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Matthew Diaz Obituary
Matthew Diaz was a man with a conflict on his hands.
A carpenter specializing in laying floor tile and carpets, he had a friendly wager that he could put in more hours than his foreman during 2001. But his desire to get an early start on each workday was impeded by his late-night routine: he liked to stay up until midnight or later, playing video games with his two sons.
"He couldn't stop talking about his kids," said William Gonzalez, Mr. Diaz's friend and foreman at New York City District Council of Carpenters Local 2287. On Sept. 11, Mr. Diaz, 33, was laying tile in the elevators of the Cantor Fitzgerald offices.
Long before, he and his sons, Michael 7, and Christopher, 4, had a lot to deal with. His wife, Karen Diaz, received a diagnosis of late-stage breast cancer a year earlier. Mr. Diaz had been caring for her, and preparing their sons for carrying on without one of their parents, but not without him.
The older son still goes to the front door some days, hoping his father will come home — to build more Star Wars figurines, skateboard or ride bikes with him, go to his soccer practice, listen to the stereo. "He was just a family man," said Florence Kneff, his mother-in-law. "He worked, and he came home."
103 Entries
Florence Kneff
September 15, 2023
Not a day goes by that you are,not thought about or loved.22 years and it feels like yesterday love hugs and kisses to you,Karen and Michael
Joseph Marrone
September 14, 2023
I’m sorry I haven’t written here in awhile. Always thinking of you Matt. You are missed and never forgotten. Say hi to Karen and Mikey I didn’t know about him until recently. I still cannot believe it.
Vicki Fiedel
September 11, 2021
Always missing and thinking about you Matthew. Even though we weren't related by blood, I always considered you my brother. Living with us until you met Karen and started your new journey. At least you are both together again, I just can't believe it is 20 years already. xoxoxo
Florence Kneff
September 8, 2021
Twenty years my dear son in law and the pain of losing you still hurts.We will never forget you. Loving and missing you very much.Rest in the sweetest heaven and kisses and hugs to Karen and Michael
How you can show support
Cindy Roe
September 7, 2021
Remembering Matthew on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
September 11, 2019
RIP my friend
Florence Kneff
September 10, 2019
Forever in our hearts and always in our thoughts. You are missed and loved very much.HUGS AND KISSES TO KAREN AND MICHAEL
Matt Diaz
April 5, 2019
On a recent family visit to NYC we went by the 9/11 memorial to pay our respects and to show our children the magnitude of what happened that our words can't convey properly. We were struck to see your name on the wall (my name is also Matthew Diaz.) I've read and learned more about you and your family on this page and others... I am beyond sorry for your passing and what it has meant to those who love you most. I'm glad we found your name. I wish our paths could have crossed in some other unexpected way. Peace to you, your wife, your boys and all who are missing you.
Thomas Fahy
November 9, 2018
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. You were a Great Mechanic and the summer of 2001, we were together on the weekends @ Dewey Ballantine corridors. I will always have that Memory of the time we spent together.
gina schulz
September 11, 2018
We miss you Matthew each and everyday. Can not believe it has been 17 years.
September 10, 2017
Another year without you. You are always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. We miss you and love you much.Please keep watching over Michael and Christopher.love and kisses to you and my Karen❤❤
September 10, 2016
15 years ago. It still hurts to think,about,it. We think of you every day.. You will,always be in our hearts and in our thoughts.. Kiss my Karen. We love you both
Judie Boertlein
September 11, 2015
Matt it's been 14 years and you are still terribly missed. Our hearts still hurt. Kiss Karen for us. Love you kid.
September 10, 2015
14 years ago you were brutally taken from us. You will always be in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. We miss you very much. It does not get any easier for us. . Kisses to my Karen. Michael turned 21 this year and may be following in your footsteps.working in union. Chris will be 18 and still undecided what to do . Hopefully everything works out for them. Keep watching over them and try to give them a sign that you and Karen are there for them. Maybe you need to give them a littler pat to let them know you guys are always with them. Love and miss u much.
jim bird
September 8, 2015
To all the good times Matt. Your high school friend . JIM BIRD
Jason Dick
September 11, 2014
Another has passed, you are miss and never forgotten.
