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Carrie Progen Obituary
As the A train gently rocked her, Carrie Progen would sit with a small pad in her lap and sketch hurried portraits of the commuters sitting and standing around her in silence. These fleeting moments were among life's truest, she told her boyfriend, Erik P. Sharkey, "the moments when New Yorkers were thinking the most."
In all, she filled four notebooks with sketches that seemed to reveal the thoughts of strangers. But they also reflected a young artist's passion for her adopted city, Mr. Sharkey said. "The one thing, if you could, is to say how much she loved New York."
Ms. Progen, 25, came from Ashburnham, Mass., where she celebrated her high school graduation by getting a Celtic-style tattoo. "The correct terminology for Carrie is free- spirited," recalled her mother, Kathleen.
Ms. Progen, who lived with Mr. Sharkey in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, was an administrative assistant at the Aon Corporation. But her passion was her art, including illustrations she had just completed for a children's book about "two parents trying to find their little girl who's hiding from them," he said.
An exhibit of her artwork ‹ including her subway sketches ‹ is to be held at 8 p.m. on Nov. 17 in Manhattan at Anderson's Martial Arts Academy, 35 West 31st Street.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Alan Towle
September 12, 2024
RIP!!
Steve M
September 11, 2024
Was just telling friends the other day about how much fun we had when Carrie & I would dish about the other students we had just sparred with at Jeet Kune Do (martial arts) class. So long ago, and also not.
Steve Mendes
September 11, 2021
Not forgotten
Barbara LeBlanc
September 11, 2021
I think of you every time on 9/11 to you and your family
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Judy Progen Skuya
September 10, 2021
I watched the special today, Women of 9/11, and thought of you. We never met. Our Progen family is quite large and I moved from Ashburnham to Florida in the early 60's due to my father's health. My father was your grandfather's younger brother; therefore your Dad and I are cousins. You are my son's age, born in the same year. I always think about your Dad and family during this time. I say a prayer hoping they remember a good time and their pain is lessened. You never get over losing a child, you simply learn to cope. I am so very sorry that you and thousands of others had their lives cut tragically cut short on Tuesday, September 11th. You all will be forever remembered in our hearts and prayers. Special hugs go out to your family and friends as they remember you tomorrow, on the 20th anniversary of their loss. Bless you.
Ann Lamanna
September 11, 2020
I did not know you but one Administrative Assistance to another, I sent flowers for your family from Cambridge in Cranbury NJ, a subsidiary of AON. I remember you every year Carrie and pray for your peace and famiiy's comfort.
S. J. Friscia III
January 5, 2020
In memory
With Honor & Respect.
Kathleen Progen
March 23, 2019
She was cute , smart and talented and fun.....Oh and also funny....Lots of people miss her....HAPPY BDAY CARRIE BETH PROGEN , I hope you are enjoying HEAVEN....miss you.....Your Aunt Kathy from Athol.
September 12, 2018
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2005879056110651&id=139375869427655
Holly Gallant
September 11, 2018
Thinking of you on this day & all the light you brought into those around you. I hope your forever surrounded by as many art supplies as the heavens above can bestow upon you. I know your family & friends must miss you so much!!!
Carole Anne Borror
September 11, 2018
Meeting Carrie for the first time today, reading her bio on Aon's memorial page. Is her A train sketchbook published or available for viewing?
Robert Tietze
September 12, 2017
Hello Dear soul Carrie. My wife reminds me that the night of 9/11/01 she saw your image standing at the top of the stairs on Leamy Street; you appeared to her as a child. My wife, Jeanne, told you your parents no longer lived here, however in Ashburnham and your image faded away. We'll never forget you and the countless other beautiful lives lost to evil forces on our planet. God Bless you and yours and I hope your spirit continues on in the mystery of our being.
Peace & Love
Robert & Jeanne Tietze
September 13, 2016
Carrie, we, Robert & Jeanne Tietze who still reside in your childhood home in Gardner, still honor your memory. Not only on this date but on many occasions. We were two kids who met in high school in NYC and ended up here on Leamy Street. We to loved the city, in fact I was born there at Lenox Hill Hospital and Jeanne and I both worked in Manhattan in our 20's. You have become our symbol and light to keep the faith and memory alive for all fallen angels of this horrific crime against humanity and we hope to meet you in your heavenly home one day. God Bless, Rest in Peace.
