Nancy Sutton
September 7, 2002
My wishes are for your family. Afather husband and friend will always be in your heart.A fellow Ct dad and father
Peter & Marla Doheny
August 31, 2002
Not a day goes by that we don't think about Rich, Monica and Nicole. We are happy for the memories we have.
Chris Brutzman
August 15, 2002
I had the great fortune to work with
Rich from a business standpoint and I will always remember what a great and funny guy he was. My thoughts and prayers are with Rich's family and he will never be forgotten by all of us who knew him.
Shelley Haberman Casey
June 5, 2002
Dear Rich,
I had the opportunity to meet your lovely Monica on Sunday at the Family Memorial Service. It was a beautiful tribute to all, and she was a big part of making it possible.
She continues to work tirelessly on behalf of you, our Andrea, and all those who suffered so. To bring the TRUTH of those events into the light, for all to see. You must be very proud of her -- though probably not surprised.
We intend work with her, and offer her and your daughter our support and help in whatever way we can.
We will never forget.
Sincerely,
Shelley Haberman Casey
June 3, 2002
MAY THE SOUL OF RICHARD AND THE SOULS OF ALL THE FAITHFULLY DEPARTED THROUGH THE MERCY OF GOD REST IN PEACE AMEN.
Roseann Fornito
May 31, 2002
To the Gabrielle Family: I did not know Richard but have heard alot about him from my brother Vinny. He told me what good friends they were and he even knew my niece and nephew by staying at my brothers house every so often in Queens. He told me alot of funny stories that my brother now treasures. But the story that interested me the most was the story of 9/11 and how Richard died a hero saving people and for this, his family can be proud. Richard was not a fireman or policeman but he saved lives that day and risked his own, and for that, he is a hero. May God Bless Him and his family.
Brian F. Enerson
May 14, 2002
To the Family of
Richard S. Gabrielle:
I apologise that this letter took so long to reach you. It took me a while to accept Rich's tragic passing. I am still in disbelief.
I knew Rich for several years both as a client and a friend. We always did "lunch" when we got together for business. During those lunch conversations, Rich always talked about the love he had for his wife, Monica, and how proud he was of his daughter and all of her accomplishments. I remember the day when he got his apartment in the City. He couldn't wait to show me. He so happy to finally get rid of his long CT commute. He was re-living his youth, no doubt. But that was Rich.
Rich was a good and kind person. Always helpful. Always pleasant. Unfortunately, we fell out of contact due to company takeovers and downsizing, but I'll always remember Rich's laugh, his smiling face, great sense of humor, but most of all, his love of life and family.
Rich touched the lives of everyone around him. He was a very special person. He will be missed tremendously. My heartfelt condolences to the Gabrielle Family. May God bless you.
Chris
March 11, 2002
I didn't know Rich, but of all those on the list, he lived closest to my home in North Branford and I feel somewhat of a connection. He lived just a few towns away from me. Seeing the faces of the victims, reading their stories - it's infinitely more painful than seeing the crashes. To Rich's family: I am sorry for your loss and hope that someday, somehow, you find peace. God bless you.
Joy Bak
March 11, 2002
How blessed I was to have known Rich, if only for a moment. His spirit and joie de vie have left an indelible impression on my life, as well as those of many others. Rich was a man of character, dedicated to his family and career. Thank you Rich, for the short time I knew you and the impact you've made in my life. Let us all cherish a little more those persons that come and go in our lives, the ones we take for granted, those that we assume will always be there.
Patti Katz
February 12, 2002
I've only recently learned of your loss and would like to express my deepest sympathies. I worked with Rich many years ago at A & A and remember him as a wonderful, fun-loving person.
laura and daniel stark
February 9, 2002
god bless richard and may he rest in peace
Russell Moskowitz
January 23, 2002
Dear The Gabrielle Family:
I am so very sorry for your loss and pain, my prayers are with all of you at this time and forever.
Russell Moskowitz
January 19, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON RICHARD
S.GABRIELLE AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN
PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD
BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD
BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01...AMEN.
MY GRANDMOTHERS MAIDEN NAME WAS '
GABRIELLE ..HER FATHER HAD RED HAIR
AND A MOUSTACHE..THEY WERE FROM
CALABRIA..ITALY..THEY HAD RELATIVES
IN BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT..I FEEL
A KINDRED SPIRIT...