Vicki Fiedel
September 11, 2014
After 13 years it hasn't gotten any easier. I will always miss you and Karen. Xoxoxo
Florence Kneff
September 8, 2014
Always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. You are missed and loved very much.Keep watching over the boys,they need a sign that you and Karen are their guardian angels sitting on their shoulders and walking besides them. Love flo
September 8, 2014
You are missed and loved so. Forever in our hearts and always in our thoughts
September 8, 2014
Once again you are missed and loved and always will be I our hearts and thoughts. I wish you could give us a sign that you are watching over the boys. It still very hard for us all at this time.i still watch all the stories hoping that you are among the crowds running from this tragedy. Wishful thinking on my part.
September 7, 2014
Rest in peace Matt! You and Karen were great friends and neighbors!!!
September 12, 2013
Dear Matt 12 years and it seems like yesterday you are missed and loved very much .always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. Love flo
kim betancourt
September 11, 2012
another year and we still feel the pain from that day that none of us will ever forget, godbless the diaz family..
Bill and Cindy Jewtraw
September 11, 2012
Matt, We just wanted you to know that we are thinking about you, not just on this aweful day, but continously throughout the years.
September 10, 2012
Dear Matt That horrible day is once again upon us. You are missed and loved very much. Michael is now in college in Florida Chris is doing okay.Please watch over them. Keep them safe. Give kisses to my Karen
Tracey P
December 3, 2011
How cruel life can be - my heart aches for you all....you, your wife and especially your boys. As a Mother whose child is her life I cannot imagine the agony of having her left without either parent. I wish your children the most blessed of lives - well as much as that's possible without you both. Rest in peace with your wife. XXX
Joseph Marrone
November 20, 2011
Was thinking about you alot in the past hour, almost as if you were saying hello in some way. I always think about you and Karen....
Nicole
September 12, 2011
I cant believe its been 10 years. It seems like just yesterday that you and Karen came down to FL and took Brianna and I shopping. I will always remember your smile and how you always made us laugh(I never saw Chris smile as much as he did when you were around. I know that you, Karen and Chris are now all together). Still to this day I dont understand why such bad things have to happen to such good people. You and Karen are amazing people. The way you loved eachother was amazing (I hope to find that kind of love one day). I know your boys were everything to you both and I know that you are both looking down on them. Not a day will pass that I dont think about you both. We love you Matt and miss you.
Cindy Jewtraw
September 11, 2011
Matt, I can't believe it's been 10 years. We think of you often and not just on this day. You are always in our hearts! Miss and Love You!
The Jewtraw's
Bill, Cindy, Mariah, Kelly and Billy Jr.
Port Richey, FL
amanda and frank
September 11, 2011
dear uncle matt
i miss you sooooo much and i wish you were here right now.i love you sooo much and say i to everyone.
September 11, 2011
Dear uncle matt
its been 10 years since you've been gone, and everyday we miss you more and more. we love and miss you so muchh
love
alexandra and johnmicheal
chris diaz
September 11, 2011
I miss you so much daddy I want you back so much we had so much in common. I think about you every day and the good times we had. You are my idol and you are the best dad in the world and I love you so much.
September 10, 2011
Dear Matt 10 years its seem like yesterday. We miss you and love you more than ever. You are always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. Michael just turned 17 and got his drivers license, Please watch over him. We will not be going down to ground zero tomorrow. we will go to th staten island memorial instead where there is a postcard remembering you my dear son in law. Love florence michael and christopher
Curt Denninger
September 8, 2011
Think about you everyday Matt, we miss you!!
kim betancourt
September 7, 2011
wow can't believe it's been ten years since that horrible day, that took so many great people from all of us,god bless the diaz family for all they have been through,and god take great care of christopher and michael.....
Jason Dick
September 5, 2011
Matt you are missed. Ten years has past and your families /friends love for you has grown ten years Stronger.
Jason Dick
June 29, 2010
Hey Matt Now its 2010 still think about you. And will never forget you.
BILL JEWTRAW
September 10, 2009
Hey Matt:
Well it is another year gone by and i was thinking about you all day today.all the great times we had together,man i really miss those days.well just want to say hi,and love ya man.i will see you someday.take care and god bless the boys.
bill jewtraw.
Florence Kneff
September 10, 2009
Dear Matt Once again its that time of the year when you left us.We love and miss you very much. Frank anI will be down Ground Zero tomorrow. Maybe Christopher wants to come. Michael is still very anger and doesnot talk about that day. I know you and Karen are always with him. You guys are always in our hearts and thoughts.
