Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Warren Grifka Obituary
Nine years ago, the health of Warren Grifka's elderly mother began to deteriorate. Mr. Grifka, a Marsh & McLennan computer specialist who lived with her in Brooklyn, took on her care. "He'd be up all night with her," said Bonnie Montellaro, his older sister. "Then he'd go to work in the morning."
He quit taking vacations or going out with friends. Mrs. Montellaro said she and Henry, their younger brother, wanted to help or hire round-the-clock help. But Mr. Grifka, 54, would not hear of it, she said. "His feeling was that this was his job and that was it," she said.
Last year, Frances Grifka, who had been bedridden and largely unable to communicate for three years, died at 86.
"He was just starting to live again after my mother died," Mrs. Montellaro said. "He was back seeing his friends and going to movies." He went to Florida to see friends and relatives — his first vacation in a decade. An accomplished baker, he spent a Saturday showing a Brooklyn chef how to make his famous cheesecake.
"He was out, which was so nice," Mrs. Montellaro said. "Out to dinner at night, out on the weekends. He had just got his life back."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Leslie Honcharik
September 15, 2022
I never knew Warren but found his story on Marsh and McLennan's memorial website. He must have been an amazing gentleman, compassionate and caring. The fact that he took care of his elderly mother, putting much of his own life aside to do so, is a tribute to him. I did the same for my mother from 2011 to 2021. No easy task, believe me! But well worth it. Warren, your life and sacrifices will not be forgotten.
Howard Chernick
September 11, 2019
On the 18th anniversary of 9/11, I started reading thru the list of victims. I was shocked to see Warren's name.
Back in 1976, I started my first job at Equitable Life. Warren was the first person to introduce himself to me. He then took me around to meet all of the coworkers. I never forgot that kind gesture.
Over the next few years, I became friends with both Warren and his brother Henry. They were the 2 nicest guys in the world. Never said a bad thing about anyone.
I remember a funny story that Warren once told me which I still tell others about. He said that one morning, before heading out to work he took the garbage out from his house to drop off at the curb. He said that he was rushing to catch his train to work. When he sat down on the train, he noticed that he still had the garbage bag full of garbage with him.
Unfortunately, I lost touch with the Grifka brothers. Finding out today what has happened to Warren breaks my heart.
P Tabbernor
October 26, 2006
In memory....
Kristine
October 26, 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.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Anthony Bono
September 2, 2003
I recently learned of this site and in visiting it was saddened to hear that Warren's life was lost on that day. I knew Warren from Johnson & Higgins, back before it was sold to Marsh. I worked in the Los Angeles branch, but would often take trips back to New York on projects. I met Warren on one of these and spoke to him a few times on the phone. He was always extremely helpful. I am very saddened to learn of his tragedy and my heart goes out to his family.
Judy Schwartz
October 21, 2002
Many years ago I worked with Warren at Equitable. On the anniversary of the WTC attack I heard Warren's name announced in the memorial service and I froze in disbelief. I immediately checked the New York Times website and my fears were confirmed. The description of Warren's caring and sensitive nature certainly confirmed for me that it had to be the same person I had known twenty years ago. I checked my recipe file, and immediately searched for the copy of his cheesecake recipe that he had given me so many years ago. I will forever think of Warren whenever I make "his" cake. I wish his family and friends my sincere condolences and wish that they find strength in their memories.
Angie Campbell
April 30, 2002
May God Bless you and watch over the ones that you left behind. Rest in peace..........
Denise & Craig Lassen
April 8, 2002
While we never knew Warren personally, we have heard about what a wonderful man he was through his sister-in-law Fran and his brother Henry. Our hearts are broken to see such a wonderful family as theirs touched by such a tragedy. It seems that Warren was one of those rare gems that touched so many lives with his caring and compassionate nature while he was here. We continue to pray for strength for their entire family to cope and hope that soon Warren can be remembered with love and happiness for all he was instead of for the pain of how he died.
Bernadette Kozak
March 10, 2002
I have heard SO many incredible things about this wonderful man from his devoted sister-in-law Fran Grifka....I wish peace for his family...his brother and sister, and all his family members.
January 28, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL MAN WARREN GRIFKA AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..AMEN
Judy Close
January 15, 2002
I knew Warren years ago at Johnson & Higgins, when I worked there. I always thought of him then, and especially, now, as a wonderfully sweet, gentle guy who was super nice and friendly. Memories of him came instantly to mind when I realized he was lost on Sept. 11 and it pained me to find out. May he rest in peace and I'm so glad I knew him. J&H staff were always the best, and the nicest to work with and know.
Judy Close, Woodhaven, NY
Karen G. Moore
January 3, 2002
Be at peace with God.
Teresa Jahn
December 30, 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
Dianne Purdy
November 4, 2001
My Prayers continue for your family. It has now been almost 2 months since the tragedy but my heart still aches for your great loss. If only I had the words to comfort you.
Enid Wainwright
October 22, 2001
I was a co-worker of Warren's many many years ago. Warren was one of those few people who always smiled and never had a bad word to say about anyone. It's been years since I last saw Warren, but the idea that his life was snuffed out in a flash will haunt me forever.
Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results
Make a Donation
in Warren Grifka's name
How to support Warren 's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Warren Grifka's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored