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Giann Gamboa Obituary
Just about everything Giann Gamboa needed in his life he found at Iglesia Nueva Vida, his church in Corona, Queens. There he found his girlfriend, hundreds of pals, a weekend soccer team and a spiritual life. As often as he could, he tried to bridge his professional life, as a manager of the Top of the World Cafe, with his religious life, sometimes offering a word of prayer to a troubled colleague or an invitation to join the church's daily 6 a.m. prayer service.
Friends at church still talk about how Mr. Gamboa, 26, arranged for 70 children from the church to visit and pray atop the World Trade Center a few months ago. "He loved being a Christian and sharing his faith with people," said Fernando Montoya, his best friend.
The last time anyone saw Mr. Gamboa, he was on the 78th floor about to squeeze into a crowded elevator as the building was being evacuated. But he offered his spot instead to a young woman on his staff who was crying and anxious to flee. "I'll just take the next one," he told a friend, as the elevator doors shut.
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Jorge Diaz
September 24, 2024
Giann worked for me. One of 2 jobs he had back then to help support his family. He was an excellent employee and a great friend to his coworkers. I visit his name in the memorial every time I get a chance, and cry a little. I don't live in New York any longer but I don't forget him or the thousand others that died that day.
Gabriela Gamboa
December 2, 2023
It's amazing the people (your friends) still remember you and your birthday..!! I love you Giann and miss you a Lot.
Victor
November 30, 2023
I am remembering you today as it is your 49th birthday. Sending you a hug and all my love. You will not be forgotten.
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Joanne Arnone morales
September 11, 2023
Never forgotten my dear friend....joanne
Bobby Cinque
September 16, 2021
Rest In Peace Giann !
Cindy Roe
September 14, 2021
Remembering Giann on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....
Andrés Pérez Goñi
July 1, 2020
En lo poco que pude conocer a Giann, me demostró la gran generosidad y gran corazón que tenía.Se portó muy bien conmigo y guardo un grandísimo recuerdo.
Descanse en paz.
I watch your name being read every year. RIP
Bobby Cinque
September 12, 2019
Bobby Cinque
September 12, 2019
Rest In Peace Giann
Joanne Arnone Morales
September 11, 2019
Never forgotten my friend. Sleep in peace. God bless.
Elda Paredes
September 10, 2019
Never forget
Billie Cash
January 2, 2019
Yes this entry is truth. I researched his life and wrote about it in a book PrayerSurge Billie Cash
The Lucas Family
January 1, 2019
Our deepest continued sympathy we send to your family. Time doesn't completely take away the pain of losing someone loved. Everyday may God give the help needed to cope. Giann is still missed by others.
Joanne Morales
September 11, 2018
Always in our thoughts - SIP. Joanne
Joanne Arnone
September 12, 2017
Never forgotten!
Bobby Cinque
September 12, 2016
Never forget ! RIP Giann
September 11, 2016
God Bless you and rest in peace. Thanks for being there for Richie that day.
Joanne Arnone
September 11, 2016
Remembering you on this day. You are greatly missed.
John Carrozzella
September 11, 2016
RIP buddy...thanks for always making me smile! You are a true hero, I sincerely wish my wife and kids had the chance to meet you because their life would have been better for it!
September 11, 2015
Never Forget
Joanne Arnone
September 11, 2015
Always think of you and the great person you are. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Gaby Gamboa
July 16, 2015
días como estos en los que te extraño tanto.. lo mejor que la vida me dió..!! Te quiero hermanito bello, mi gran orgullo.
September 12, 2014
RIP My friend, i listen for your name every year.
September 11, 2014
thinking about you and Rich a lot today!
Nancy Beeck
September 11, 2014
Giann, you have not been forgotten and while I think of your beautiful heart throughout the year, I say extra prayers for you and your family every year on this day.
Vanessa Sevillano
September 11, 2014
I wait for your name to be said every year. Rest in peace.
Gaby Gamboa
September 10, 2014
one year more, and one heart less, i really love you every day of my life..!!! I miss you brother i miss you so much..!!
Gaby Gamboa
September 13, 2013
Thanks everyone for your words, and for still having my brother in your thoughts, each passing year, I remember more and more strange, is and will always be my best friend.
Bobby Cinque
September 12, 2013
i cant believe its been 12 years, giann, you will never be forgotten . RIP my friend...my prayers are with you and your family...
