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Aaron Horwitz Obituary
Once, Aaron Horwitz had what most people would consider a supremely lousy day. A friend asked him how he would rate it, from 1 to 10, with 1 the worst.
"Eight," he replied.
You could get a contact high from Mr. Horwitz, 24, a bond broker at Cantor Fitzgerald with the almost laughable responsibility of entertaining clients and making them feel like the most important people in the world.
As if anyone had to pay him. For he was not just a showman, who did the Michael Jackson moonwalk on bar tops and who, at a museum, drew his own masterpiece on a mist-coated window next to a Rembrandt.
He seized souls, not letting go until he made them merry. He met a guy in a toy store and, moments later, the two were having a hula hoop contest. He insisted a concierge stop weeping over a bad breakup, then called her at 2:30 a.m. to make sure. He sweet-talked hostesses at four-star restaurants into producing tables for eight (and their phone numbers for dates) and persuaded a street masseur to let Mr. Horwitz give him a massage.
"You could talk to a brick wall," his father told him. Yes, allowed the son, but he preferred chatting with a mirror. He often did so, then fell over, laughing.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Lindsey
October 11, 2021
Truly funny. We will always remember. May God continue to comfort the family.
Alex
January 19, 2020
As the days and weeks pass, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family.
July 6, 2019
I am beyond sorry for your loss, buddy.
But you rose into the heavens with grace and dignity. See ya in the afterlife.
David Lindsay
September 10, 2018
Aaron, after running in a race a few years back that honored fallen firefighters from 9/11 I decided to learn a bit more about the hero on my bib that year and posted his story on line. I also then decided to pick a name each year from that long list, learn a bit about them, talk to my kids about them and post a part of their story on my Facebook page each September 11th so that friends and family might take a moment to remember what was lost. This year I selected you. I have read so many warm and kind tributes to you that it feels like I was able to peak into your soul just a bit and see a kind, friendly, warmhearted and incredible man. You are surely missed by all those that loved and knew you. I am glad that I had the opportunity to read about you and the type of man you were. Rest in Peace Arron...you will always be remembered!
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Adrian Alexander
March 29, 2017
Aaron was a funny guy. He was always a joker and never had a bad day. I knew him for only 3 months but 27 years later I still remember him. It was and still is a tragedy to of lost someone that was loved by all that met them.
Darren Pym
March 29, 2017
I'm from London, UK and I was Aaron's councillor at Racquet lake summer camp back in 1990. I have only recently found out about Aaron's fate as I met up with some former staff and another room mate in London. Everything I have read about him at an older age is how I remember him when he was 14, a cheeky chappy as we would say in London. He was always playing the fool and being jovial. If you told him off he would just put a big infectious grin on his face and you would have to turn your back and just smile.
My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, I can't imagine how devastating it must have been for you all.
Like I say it was many years ago and I cannot recall if I ever met Aaron's family but I'm sure I did.
Just remember his smile and I'm sure it will bring a smile back to faces. X
rachel farkas
September 12, 2014
You will always be in our hearts and minds-
Sarah Farkas
September 11, 2014
You and your siblings, Mom and Dad are forever in our hearts. The years pass but the heartache and memories never do.
February 2, 2014
i may not know who you are , but i hope you rest in peace , God give ur family strength , amen
Bo Davis
September 14, 2013
Every year this time you come moonwalking back into my consciousness. I will never forget you my friend. Never.
Margot Spigelman
September 13, 2013
Crazy, it's been so many years. Raquette, Wisco...it all feels like yesterday. I will never forget that day. I will never forget you xo
Sarah & Judith
September 13, 2013
Always in our hearts.
Rebecca Bellissimo
September 13, 2013
Aaron, I think about you alot, and I think you help me guide my path sometimes. I'll always remember you, and keep you close. Your cousin. ~Rebecca Bellissimo
Aunt Rachel
September 10, 2013
you are always in our thoughts- more so on these september days. love to you forever.
becky ryan
September 11, 2012
I still think about you all the time. I get sad, but I always smile at the memories. I am thankful that you were in my life.
Bo Davis
September 11, 2012
I will never forget you my friend....
Rachel, Rebecca, Stephaie, and Daniel
September 10, 2012
You are in our hearts forever~
Jayeesha Dutta
September 7, 2012
As we approach the 11th anniversary of that terrible day we lost you and so many others, Aaron, still remember your spirit and energy. Rest in Peace.
Jennifer Butler
September 12, 2011
Allan and Liz - I think you often and am so happy to know you even under these sad circumstances. Please know that Aaron is remembered not just on a single day but throughout the year, every year. Best to you both.
Alexis Daloni
September 11, 2011
Aaron was my neighbor and friend when I lived on Bleecker street in NYC. When my roommate and I moved in he came over to welcome us to the building. He was so charismatic and friendly. He was the kind of man who lit up a room and made friends everywhere he went. I only knew him for a short period of time, but even in that small window, he touched my life and I will always remember his kindness. The evening of September 10th, 2001 he invited me to spend time with him and his friends the next evening. I am sad that we were unable to meet, but I cherish his memory. When I attended his Levaya, I was awestruck by the stories that his friends and family read at Temple. He left a legacy and will be greatly missed.
sandra weinberg
September 11, 2011
Aarons picture is on a shelf near my door so everyone who comes to my house can see his smiling face and hear about what a great person the world has lost.
My thoughts are with you all that knew him
Mathieu Belair
September 11, 2011
MC
September 11, 2011
I was sharing fond memories of you yesterday with friends. I think about you often, your glowing smile and boundless energy. Your family is in my thoughts today. Giant hugs!
Kimberly Barger
September 10, 2011
Thinking of you & your family! You were & always will be "one of kind" ...an amazing soul!! Xo
Michelle
September 11, 2009
To the Horwitz family – I never had the honor of knowing Aaron. He was an old, dear friend of a dear friend of mine and we had many college friends in common, though I never had the pleasure of meeting him. I think of him often, which I realize is odd considering I never knew him. His passing deeply affected our mutual friends and his absence continues to be felt. I hope you can find some solace in knowing that he is remembered and will always be remembered, even by those who did not have the chance to know him in this life. His life very much mattered, which is all anyone can hope for - it continues to shape the lives of many, whether he knew them or not. God bless.
Sarah and Judith
September 11, 2009
Aaron and Aaron's family....we loved the short time we got to know Aaron and wish we could have more....I know you do too. We love you all.
October 6, 2008
laura
October 6, 2008
dear santos valentin thanks for helping.
Aaron Johnson
June 23, 2007
I found this because of a myspace "google your name" thing. People like Aaron rock, simply put. It sucks to loose people like these because they are everyone's friend, and the type that everyone can look to.
Denise Krenski
March 28, 2007
This year, like every one following the WTC tragedies, the NYC high school where I work, which is also the one where Aaron's younger brother is an alum, gives out the Aaron Horwitz Award to a student who exemplifies the passion for life and laughter that Aaron had. It is always a tearful moment when we get ready to present this award, for the truth is that it would be much better to have Aaron here instead. But, I find great solace in knowing that the spirit with which he lived his life - the positive energy he exuded, the vivacity he possessed and, clearly from reading these other entries, the charm with which he approached every moment and every interaction - enters into our ceremony and one deserving student is privileged enough to be likened to him. Each year, as the recepients have approached the podium to accept this honor, their smiles can be likened to his large, welcoming and peaceful.
You will always be remembered!
Margot SPIGELMAN
March 25, 2007
I can't believe it's been so many years since the nightmare of 9/11. I think of Aaron all the time.He was the big brother I never had. I have never really come to grips with the loss of Aaron, until now.
I am living in Utah now, and made a memorial for him at the top of a mountain. It was my way of finally letting go. Aaron will always be with us, in our hearts and in our memories.I just know that his spirit lives on. Aaron was one of a kind.
Kimberley Ritchie
November 19, 2006
Mr and Mrs Horwitz,
I think of you and look at Aaron's picture. I know what pain you still endure. Even though I never met Aaron, I feel as though I know him though you. What a joy he must have been. A wonderful person who had it seems a million friends. You told me so many stories about Aaron, and his love for life. The stories I've read in this book show how many lives he touched in his short 24 years. Your family is still in the thoughts of many people, and Aaron will never be forgotten. Please know that I'm there for you, and I love you.
P Tabbernor
November 11, 2006
In memory....
Kristine
November 6, 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.
Carrie Strauss
September 11, 2006
To the Horwitz Family,
On this 5th anniversary of 9/11 . . . I am (as I often do) thinking of Aaron . . . of all the memories I am lucky to have of him. Aaron taught me how to navogate NYC before I understood how to know East from West! He taught me how to laugh at myself, and how to make fun out of nothing at all. But what most people who have signed this book did not meniton, is that Aaron could also be kind, generous, and loving- he could absolutely be serious when the situation called for it, and he was there to help when help was needed.
I wish that I could have one last conversation with Aaron- to know that he knows how much I cared for him and that I still think of him all the time. My friends and I recall memories of times spent with Aaron. It's hard to believe it's been 5 years since he was so tragically taken from this world- I know he's keeping his company smiling- wherever they are now!
Elizabeth (Betty) Margolis
August 26, 2005
To the Horwitz family:
I was looking for the obit of a friend when I found this guestbook again.
I am Rhoda's first cousin--I'm the daughter of Irving and Marie Margolis. I wrote to Rhoda and Gerard back in October, 2001 of my deep sadness at the loss of this remarkable young man.
I reread these messages today--I hope in some small way they comfort you. So many of us--those who knew him, and those who only knew of him, still hold him in our hearts.
Sheila Bartley
August 5, 2004
To the Horwitz Family,
I just read the last entry in this guestbook before mine and I decided I had to write something too. I was also at the wedding that Michele Kowalski wrote about; my cousin Shawn Jones married Jeannine Damiani. I too that night noticed an exuberant young man, dancing the night away, with Jeannine and Shawn and all of the others from Cantor that night in June 2001. It was your son Aaron, and he was dancing up a storm and had the hugest smile on his face. After September 11th, when Jeannine was tragically taken from us, I asked my sister if she knew if the other people from Cantor who had been at Jeannine's wedding had also died. I specifically asked about Aaron, I didn't even know his name at the time but the image of him dancing at that wedding was something I could not get out of my mind. I am so sad and angry that someone that full of life is not with us anymore. I think about September 11th all the time, I think about Jeannine, I think about my cousins beautiful wedding and all those people from Cantor enjoying life and dancing the night away, and Aaron always pops into my head. I hope you find even a tiny bit of comfort in the fact that people who did not even know Aaron were touched by him and still think about him.
Michele Kowalski
June 23, 2004
To the Horwitz Family,
Although I never met Aaron, I have a wonderful memory of him that I would like to share with you.
The last time I saw my best friend from childhood, Jeannine Damiani-Jones, was at her wedding at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens on June 16, 2001. It was an utterly beautiful wedding, and the crowd from Cantor was especially having a blast. There was one young guy in particular who almost literally didn't stop dancing all night. His shirt was soaked and he was smiling the biggest smile I'd ever seen. He was the life of the party and my husband and I asked his name. Jeannine's mother told me he was Aaron.
I looked through the list of names on this website tonight for anyone named Aaron. When I clicked on your Aaron's name, I instantly recognized his photo.
Jeannine died on September 11, and shortly after, I found out that 24 of her wedding guests were killed that day, as well. When I asked her mom "How about Aaron?" I was told that yes, he, too, was gone.
I am terribly sorry for your loss. What a shame I never formally met him, but can picture him dancing to this day. He stands out in my mind as a representation of the young, exuberant lives that were stolen that day.
I hope you have found a measure of peace and comfort in your lives. My deepest sympathy to your family.
Jenny Olsen
November 25, 2003
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Horwitz and Family,
This should have been written long ago, but I just found out today from a mutual friend about Aaron. I am terribly, terribly sorry for your loss.
I used to play hockey with your son at Sky Rink in the early 1990s. I have photos of him at a birthday party that was given for me at the time. One of them is of Aaron being held over our heads and being passed from person to person in the restaurant where the party was held. I'm not sure why we were doing this (!), but it seems to sum up the way I remember Aaron - funny, goofy, easygoing and extremely likeable. I also remember speaking to Mr. Horwitz quite often at Friday and Sunday hockey clinics, having what I thought at the time were very intellectual discussions. (I think I was 15.) Although he may not remember them, I have always appreciated being treated like an adult during those talks.
Many memories of Aaron are running through my head now...and of course, I am laughing while I am thinking of them....