Curt Denninger
September 8, 2009
Matt, your are alive in our hearts minds and your children, we miss you and love you, Curt
September 7, 2009
Ray bascaglia
Doug Abraham
May 19, 2009
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Curt Denninger
November 1, 2008
To the Diaz Boyz,Your Father was Awsome,Great Person,Everyone liked him,All Kind's and click's,Everyone!Matt and I met in Fla,as teenager's,me just comming from N.Y.,,Matt and I loved N.Y.and would alway's talk about how when we controlled our own destiny's,we would each return to N.Y. We loved N.Y. we had that old school N.Y. state of mind,ya know,delicatessans,Frank Sinatra,The Yank's,Ranger's,the know it all,with class attitude,To me a New Yorker represent's an American more than any other citizen,we are the soup in the melting pot,very cultured people,and Matt was a man of all People,Matt and I had a mutual respect for each other instantly,love and miss him,,,he was an awsome person,and a real New Yorker,and a great american,,,,,,,Curt
florence kneff
September 30, 2008
hi Matt. and my baby Karen. still missing you so very much.Chris hope you are with them.the boys miss you all so very very much. You guys are always with me I think of you every day and wish I could see you. till we meet again loving you always mom
MaryAnn Simone
September 12, 2008
Matt and Karen are always in my thoughts. I hope that Christopher and Michael are doing well. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.
bill jewtraw
September 12, 2008
Hi Matt;
Well it has been 7 years since the tragedy took your young life, i think about you everyday that passes.when you use to call me from new york and we would talk for hours like 2 girls (lol).i can still remember the last conversation we had,we were talking about how we both grew up and had kids now,and how the kids changed our lives forever,and we always said we wish we had our kids at a younger age as we both seen what we were missing all those years without our little ones.you were a true champion at everything you did in life.i really miss you !!! well pal,take care and i will see you someday again.
your best friend
bill jewtraw.
kim betancourt
September 11, 2008
your family is in my thoughts and prayers,especially on this day! I hope and pray that the boys r doin great and thrivin,and become men in time like their sweet and great father was.god Bless
Deb McFadden
September 16, 2007
Dear Matt and Karen, I am sad today and wishing you could send your brother Chris back to us. I know you have him in heaven now and he is visiting with you again and with your mom. Chris missed you every day and it is hard to believe that so much tragedy can hit one family. I never thought Chris would be next. I talked to Chris about your boys often and now feel even more sad that they have lost the uncle they loved so dearly. I'll miss you Chris but I know you have now been reunited with your brother and you are probably having a big party with lots of movies and music! I can't believe it's been 5 years since Matt and Karen are gone.
Sarah
September 11, 2007
I have tried to write every year on this day to remind you that I've never stopped thinking about both of you. Not a day goes by when I don't think of Karen's strong will and smiling face, even the days she would come in for treatment. She could brighten everyone's day. God Bless you both and it helps to know that two people who loved each other so much will go on together, forever.
September 11, 2007
dear matt, Six years and the hurt is stiil here.Frank and I just came back from ground zero. We will always love you and you will always be in our hearts and thoughts. Please give karen a big hug and kiss from me, flo.
MaryAnn Simone
September 11, 2007
I was the receptionist at the company where Matt worked. I will never forget him and his friendly face. The office would light up when he walked in. Such a sense of humor! He loved his family with a passion. I'll always remember you Matt!
Christopher Diaz
September 11, 2007
I wish I can see you once more daddy, I will always love and remember the great times we had. Give mommy a big kiss I miss her too.
Ed Reiser
September 10, 2007
I remember Matthew when he lived in Florida.He was about 8 years old. I hung out with his brothers Chris,Mike and Anthony. I didn't find out that Matt died until a few years later. I remember he was a good kid.
Joseph Marrone
August 20, 2007
The last time I wrote in this memorial it was about 5 years ago. I have been thinking about Matt, Karen, Mikey and Christopher alot lately. I miss Matt alot as he was a true friend and such a great guy. Im not good at putting things im feeling into words but I am trying. Its been almost 6 years since 9/11. I still pass by Matt and Karens old apartment and pause and look and remember the way he would be outside calling me in to hang out and play some video games, or have a late night snack. Im glad for those times I had with him and his kids, times I NEVER will forget and as I get older I miss him and his kids more and more. I have prayed alot for you, Christopher and Mikey....I hope you are both doing well. Always remember your Dad and Mom and know how much they loved you both and what UNBELIEVABLY GREAT people they both were. May God continue to Bless you both and your family. You both probably dont remember me as you were both too young, but I will ALWAYS remember you both as I will remember your Mom and Dad.....
bill jewtraw
August 3, 2007
To my once best friend:
I have been thinking about you alot lately as my mom & dad both passed away ,as i remember you use to adore my mother well you are now with her too,please give her a big kiss and i will see you both someday again.i can remember all the good times we had together especially when we went out clubbing and were in our teens early 20"s.how time has changed.you will always be in my heart and not a day goes by that i dont think about you.
your best friend in florida.
bill jewtraw.
Stacey Monaco
March 27, 2007
Matt & Karen,
Not a day goes by that we do not think of you both. We miss you very much. I wish you both can come back to us, to see you smile, for you to yell at me or mommy. It has been very hard for her. I know you are up there looking over us and guiding us in the right directions. Everyday I can feel you next to me life is not the same without you. I feel very lonely without you. I cant' wait to met you again someday. I have alot of good stories to tell you. For now I have to stick around to take care of all the kids. I love you both and miss you very much
Alexandra Monaco
March 26, 2007
Dear,Uncle Matt and Aunt Karen
I love you so much.You will always be in my heart/right beside me.I miss you two so much.i will never forget you guys.It"s really hard with out you guys.But we try so much.I will always love you guys and never forget you.we all miss you.
michael Diaz
March 26, 2007
dear daddy,
i really missed you, things haven't been the same since you passed away everybody really misses you, i wish you weren't in the twin towers at that time i hope you and mommy are having a great time in heaven. i love you guys very much i willl never forget you guys
jonmichael monaco
March 26, 2007
Dear Uncle Matt and Aunt Karen I was only 2 weeks old uncle matt when you died and aunt karen i was only 5 months old when you died. I see your pictures and love you verymuch and i know you guys would have loved me to pieces
christopher diaz
March 26, 2007
Dear Daddy, I wish I could see you once more.Like your spirit at night when I am along and full of fright.I wish I could see you once more I would happy like never before I wish I could see you once more, wait I can in my heart full of your love that flows down a river, a river that you never seen before,Give mommy a big kiss and hug I love you christopher
Amanda Monaco
March 26, 2007
Dear Uncle Matt and Aunt Karen,I am very very sad that you guys are not here with me. I love you both very much. love,amanda
Ed Reiser
March 18, 2007
I remember Matt when he was about
8 years old. I used to hang around his older brother's Mike,Anthony and Chris. This was back in the early 80's in Florida. We lived in Port Richey in the Gulf Highlands sub division. We had some good times back then. We lost touch over the years. I did'nt find about Matt until a few years ago. It's such a sad loss.
You don't realize how small the world is until tragedy srikes.
florence kneff
January 11, 2007
I lost a won derful son in law on that horrible day and 4months later my beautiful daughter. I will never stop thinking about the two of you. The hurt never goes away, you are always in my thoughts. I love you guys. Matt I know you were there waiting for Karen, thank you
Sarah Ytreoy
November 16, 2006
The Diaz`
I still think about you all. Matt, Karen and Kids, I pray that you are all doing well and happy, wherever you may be. God Bless You All.
Kristine
October 24, 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
September 24, 2006
In remembrance....
Sarah Ytreoy
September 11, 2004
The Diaz',
On this three year anniversary I am speachless. I think about you everyday. Karen, you are missed by so many but I keep you in my heart as if you were still here. I know that you and Matt are watching over Michael and Christopher and this great nation to keep us safe. I miss you both but mostly thank you. I keep you all in my prayers every moment. I will never forget that day.
Dan Maltese
March 2, 2004
To the Diaz Family,
I just recently heard about Matt being in one of the towers on September 11. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. I only have a story to offer about how I knew Matt. Matt and I attended the same school years ago. One day, we physically bumped into each other in the hallway. The next thing we knew, a fight was scheduled. Matt was one of the tougher guys at school. Not someone you particularly wanted to fight. As young men trying to find our way through adolescence, though, these things happened. The fight, with our pride on the line, occured in front of the girl's bathroom with about 75 spectators. It was my first real scuffle. In the end, we both fought to the best of our abilities, with Matt getting the edge.