Teresa Gonzalez
January 14, 2002
I had the pleasure to work with Rich for many years. He was such a caring and wonderful person. Rich, you and your family will always be in my prayers.
john rufrano
January 12, 2002
rich and i met back in the summer f 1999 from a neihbor of his . rich was in need of automotive work on his 1986 chevy celebrity (clunker). one saturday rich had stopped by just to say hello. we got into conversation of new autos i suggested him to go look at the new vw passat . sure enough a couple of weeks later he calls on his weekend home,hey john guess what i bought the passat, he sounded like a kid with a new toy. right away the first thing he says you outa see the modifications you could do to this thing .i thougt i was dealing with an 18 year old kid on the other line.( as his wife monica called it his mid life crisis). well for the short time that i new him i really miss his weekend cruise bys in his supped up passat and his company. till we meet again your freind john.
Teresa Jahn
January 1, 2002
We are deeply sorry for your loss of Richard. May his life and love live on in those who love him. Our hearts cry with you.
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
Lisa Lefler
December 17, 2001
Dear Monica, Nicole and the rest of the Gabrielle family, Rich was one of the best people I ever had the honor to know and I won't be able to look at a Passat or listen to Frank Sinatra without thinking of him. A lot of laughter went out of Aon with him.
Always in my heart and prayers,
Lisa Lefler
Monica Gabrielle
December 12, 2001
I would like to take this opportunity to thank family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and those that have been brought into our lives because of this tragic event for their kindness, support and help. For those that were able to attend the Memorial Service, I thank you for helping to make it special. I hope that the message of love and kindness, along with laughter and happiness was recieved.
If God had asked me if I wanted to participate in this tragedy, I would have shouted NO! However, if God had told me that in order to know Rich I would have to be a part of this tragedy, I would have said YES, BUT TAKE ME INSTEAD.
We were truly blessed having Rich in our lives, if only for a short time. We will miss him forever. His spirit has given us the strength to go on day after day, and I know that he will guide us until we meet again.
Monica
Mike Graziano
December 10, 2001
I so looked forward to our chats about Italy. The pictures were great. Rich was really a nice person and someone I enjoyed spending time with.
Marla Doheny
December 9, 2001
It is so dark and cold this December eve, but still stand outside, staring at the stars, thinking of you. I know that you are up there, shining down on us, giving us what we need to get through the day.
I had dinner with Monica last night. We spoke of you again and again throughout the evening, feeling you with us, and bringing light and warmth to our evening. Pete thought you would have liked the key lime cake.
You know that I will do whatever I can for Monica and Nicole. I move on with a heavy heart, and a picture of your beautiful, smiling face in my mind.
Connie Gabrielle Finnicum
December 9, 2001
WOW...what wonderful tributes. You have touched so many lives, and that is what this life is really about.
The memorial was so beautifully done. It was obvious that Monica and Nicole put their hearts and souls into it. I want to thank them for this wonderful tribute to a beautiful man, on the inside and out! You did my baby brother proud.
I guess it's no secret to anyone how much Dick meant to me. He was my heart so consequently mine has a large gap in it right now.
I will honor his memory, though, by following his lead with warmth, kindness,wisdom, and laughter as I live the rest of my life.
Above all, I will always be there for the loves of his life, Monica and Nicole, when needed.
I am a sadder person for your loss, but a much much better person for your presence.
With love and misses forever and ever, Your sister Connie
Gabe Gabrielle
December 7, 2001
brother to brother: your ability to make us laugh; to let us know you are there, whenever needed; to openly share your ups and downs of life; your compassion to all people, that is so very rare; your never ending love of your wife Monica; your very special love and adoration of your princess, your daughter Nicole; and your daily emails & weekend phone calls to me sharing your new found love of racing & playing with you precious baby "P"; these are the traits that made you the wonderful person you are. Your physical presence may be gone but your spirit and smile will be with me forever. As I think of you I can't help but smile, as I'm sure you would want, for your ability to make us laugh to the point of cramps is something I will cherish forever.
God speed, "Uncle Rich", thanks so much for being you.
brothers forever
eric carlstrom
December 6, 2001
I worked with Rich at both A&A and Aon. During that time we had the opportunity to work together on a few accounts including IKEA. Once a year Rich would convince some unsuspecting underwriter (sorry if you are reading this) to take John D. the risk mgr Lisa and myself from Aon to dinner. Rich would always choose the restaurant and the wine. Always the best !!!