September 12, 2013
I am honored to visit your space and see your name many times each week. I miss your humor and can still hear your voice as clear as day. We all miss you.
Tony SanGiovanni
Rich Costa
September 11, 2013
I am sorry pal. My son, your namesake is a lot like you. Keep watching over us.
Nancy Beeck
September 11, 2013
I know Giann is smiling down on his family and friends. As today is the 12th Anniversary I just wanted to post a note so his family knows Giann is not forgotten but is thought of often!
Jason Fisher
September 11, 2013
I am a student at DCS and i was supposed to a report about someone in 9/11 and i choose him because he was a real hero
joanne morales arnone
September 11, 2013
Hi Gabby. Yes your brother was a very special person and my prayers go out to him today. Have a great day.
Gaby Gamboa
April 3, 2013
Thank you all for the nice things they say about my brother, should have a special place in his heart for each of you. I love you my hero ;)
I am Giann´s sister
Joanne Morales (Arnone)
March 7, 2013
Wow, I don't know where to start. I was one of Giann's manager's at Wendys where we worked together many years ago. All these years I thought if Giann was a victim of 9/11 and I couldn't figure out his last name for the life of me. Well the other night I layed and still continued my search and dreamt of his name....and here now I very saddened to know he was a victim of 9/11 but my mind is at ease and I know he is at a very special place in heaven because he was a very special man. I always remembered his smile and what a hard worker he was. He was great hearted and always wanted to help everyone so it doesn't suprise me that he gave his spot on the elevator so someone else can survive. My condolences go out to his family and I would like you to know that he will always be looked at as an incredible person. Giann, you will always be remembered.
Tony SanGiovanni
November 21, 2012
Giann I am lucky to visit the memorial very often pass by and think of everyone but especially you. Almost every day I visit the site I always remember your "cries of anguish" echoing through the entire core of the 107th floor. It meant you were still glad to see me. I remember the Friday Sept 7th on the deck, saying goodbye. I miss you.
Tony
Bobby Cinque
September 12, 2012
was thinking of you on your 11th year in heaven my friend, i watched them read your name again and felt so sad...rip my friend. so sorry for your family too.
Ana Guerrero
September 11, 2012
Amigo donde quiera que estés, espero que puedas sentir el amor de todos los que te extrañamos. Me siento muy afortunada de haberte conocido en esta vida y espero que nos volvamos a encontrar en el camino. Donde quiera que estés, se que estas irradiando esa luz tan especial que tienes a todos los seres que ahora te rodean. Un abrazo amigo, te quiero mucho. Bendiciones.
Elda P.
September 11, 2012
In memory of Giann, Blessings to his love ones on this day.May you find comfort in your hearts one day at the time.
Gaby Gamboa
September 11, 2012
I never tire of mourn for the pain of losing you, I love you so much brother, your words the way you are with me, you were my best friend, with whom I could always trust, who never left me and I always defended ... can take tens of years and I just miss you, no one like you. And in another life I hope we can be together again. You are my hero never forget.
September 11, 2012
I never tire of mourn for the pain of losing you, I love you so much brother, your words the way you are with me, you were my best friend, with whom I could always trust, who never left me and I always defended ... can take tens of years and I just miss you, no one like you. And in another life I hope we can be together again. You are my hero never forget. I really love you a lot.
Jessica Hernandez
September 11, 2012
"Chinita i just wanted to tell you that everything is going to be ok..." those were the last words Giann said to me the day before this tragedy happened. We become very good friends and He always give me strengh and show me how to talk to God in difficult and good times. And always I will remember him with this words because I know that He is with God and that everything is going to be ok. i miss you a lot Giann but I'm sure you still praying with me every time I do!!!! Descansa en paz. Amen Amen
Elda Paredes
April 12, 2012
Acabamos de visitar 9/11 memorial y leyendo Los nombres Por alguna razon se nos Grabo su nombre entre tantos que leeimos ese dia. R.I.P y que Dios les de fuerza cada dia para sobrellevar su perdida God Bless you and God Bless America.
December 11, 2011
i miss you brother, every day of my life.....
Julian Gamboa , Ambato Ecuador
Billie Cash
October 11, 2011
In honoring Giann Gamboa whom I have NEVER MET, I wrote a tribute to him in my book "PrayerSurge."(2005)Chapter 7 Altering your Course. I tried unsuccessfully to find a family member. I wanted to send this book as remembrance of his life, courage, faith and example. If you know someone in his family please let me know. Billie Cash www.billiecash.com He was more than a hero. He was God's man on the job. America had a heart attack that day. Giann saw and gave life to others. His brief powerful life is a witness to God's love. We must remember our heroes forever.