The funny thing was, about a week later, I saw Matt again and he asked how I was doing. We talked for a while and learned that we misread each other. After that, every time we saw each other, we went out of our way to say hello with mutual respect.
To an outsider looking in, what happened may appear to be just a couple of boys flexing their chests. But it was more than that. It was about kids finding their way through awkward teenage years. Pushing boundries. Building a foundation to become a man. From what I read about Matt, he became just that; a proud father and husband.
My message is that his boys, too, push boundries as they become men. Not necessarily by my example, but be proud of who you are and find passion in what you do. Set examples for those around you. There is your family, and an entire country, behind you.
Sarah
September 11, 2003
Karen,
Two years today, my dear friend. Oh how I miss you. Not one day goes by that I don't think of you. I pray for Michael and Christopher and of course, you and Matt. I tried not to cry for you today, but hearing your name, Matt down at ground zero broke my heart all over again. Florence, Stacie and family, may god bless you. Keep the strength. Most importantly, to Michael and Christopher...your mother had the face of an angel and a smile that can't be described. Keep your heads up and stay strong.
Ryan Callas
September 10, 2003
To the Diaz family, I happened to come across Matthew's profile and just wanted to extend my regards to his children and family. America feels your pain and will forever remember the loss of a great caring father like Matt.
Sincerely,
The Callas Family
Mrs. Almodovar
August 6, 2003
To the family of Karen and Matt,
Know that you are always in our prayers. To their children, know that your Mom and Dad are always with you. Always listen to your heart and you will hear them talk to you. Always stay strong and remember, you are loved by so many people, even if they don't know you personally.
God Bless you all...
The Almodovar and Garcia family
If there is a charity for this family, please email me.
Thank you.
Nicole Gilbo
April 7, 2003
I was very close to the whole Diaz family, my mother use to date Matthews brother Chris so Matthew, Karen,and the kids are very close to my heart. I have never met such caring people before,they had always treated us like we were family and I love them all like they were.Karen and Matt were the most loving parents I know.I heard about Matt and Karen's death Feb.2002 and I was speechless and heart broken.I felt that I had lost an aunt and uncle of my own.
My heart and prayers go out to Florence and the boys. Just a few months ago I did a walk for breast cancer and on my number I put a picture of Karen and Matt. I pray everynight that god watch over the boys and hopefully ease the pain and anger a little because that is what Karen and Matt would want. To Florence I admire your strength and you are a wonderful,caring person.If you ever need anything my mother and I will always be here for you. I really loved Matt and Karen and hope that they may rest in peace. May God Be With You and God Bless You. Also I am sorry for anyone who lost a loved one to the pain is awful but we can hopefully all pull together and get through this. I will always caring my memories of Karen, Matt and the boys with me for the rest of my life.
Chad Jeffry
September 16, 2002
On September 11, 2002, our entire school wore wrist bands with the names of people lost on 9/11. My had the name of Mr. Diaz. I decided to research his life a little and this is what I found. I am sorry for his boys and may God bless them.
Helen Flood
September 13, 2002
Dear Ms. Kneff, Out of all the sad stories I have read since 9/11 I thought that your daughters was the hardest one to take. I'm so sorry that she had to suffer both physically and mentally after the loss of her husband.I'm thankful that she knew she'd have you to help her kids through their grief.My thoughts go out to you and those beautiful boys.
Sal Gallo
September 12, 2002
To Christopher and Michael, I am sorry for the loss of your father Matt, I went to school with him in Florida as a teenager and had alot of fun together growing up in Florida. He was very funny, always making people laugh. I will never forget his smile. And just the way he caried himself all the time. He never took bullying from anyone but would stand up for you if you were his friend. He was a great friend, I only wish I knew him as a father, He is very proud of the two of you I'm sure. Remember your father, I always will. If you ever want to know of your Dad as a Kid just contact me, He had and still has alot of friends who have many stories for the two of you. May God keep you as he does your Mom and Dad.
Traci Trovik-Rich
September 11, 2002
I am so sorry to hear about this great loss to this little boy. May God Bless you and your Angels always watch over you. Please give him your prayers through out his life.