My foundest memory was our last dinner a few months back at a little place in Little Italy. After a few glasses of wine Rich started to sing along with the background music. Frank Sinatra. First it was just to those of us at the table, then to the entire room. It was vintage Rich.
I miss Rich's humor and charm. May God Bless his wife and daughter.
Musser Hall @Ursinus College
December 5, 2001
We just wanted to give our sympathies and let you know that you are not alone during this time of tragedy. May God be with you, and we wish you a Merry Christmas! You will never be forgotten!!
Memorial Service- St. Columba Church, Manhattan, Dec. 1, 2001- Sunflowers from Rich's daughter Nicole
Donna Gabrielle
December 4, 2001
As much loss as I feel, I know it doesn't begin to compare to the loss that my Aunt Monica and their daughter Nicole feel. My prayers are with you always.
To my favorite uncle, my Uncle Richie, who was also my Godfather. You left us far too soon, but you sure brought us lots of smiles and laughter while you were here. Your memorial service was Saturday, Dec. 1, and judging from the packed church in Manhattan (the same church your grandmother attended 40 years ago), you touched so many lives.
Here is a little something written in your honor:
Your Spirit Lives On
For Richard S. Gabrielle, 12/14/1950- 9/11/2001
The loss, the sadness, the emptiness inside
The pain and grief we cannot hide
Somehow it still seems surreal
But beyond the ashes of devastation,
Together we must heal
Because your spirit lives on.
Your spirit lives in our memories.
You gave so much joy to our lives
50 wonderful years worth.
We cannot let one day of terror
Overtake the mirth.
Your spirit lives in our acceptance.
Everything in life happens for a reason,
We may never know the reasons why.
We thank God to have been blessed with you in our lives,
Though it's not fair when people we love die.
Your spirit lives in our hearts.
You overcame and excelled.
A loyal husband, a devoted dad,
Gave your little girl love, support, and encouragement,
All the things you never had.
Your spirit lives in our hopes.
You made the most of everything
Though laughter sometimes hid the pain,
The little boy who lost his mom
Is finally in her arms again.
Your spirit lives in our minds.
You triumphed in the face of adversity
Successful in everything you tried
Intelligent, compassionate, and kind
Your passion for learning never died.
Your spirit lives in our faith.
Angel Gabriel is God's great messenger
Telling us we must be strong,
Treating others as we'd like to be treated.
In your name we must carry on.
Your spirit lives all around us.
The sunset that takes your breath away
The beauty of snowflakes on a winter's day,
A friendly dog who licks your face
The car that wins the race.
A warm smile from a homeless man
The view of the ocean with your toes in the sand,
The butterflies you feel when you're in love
The peace you see in the wings of a dove.
From the breath of mountain air to the stars that shine above
We feel your spirit all around us in your everlasting love.
Your spirit lives in our unity.
You enriched our lives
From the day that you were born
But your power is stronger now than ever
As friends and strangers unite and mourn.
Yes, it's time to say goodbye,
But only to the pain
We must grow from your great spirit
For you did not die in vain.
Your spirit lives on through our love.
Our lives are forever changed since the evil on nine eleven
But peace and freedom will prevail with your loving soul in heaven.
We must celebrate your life to heal,
Live our lives to the fullest to get beyond the pain.
You left this earth a hero
And your spirit will always remain.
Doris Leslie
November 30, 2001
Rich, words fail me somethimes when I think of this destruction that took you away. God bless your family and rest in peace!
Laurie Erickson
November 29, 2001
While I had the honor of working with Rich for only a short time, it was clear that he truly cared about his co-workers beyond the job. I am thankful to have known him.
Philip Urso
November 27, 2001
I had the pleasure to work with Rich for several years. His sense of humor, especially at client lunches was something special.He made you feel like part of his family. He will be missed.
Uncle Bill's 80th Birthday
Carol (Gabrielli) Sakmann
November 26, 2001
I will always remember growing up together in Lindenhurst and the day that Richard and George made me a bike out of old parts because I didn't have one on the weekends with them.
Richard, I will always remember the good times we had and the goofy smile you always had on your face.
My love and prayers to Monica and Nichole
Walter Slack
November 22, 2001
Although I have been retired from Aon for two year, Rich and I spoke by phone almost every day. We really bonded with each other. He was a great person. I will always miss him.
Deanie Buckley
November 20, 2001
To the Gabrielle Family: I worked with Rich on several accounts. He was a wonderful person to work with.He was always positive and complimented me on several occasions. Something you rarely here nowdays.He usually made my day. I never met him in person, but I could tell he was loving person.My heart goes out to all of you. God bless!
kimberley hess
November 16, 2001
May God Bless you Richard and your family.
kimberley hess
cambridge
KATHY CRAWFORD
November 10, 2001
MAY GOD BLESS RICHARD AND HIS FAMILY
KATHY
Caron Graff (D'Angelo)
November 8, 2001
A continuation from the generic site... My thoughts and prayers are with Monica, Nicole and all of Rich's family. As I mentioned, I worked with Rich 12 years ago. He was my boss and need I say, "the best boss I have ever had." We always kept in touch through the years, whether it be for a "job reference" or just to say "hello." I feel honored to have known such a wonderful, gentile and sincere human being. He will be greatly missed!
chris blaser
October 23, 2001
my deepest sympathy and prays for you and family....vwvortex...hv2apbt
Peter Olejniczak
October 23, 2001
My deepest thoughts and prayers are with Richard's family. Rest in Peace Richard.
Ronny Bijj
October 23, 2001
I'm sure I can say that for many of us at ClubB5 and VWVortex that Richard frequented who never met him,other than through posts on both clubs, we are all Richard and his love and passion for life,his family and his car. Richard will live forever through your memories,through our posts,meetings and get-togethers. He will always be there with us.
Joshua Tang
October 23, 2001
Mrs. Gabrielle, My condolences to you and your family. He will be in our memories.
a fellow VDub lover from www.vwvortex.com
Connie
October 22, 2001
I've lost the BEST baby brother that a girl could have asked for. Part of my heart was destroyed on Sept. 11th. I will miss and love you forever and ever. I hope Mom is taking good care of you!!!!
Your sister, Connie
Eric Nielsen
October 22, 2001
a loss takes not the tole of one person but to all those everywhere who can relate. our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
"Richard S. Gabrielle and "Baby P"
Kerry, Ming, and Kagen Christoph
October 22, 2001
For Monica and Nicole: our hearts are so heavy, and our tears flow freely.
We knew Rich only by his words, and they always reflected the man you describe. We only now discovered that sadness which you have had to bear, for which we regret. His passion was ours to share, and now we know that we also share your loss.
Please know Rich's passing is felt by more than you will ever know, and that Rich's humanity did not go unnoticed, and shall not go unremarked.
Leonard Randolph
October 22, 2001
May God's love envelope and protect Richard Gabrielle's family in their days to come.
Peter Piper
October 22, 2001
I am deeply saddened to have a fellow B5er pass away in this tragic manner.
I enjoyed his posts on ClubB5 and Vortex.
I will keep him in my mind as I enjoy driving my Passat with its windows down.
Rob English
October 22, 2001
I hope Richard is driving his beloved automobile with the windows down on a warm, clear, sunny summer day. I hope he is enthusiastically cruising on the most fun open road he could ever wish to drive.
I wish his family all the love and support we can possibly muster in the hopes that they can know they are not alone. My deepest sympathies go to Richard's family.
"Richard........keep on drivin'to your heart's content."
We miss you.
Leon Dixon
October 21, 2001
posted on VWVortex.com (Passat forum) thread in Richard's honor:
bond007goldfinger (Richard's member name on the Vortex), you are missed.
I've emailed with Richard a number of times. Good to know there's at least one Passat fan in Heaven.
I'm going out to take a drive in my modified Passat - a drive to nowhere - today, in bond007goldfinger's honor. In a small way I'll be driving with him.
Our prayers go with the Family he left behind.
ELKE McCOY
October 21, 2001
We send our love and sympathy to Monica and Nicole and to all of Rich's family. We will miss Rich's tenderness, sincerity, compassion and all of those attributes that made him such a special person.
We will remember Rich always.
Don, Elke and Bill McCoy
Becca
October 20, 2001
I am really saddened by the loss of one of our friends. He was a active member of clubb5.com and shared knowledge and love for his passion of his Passat. We will really miss him. God Bless
David Brown
October 20, 2001
With genuine sympathy, David.
VW Vortex member
john bogan
October 20, 2001
Rich, I'll never be able to look at a Passat without thinking of you and that big grin on your face.
God bless.
Suzanna Verrelli
October 18, 2001
I'm sorry for your loss. May God be with you all. <3
Valentina Verrelli
October 18, 2001
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Im so sorry for your loss.
Catherine Sakmann
October 18, 2001
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL
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