September 17, 2011
Gaby Gamboa
September 14, 2011
Hermosoooo eres y seras siempre lo mas importante en mi vida, eres mi hermano y mi mejor amigo y aunque no me hables se que me escuchas te quiero y mi amor sera siempre incondicional.... Te extraño tanto y lo haré toda mi vida.
Jessica Torres-Brito
September 11, 2011
It's been ten years since the day God took you to his side, yet thos fun high school years seemed to have happened yesterday...I will always love, remember and cherish every good time we had!
Bobby Cinque
September 11, 2011
RIP my friend, im sure you are keeping the angels in heaven smiling !!
Nancy Beeck
September 11, 2011
Giann, it's been 10 years now but you are still in my thoughts and prayers. I think of you often (and your wonderful smile)and know you are watching over your friends and family. God bless!
Fernanda Saenz
September 10, 2011
Ten years have past, but nobody who knew you has forgotten you. Giann, you'll always be in the minds of the people you touched with you're kindness and good soul.
John Carrozzella
September 10, 2011
I had the honor of working with Giann for many years at the WTC. He was an amazing person who could always break me out of any bad mood I was in simply by teasing me. Hy heart broke when I heard that he was one of the victims of 9/11. I always tell people with a cracked voice about his bravery on that awful morning. Giann is a true hero...may he rest in peace!
Gaby Gamboa
November 28, 2010
Mañana es tu cumpleaños, y aunque no estes conmigo siempre te recuerdo, y mas en estas fechas te quiero y te extraño mucho hermanito muak
September 12, 2010
We remember you this dearly...Love you buddy
Gaby Gamboa
September 11, 2010
Hermanito eres mi vida entera... te voy a extrañar siempre you´ll be always in my heart, ers lo mas grande que la vida me dio... Siempre estare orgullosa de ti te quiero mucho ;)
September 11, 2010
Siempre me acuerdo de ti querido Giann... se q ahora estas en un mejor lugar :) Que descanses en paz amiguito!!!
N.C.
C.H.
September 11, 2010
You are missed my friend.
bobby cinque
September 11, 2010
you will always be in my heart giann, rest in peace my friend !
Paul Koetting
October 27, 2009
Giann, I didn't know you but I found your name on Richie Salinardi's memorial page. I grew up with Richie and we were close friends. I read that he was last seen with you and that you had a trip planned together. I recently looked at your memorial page and some of the entries that were left. I can't tell you how comforted I was to know that Richie spent his last moments on earth with someone like you. What a blessing it was for him to have you there during such a tragic moment. He was a good man and you were fortunate to have him as a friend. I'm grateful for you.
Krystal Penafiel
September 10, 2009
Even though i did not know Giann F. Gamboa I just found out he had died and was apart of my mom's side the family and i just turned 12,i really never knew him our really seen him i was only little but i will regret it for the rest of my life i hope that i will see him in the after life my god take care of you and my the lord bless you with all his might i wish you luck up there i will always remeber you for the rest of my life love ur distant cousin xoxo <3
Gaby Gamboa
June 6, 2009
Giann is my brother, and he was my best friend too, every day I remember all the things I used to do with him when he came to Ecuador, Giann was the most important person in my life and my big pride, I miss him a lot... I am grateful to all hes friends especially Rich Costa, because I know how my brother appreciated you.
Rich Costa
April 22, 2009
I have never forgotten you. Keep looking out for me!
Bobby Cinque
November 25, 2007
Gian was a great guy, he was kind to everyone.. i was supposed to be with him that morning for a delivery, and my partner cancelled it late the night before..My heart bleeds for his family and friends..Rest in Peace my friend
Anthony Dedos
September 11, 2007
I had the pleasure of working with Giann for several years. I knew him pretty well since I seen him almost every day, But I can just image what a blessing he was to those that he loved most. Im sure God will have a nice place for him in heaven. R.I.P. Gamboa.