Again, I am so sorry,
Jenny Olsen
VIRGINIA DUNTON
September 12, 2003
Dear Aaron-It will soon be 2 yrs since I received a prayer card with your name on it.I did say a quick prayer-then I went 'on-line' for info about you.What a happy face you have, what a nice description of you I read. A wonderful young man every family would be proud of.
I immediately felt proud to have selected your name from the prayer basket.You inspire me to have a good day, & to see the delight in it.Your photo has been on my bulletin board all this time. I start my mornings by saying "Hi Aaron," & I try to include you in my prayers. I have gained so much by seeing your photo as I start my day. Angels are with you.-Love,Virginia
MARGOT SPIGELMAN
September 11, 2003
NEW YORK CITY, RAQUETTE LAKE, WISCONSIN....I HAVE KNOWN AARON FOR SO LONG. IN MY HEART I FEEL LIKE HE IS STILL HERE. I THANK AARON FOR ALL HE TAUGHT ME..TO LOVE, APPRECIATE AND TO LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST THE WAY HE DID..SO I DO. NOT A DAY GOES BY WHEN I DONT MISS AARON. LOVE YOU AARON!!!
Candy Reiser
April 24, 2003
To Aaron's Family, I worked for you at one time. I was thankful that The office and your apartment was out of range of the World Trade Center Devistation. It and you were safe. I was thankful when I didn't have to work in Manhattan that day. Hoping that you and yours were ok. A whole Year had gone bye and I saw Aaron's name in my local newpaper. I remembered then, that he worked there. I felt terrible. It was already a year later and I didn't even know. I thought it would be too late to call or write.
Today I saw this Guestbook and finally, I decided to post a message. I hope you have learned to live on. I met Aaron only a few times. He was so handsome and smart, and friendly. He made me feel like I knew him like old friends from the first time he popped into the office. I am sorry for your loss. I have prayed for you to accept this tragedy and you have been in my thoughts ever since.
Brian Smith
December 25, 2002
Not one day has gone by since 9/11 that I have not thought about Aaron.
He was one of the greatest guys I have ever meet in my life.
I will never be the same after 9/11 and after losing someone like Aaron.
My prayers are always with Aaron and his family...everyday.
Claire Kronser
September 16, 2002
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting you, I know your cousin Stephanie. She is a student in my class. She adores you and has many fond memories. Sept.11,2002 was a heartbreaking time of remembrance for her and the rest of your family as well I'm sure. Stephanie is a sweet girl. I feel a certain connection with her because my cousin Matthew also worked with you. Matthew never came home. From reading the article about you, I know both you & Matty had much in common. You were both fun loving guys. I will continue to pray that time would ease that pain for your family however never dull the wonderful memories of you! Those are always to be cherished. -Claire Kronser
Tonya Butler
September 13, 2002
On 9/11 my high school pasted out ribbons with the names of those who had pasted away , I felt like I wanted Aarons family to know that he will be in my prays. after reading some of the entries in the guess book Aaron seemed like a great guy. Once again I felt that you should know he will be in my prays and his family as well
GOD BLESS
stephanie` bellissimo
September 12, 2002
aaron,
you are one of the best most funniest cousins i have! you would always make us all feel good when ever we were together. do you remember the time at my bat mitzvah last summer(in 2001) when the party wasn't moving as good as it should be, so you , with all of your cloths on, with your cell phone in your pocket, jumped into the pool! It was deffinetly something to see! then you did your one of a kind Michael Jackson, Billy Jean dance. it was great! i just though that i'd let you know how much that we all over heaar in oregon miss you terribly!!!!****!!!!****!!!!
Love always, your cousin, for ever and always,
Stephanie
Matt Halberg
September 11, 2002
Aaron-
Who could ever find the right words on a day like today. You were a true friend, from Madison to England and Scotland, from Greece to New York. I feel so lucky that I had a chance to know you, and so cheated that you were taken away so early. You will be sorely missed but always remembered.
To the Horwitz family- While I never knew you, I knew your son well. He was an amazing young man. I am so sorry for your loss and only hope that you have been able to heal over the past year. My prayers are with you.
Matt
September 11, 2002
Aaron,
Your legacy of love, laughter and happiness lives on. You are missed today and everyday.