Terry Oldes
September 11, 2002
I went to mass at Holy Name Cathedral here in Chicago this morning and by the altar next to an American flag there was a large bowl filled with red, white and blue pieces of paper and on each piece was the name of someone lost on 09/11. I pulled the name of Matthew Diaz and have pinned it with an American flag and have been wearing it all day and to the memorial service here at Daley Plaza. I have been thinking about him all day and my heart and prayers go out to his family.
kirk watson
September 11, 2002
to the diaz family and matt' sons.matt,your dad,was a great guy.i grew up with him here in florida,went to school with him.i will always remeber him on this very sad day.keep your heads high he would not want it anyother way.boys stay in school and do your best,love each other and your love ones with all your might.matt had alot of friends here in florida .our hearts ,thoughts and prayers will be with you!
Joseph Marrone
September 10, 2002
To Mikey and Christopher Diaz and the rest of the family,
I would like to say that there is not enough room here to state all of what I would like to say about my friends Matt and Karen Diaz. Today will be one year without Matt. Not a day goes by that I dont think of him laughing, joking around, washing his car, playing video games and more importantly loving his kids and wife.He was as dedicated as a man could be to his family. Mikey and Christopher, I want you guys to know that your Dad loved you both very much and especially your Mom. Whenever I was with him all he did was talk of his kids, they were his everything. May God bless you Mikey and Chris throughout your lives, and may you rest in peace Matt and Karen.
Sincerely,
Joseph Marrone
Erica Johnson
September 10, 2002
I did not know Mr. Diaz personally, but I wish I had. I learned about him with this profile only. I had an assignment to write about 11 people from 9-11 that I learned about, selecting them randomly from this site. I found Mr. Diaz's name and I was touched by the story. He was a dedicated man, focused on his family and making sure that he let them know he loves them very much. He was hardworking and caring, and he will not go unloved. My thoughts are with you and your family, Mr. Diaz. Good luck to you all. God Bless.
The Jewtraw's
July 27, 2002
To the Diaz Boys,
We knew your father when he lived here in Florida before he met your mother. We never got to meet her. Matt was a great guy with a BIG heart. I can remember some of the crazy days and I keep those memories with me. I just wanted you to know that your DAD was a great person and he was definately someone you could be proud of! He was a great friend.
Christopher Merz
July 25, 2002
To the family,
First let me say there is no way that I could know how to start this, When Matt first came to Brooklyn, I was already working with his brother Mike and mutual friend Albert. On the day I joined the Navy, Matt was the one that gave me the advice I needed, to know the commitment was the right thing to do. Currently I am in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia. Everyday here feels as if it was hell. But I now know why I am here and why it has to be done. All my heart goes out to that beloved family. No one was ever a better Father (Matt) or Mother (Karen) to their Children.
To the rest,
Don’t ever forget what the Diaz family brought into your lives. No matter how small these memories are, they hold the truth and light needed for what the world could be. A small glimpse at hope is a valued view into humanity.
Arthur Diaz
March 12, 2002
To the Diaz boys,
I hope you get some small consolation from knowing that you are in the hearts and minds of people all over the US and around the world. My wish for you is that you grow up in peace among friends and family, and are able to remember and learn how much your parents loved you.
Tina Bratland
March 11, 2002
It has been six months now since WTC were attacked. The memories of this tragedy are all to painfully clear. God Bless those little boys. My prayers are with you.
marianne,suzanne,frances danilak
February 28, 2002
Florence. We are all sorry to learn of Karens death.We followed the story time to time never hearing the name or recognizing it.On feb 14th mom was watching gma and heard your voice and was shocked to learn it was Karen. We were devastated. We tried to reach you with no luck. i have given st. bernards our phone #. i realize its been a long while but family is still family.With our deepest sympathy to you,stacie and karens boys and the Diaz family . frances,willie,suzanne,harvey,marianne,steve,annmarie,richie,jean,phil
John Schott
February 27, 2002
To the Diaz boys;
Guys, my heart goes out to you. It doesn't seem fair that two so young should have to go through life without your mom and dad. Just know always that they loved you very much. Know also that even in far away Kansas, we think of you, we weep with you, and we will help as much as possible. You have some very good friends at Ladder 147 and we'll help them help you. God bless and protect you and make His face to shine upon you always.
Barbara Clerkin
February 5, 2002
To the Diaz Family-
When I read today of the death of Karen Diaz, my heart broke all over again. Please know that the thoughts of many are with you during this unthinkable tragedy. And remember to love each other.