Vanessa Sevillano
September 11, 2007
I met you in Feb 97 Ambato, Ecuador.. one night when I was with cousins during "las fiestas" you came out and we had a such a good time. We taught everyone there how to dance Bachata... that was great... We all danced on a street and you took my cousin and I safely home. You told me you lived in the NY/NJ area and we kept in touch when we came home. You were a wonderful and caring person Although we only hung out a couple of times.. you and I shared lots and lots of laughs :)... I thought of you on 9/11 when I got the call from Nadia saying you were at the WTC... I know you're at a better place now and believe we'll continue the laughs when we all see each other again.. till then friend.. keep smiling like you are in this picture.. thats exactly how I remember you..
chiquita
September 11, 2007
Hola chiquito te cuento que todo por aca esta un revulu pero como sabes nuestro Padre siempre esta en control , te veo en el cielo y casposo me ganaste la carrera no ! pero no te preocupes te alcanzo. Que Dios bendiga tu familia. TQMTe.
Nyles Seru
July 26, 2007
As I surf the net I came across this page. I was very hurt and almost broke down in this Net Cafe. It is my prayer that your soul will find rest in God. Till we meet again at Jesus feet. Glory be to God.
Kate Warner
May 25, 2007
Although I never met Giann, I do celebrate his life everyday by flying his flag at my home. I am from the Des Moines, Ia area where a memorial was held last year for each victim of 9/11. Homesteaders Life Insurance Company displayed one flag for each and every victim with the option of anyone buying a flag. I did buy one and received Giann's. I fly it proudly. I would be interested in knowing more about this young man who gave up his life to allow another to hopefully escape from the WTC.
Kristine
October 25, 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 11, 2006
In memory....
Angelica Loveless
September 7, 2006
Todos los dias le doy gracias a dios por permitirme conocerte y atrvez de ti conocer mas sobre el amor de crito, tu vida seguira siendo ejemplo para todos quienes tuvimos la suerte de compartir contigo.
Te seguiremos extranando
FERNANDA SAENZ
August 31, 2006
I know it's been a long time, but I had to do it. I'm from Ambato, the city where Giann lived long time ago, and where their family come from. I knew Giann in such a beautiful way, I was very depressed about some problem I had and he approached to me, he din't even know me, but he offered me his helping hand, I suposse he did the same up there in the twin towers, and that's why he is with God right now.
Michael Iezzi
May 27, 2004
Giann,
After reading your story about you giving up your spot in the elevator, you are a true hero. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
CARLOS DAVILA
May 19, 2004
I love to know that Jesus is hugging Giann right now. He is a friend, a brother and I am happy to know that when we meet in heaven, we'll be able to remember our past, and enjoy an amazing eternity in streets of gold and a crystal sea!
September 11, 2003
Thinking of you today. See you on the other side
Tony SanGiovanni
October 8, 2002
How I miss you Giann. You took my spot to manage that Observation Deck and you learned the ropes. I always remember your battle cry (Uhyuuhhuhh!!!) echo through the core from the 107 to the 110 floors. We spent alot of time together, and we had plans to open the best eating place in NY. You will always remain the strong, kind and wonderful person that I will always remember. We helped each other many times, even that last Friday. If you did get to Ecuador that week, I bet you would have been made El Presidente!! God keep you. I miss you, hermano.
Tony
jennifer villamar
September 11, 2002
How can i forget those moments with you ,such a nice person. A cousin that i looked up to .People like you we can't find every day.One of my best moments was when we went to the W.T.C. and gave you a suprise and we went up where you worked and this lady told me that i looked just like it was an honor for me and still is. But i know your happy cause your with God and there is no better place . We lost a such a nice person but we've gained an Angel.
Alexandra Villamar
September 11, 2002
I want to say that Giann no matter how long time goes on....you are alwayz thought....1 week before this happened I wanted to see you and i felt the need to hug you. i recently found out you were going to talk me into assisting church in which i find very thoughtful. I will never forget all those beautiful memories I have from you. May you guide us all into your footsteps and may God bless our family! I miss You!!!
your cousin.
LORIAN KING
September 11, 2002
TO THE FAMILY OF GIANN,
MY HEART REACHES OUT TO YOU ON THE LOST OF A LOVED ONE.
I WORKED AT OGDEN ENT WITH GIANN IN THE GIFT SHOP AREA ON THE 107TH FLOOR.
I HAD THE PLEASURE OF WORKING WITH HIM AND KNOWING HIM FOR OVER 3 YEARS.
THE MORNING OF 9/11 WAS VERY HARD FOR ME BECAUSE ALL I COULD THINK ABOUT WAS HOW WERE MY FORMER CO-WORKERS AND ALL OF THE INNOCENT PEOPLE WHO PERISHED.