David & Joyce Oberg
September 10, 2002
To the Horwitz family~
At times like this words cannot say the things we'd like them to, but may it help today to know our thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are there with you. your friends, David & Joyce
Virginia Dunton
September 8, 2002
Dear Aaron-Today I received a prayer card with your name on it.I am proud to honor your name in my prayers, and to pray for your loved ones left behind.
kimberly barger
April 23, 2002
dearest aaron,
your life is such an inspiration to others. i am fortunate to have known you. i think of you often and wish you were here with us still. god bless you and keep you always. my prayers are with you and your family. love, kim
Russell Koonin
April 18, 2002
From all your friends at Raquette Lake, you will be dearly missed.
lisa sherlock
April 18, 2002
Dear Horwitz family,
I didn't know Adam but I was reading the portraits of grief and he certainly struck me as the kind of person I would like to have know. I can only imagine the kind of happiness he must have given you. I am terribly sorry for your loss.
My thoughts are with you,
Lisa.
Jennifer Gerard
March 18, 2002
To the Horowitz Family:
Please accept our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy as you mourn the loss of such a soul like, Aaron.
We meet Aaron at a party for our beloved friend, Stephen Colaio, who also perished in the WTC attack about two years ago! We are devastated that both Aaron and Stephen are no longer with us.
Aaron, my husband and I talked and laughed and really had a nice time at Stephen's birthday party.
We have been praying for you and him since we found out that Aaron was tragically among the missing.
Please know that you will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Aaron was a great guy...very funny and had such a personality on him.
All of our thoughts, prayers and heartfelt sympathy,
Jennifer and Vinny Gerard
Jason Merker
February 27, 2002
I have still not come to terms with never seeing Aaron again, having him make me laugh or spending time together either in NYC or Raquette Lake, his second home. For all that knew him, he has left behind only memories of happiness. Any time Michael Jackson comes on, or another of Aaron's classic songs by the all time greatest pit party thrower, I cannot help but feel a great loss. After the initial sadness, I am always left with a smile, cause that's all Aaron knew how to do, make people smile. He is missed everyday by his friends, brothers and parents. Aaron made the most of his time here and he would want us to do the same.
February 4, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL YOUNG MAN AARON HORWITZ 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
Neal Hurwitz
January 23, 2002
For Aaron, out of this terrible mess...this horror of loss...this terrible injustice for so many...
I say:
L'Chaim!
Thank you Aaron!
Neal Hurwitz, Stuyvesant HS '62
Eric Lockovitch
January 18, 2002
Aaron, thank you. Thank you for making Ann's life in NYC the best time of her life. You dined together, traveled together, partied together,laughed together, and died together. I'm jealous my friend, you're with her now and I have to wait. Keep her laughing, I know you will. Thank you Aaron.
Eric
Wolfgang Schumacher
January 16, 2002
Aaron, what a smile!
You must have been a light to many you came in contact with.
Be with God... rest in peace!
Joseph Dumas
January 16, 2002
Dear Aaron, Whereever you are, thank you! I have been laughing ever since I read your profile. Thank you for the light you gave.
Mark Harvison
January 16, 2002
Aaron,
I never had the priveledge of knowing you, but I will never forget you. I bet you were a great person to be around. To your familiy, please know that a family in Georgia will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you all.
A Fellow American,
Mark Harvison
gary nelson
January 15, 2002
aaron-i just spoke with your mother about this tragedy and the great relationship you had with datter ann-i understand that you and ann had breakfast together on the l0l floor regularily- you all will be missed beyond expressed words-ann's dad
Kenny Hoggle
January 14, 2002
Over the years you became a true friend to me. You always seemed to make me smile and feel better about myself. You are and will always be one of my favorite people that I have had the opportunity to be around.I truly miss you my friend.
The Rev. Jose Bove
January 14, 2002
Aaron, I salute you with respect for your joy of life and for the happiness you must have given others with your sense of humor and sheer delight at being around people. From Lakeland, Florida I send your family my sincere condolences and a word of reassurance to remember your wonderful personality when they feel their grief. You must have given your family and your friends a special gift as you made them feel that they were truly Children of God, made to enjoy life the way you enjoyed your short life. Good brother, be with God. Amen.
Jose P. Bove
Lakeland, Florida
Teresa Jahn
December 28, 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
Frances Klein
October 27, 2001
Lech B'Shalom, Aaron; Go into Peace
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