Jane Ill
February 1, 2002
To the Diaz family,
Please know that you are not alone in your sorror at the loss of Matthew and now Karen. Your family remains in my thoughts and prayers everyday as I remember my brother, Capt. Fred Ill (FDNY), all his fallen brothers and all the other innocent victims of the Sept, 11th Tragedy.
Sincerely,
Jane Ill
Sally Cohen-Alameno
February 1, 2002
My husband worked for Cantor Fitzgerald and also died that day. I have a five year old and a two year old. I am so terribly sad that the Diaz boys will now grow up without either parent - it's beyond unfair. In today's NY Daily News there is an article about a fund for the boys, started by their mom's doctors, in answer to the previous question. My heart goes out to Mrs. Kneff and I wish her courage and strength.
Donna
February 1, 2002
I do not know this family, but was aware that Karen was ill. I was saddened to hear that she lost her battle, and now two little boys have lost both their parents at such a very young age.
I pray that God will bless those children. They certainly do not deserve to suffer anymore in their life.
They are in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless them all.
Anonymous
January 31, 2002
I pray that Karen and Matt are together now, as angels to watch over those two adorable boys. The boys are young, and they are innocent, and today, I have seen that they are loved and that they will be cared for.........
...........................
We watched as the Towers were hit... and we watched along as they came down....
And all the while we prayed to hear from Matt, but damn-it, we didn't, and we knew.
We listened to the phone ring every minute, and it was Karen. We silently stepped around Matt's brother- who had stormed into the office, I guess, not knowing what else to do. His brother just got on the phone. His brother worked with us too. ALL the guys gathered at the office that day.
We prayed, we hoped, and I personnally thought Karen would be around, she'd pull through, she had to-
But that's not how this "one" went. It's not a movie.
She died yesterday, and we couldn't do anything about that.
So G-d Bless her family, and G-d bless those boys.
May the spirit of Mathew and Karen; their Goodness, Warmth, Perserverance and Love, shine through, and give strength to the family, and to those beautiful children.
1/31/02
Anonymous,
A co-worker
Anonymous
January 31, 2002
My prayers are with the Diaz family, particularly the two boys who lost their father in the WTC tragedy, and now their Mother to cancer.
May God always be with them and may they grow up to honor the lives of their Mother and Father and cherish the memories they had with them.
If anyone knows how to make a charitable donation for the benefit of the boys, please post the information here.
Thank you.
anne miles
January 31, 2002
My Family and I send our best wishes to the boys of matthew and Karen Diaz. Your parents are looking over you in heaven. May God be with you two always . anne miles
Aurea de la Cruz
January 31, 2002
To the Diaz family, my heart and prayers go out to the family. I just read in the NY Times that Mrs. Diaz died of breast cancer,leaving behind her two sons without parents. My eyes are filled with tears of this sad news. I will pray for those two little boys always as I pray for my niece, who lost her mother, Lillian Caceres, that day too. I know the pain the family is feeling. I believe God will protect the Diaz's sons and they will always feel their parents' love in their heart. God Bless the family and Mrs. Kneff.
lisa giordano,ocera
January 29, 2002
Matthew Diaz was a great guy a great father and a great husband.I have alot of fond memories of the whole family and the love that they shared. May God bless this family and help them overcome the obstacles that are ahead of them. God bless Karen Diaz in her time of need she is a wonderful mother who has given her sons everything they could ever want.Dear God please give everyone else in the family the guidence and stregnth to raise those two wonderful boys.
Anonymous
January 11, 2002
DEAR LORD BLESS MATTHEW DIAZ AND MAY
HE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS
ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE AND SONS.
HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..MAY HE BE
WITH THE CARPENTER JESUS...GOD BLESS
AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01...AMEN...
Deb McFadden
January 9, 2002
To the Diaz family- our hearts and prayers are always with you.
Teresa Jahn
January 5, 2002
We are deeply sorry for your loss of Matthew. May his warmth, his life and love continue living on through those who have been touched by his life. May the sorrow in your hearts be lightened by warm memories of times shared together. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of Matthew.
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
jayne bell
January 1, 2002
Im an old neighbor of the family.My sincere condolences go out to the diaz family. . Matt as i recall was always a wonderful husband,father,and neighbor. He was liked by all along with his lovely wife karen.The bell family would like to wish karen and her boys all the very best in health wealth and happiness. With gods help there will be a brighter tomorrow for all of you! love and friendship always,the Bell Family
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