GIANN YOU ARE AMAZING INDIVIDUAL TO GIVE UP A CHANCE SO THAT SOMEONE ELSEWOULD BE SAVED.
IN GOD'S RICHEST BLESSINGS MAY YOUR
SOUL REST WITH ALL THE ANGELS IN HEAVEN.
TERRY EDWARDS
September 11, 2002
Giann,
You were a great co-worker with a heart of gold. One significant thing I remember about you was your (Smile) For his smile could brighten up anyone's day. May God continue to watch over your soul for eternalty.
Mariano Cantarelli
September 11, 2002
Giann, somos muchos en el mundo los que pedimos por tí, y por la paz de tus seres queridos.
Estes donde estes te envio un gran abrazo
Mariano
John Torres
September 10, 2002
You had a heart of a lion. The world needs more people like you. You will be miss.
Gabriel Gamboa
September 10, 2002
Your sacrifice will not be forgotten. Your strength shall be a light for us all.
A friend in prayer
September 9, 2002
God bless you and all of the other heroes of 9/11. I pray that your soul finds peace in heaven. For your family I will pray that they also find peace and comfort through this difficult time.
Xiomara Caicedo
June 1, 2002
Giann,
You are a true hero. You gave up your life to save someone else. I really admire you for that. May the lord bless your soul, and your family and friends.
To the family of Giann,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will also like to say, thank you for raising such a noble person. Que dios los bendiga siempre.
Raysa Medina
May 28, 2002
You are missed Giann, I remember you being funny, and fun to be around. I wish for your family and friends to find solace in the great memories you left. We will always remember you..... with love always.
May 28, 2002
Creo q uno de los mejores regalos q Dios me pudo haber dado fue el haber conocido a Giann. El fue un magnifico ser humano y me enseño mucho de la vida. Se q ahora Giann es bendecido al encontrarse en el cielo con Dios.
Giann, te extraño muchisimo!!!
Bendiciones a toda su familia.
Abby Acosta
May 26, 2002
Giann, you were anything but average, I will always love you, I'll see you in my dreams.
I miss you.
Abby Acosta
Marilyn Rivera
May 26, 2002
He was an extraordinary co-worker.
Siempre lo recordaré...
Angie Campbell
April 26, 2002
May God Bless you and the family and friends that you left behind on 9/11/01 as you went to heaven. Rest in his loving peace..........
Grace
March 17, 2002
Giann, I didn't know you, but your story touched me. You must have been so loving and giving. You gave your life so that another may live. I know you are in heaven and I pray that your family takes comfort in knowing that.
Angela Groth
March 11, 2002
I'm glad you are now with the one you loved, our Lord Jesus Christ. Great is your reward in heaven. I didn't know you but read a story about you and all that you did for others.
I hope the girl who worked for you, whom you gave the spot to in the elevator, will come to know the Lord the way you did. There is a reason for things although we cannot always make sense of them. God will work things out for good. My prayers go out to his family, also be comforted in knowing this brave and kind man is now in a more glorious and wonderful place.
Love, a fellow Christian
Anonymous
January 19, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THE
BEAUTIFUL FACE OF GIANN F.GAMBOA AND
MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD
AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS THIS HERO
HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01...AMEN
Richard Costa
January 16, 2002
Giann worked for me when I was GM of the Observation Deck. He was the best. He was both a hard worker and a really nice and kind person. When ever things got tense, he would tell me "Rich, relax". I try to imagine him telling me that know as I worry that he is ok.
He did not really get into religion until after I left to become a theology teacher. We had a great relationship, but I wish we could have had some talks about what became his passion.
I have two sons, and I would be honored if they turned out like Giann.
I miss him so much.
Rich Costa
Nancy Beeck
January 13, 2002
My heart goes out to all of the family - I had the pleasure and priviledge to work with Giann for several years. He was always ready with a smile no matter what - I know I will always remember him.
Jennifer Claire Scott
January 8, 2002
A kinder soul, I have never met.
Giann and I shared an office at Top of the World. He taught me to be a more patient person. And I am honored to have called him a friend.
Teresa Jahn
January 1, 2002
We are deeply sorry for your loss of Giann. May his warm heart, his life and love live on in those who love him. God be with your hearts and may the sorrow in your hearts be lightened by His touch. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of Giann.
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
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