Bob & Jeanne
September 12, 2015
Dearest Carrie. We still hold your memory in your old home in Gardner MA. We always will
Rest in Peace
Robert & Jeanne Tietze
Julie Blake
September 11, 2015
Thinking of you today.
September 11, 2015
peace
September 14, 2014
It's been 13 years since that horrific day; feels like a lifetime ago and a moment ago as well. We'll NEVER forget! Robert & Jeanne keeping memories alive on Leamy Street. God Bless.............
Rosanna
September 11, 2014
Carrie my "Cukita" you are missed!Hugs and kisses to you in Heaven!
September 11, 2014
Still not forgetting
Bill Reed
September 11, 2013
Carrie, although I hadnt seen you since our college days, when I heard you were one of the victims, my heart broke. KNow that, while I was deployed, you were never far from my thoughts. You were a great friend, and I will never forget the many, MANY laughs we had in school.
Christine Haslock
September 11, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with your family today, my love goes out to each of them. A candle for you my dear, to honor you and what a beautiful person you were <3
September 11, 2013
The Tietze's still in the old house on Leamy Street, we'll NEVER forget. I visited memorial, touched your name, God Bless you always, Bob and Jeanne
Jessika Showers
September 11, 2013
You are greatly missed <3
Chris K
September 11, 2013
Just a lil message to say how much you are missed! You touched so many, in so many different ways! Still remember the entire tragedy didn't really hit Me until I seen the article in the paper that you were still missing. That's when it hit home. Thinking of you today, and many other days as well. . .
a photo of Jackson just for you , I bet you would love him as much as we do. miss you
kathleen progen
September 7, 2013
We prayed at Mass tonight for 9/11 victims.....Of course I thought of you and all the others. You are missed by many people. Will write more during this coming week Carrie. Your Aunt Kathy oh ps I am at a new church and the Priest is Father Joe, the one that did your Memorial Service . He is a nice guy.
steve mendes
September 5, 2013
Came back to look again. An old high school classmate just visited the site and reminded me all over again. It was sad but I'm glad to cruise down memory lane again and remember Carrie.
Jacqueline Richard
September 16, 2012
Carrie - i love you - always have - always will... you were the best friend I ever had. I'll see you again someday, my dear friend.
September 15, 2012
Every year when 9/11 comes around I pray for you and your family and cry alot miss you and you were the best girl
September 14, 2012
I still keep coming back here every year in Carrie's memory. Can't help it.
Biodun Iginla
September 13, 2012
Hi Carrie...miss you always...keen thoughts...may you rest in peace...I LOVE YOU!!!!
Christie Richard
September 12, 2012
Cathie and Family,
I think of you every year at this time....and I will never forget....
Janet
September 11, 2012
To the family and friends of Carrie Progen; You don't know me but I am praying for you, especially today. Last year, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, our community held a memorial service. The service ended with the invitation to pull a rose off of the huge American flag that hung as a backdrop, and was made up of red, white and blue fabric roses. Attached to each rose was the name of a victim of 9/11. I pulled Carrie's rose and have prayed for you since last year, specifically on the 11th day of each month. I am especially thinking of you today.
September 11, 2012
still thinking of Carrie
Denise Delph
September 11, 2012
Carrie, today I thought about you and the times we share when working together. I enjoyed when you would share your art with me I was so impress and just knew you would go far.I am remembering your warm spirit and kind heart today and will never forget you. It was a pleasure to meet and know you. Denise
September 10, 2012
Carrie, we miss you. You will never be forgotten. Found a photo of you me and judgie the other day, you were such a beautiful person. Only good memories of you. Love, becca (progen) reed
Biodun
November 26, 2011
Carrie....miss you...2009 was the first time i could talk 'bout you without crying..have moved on...sadly....
Steve Mendes
November 25, 2011
by chance got to walk through the 9-11 memorial today and was both so happy & so sad to run my hands over carrie's name in the footprint around the south tower. Panel S-59 if you make it down.
kathy progen
September 17, 2011
still think of you all the time rip niece carrie we miss you
September 15, 2011
Hey Carrie! Robert and Jeanne Tietze here is at 135 Leamy St where you once lived. I have my den in your former bedroom. Still have green rug that you once played on. Think of you always; and went to NYC on 9/11 to pay my respects. I know you are now safe.
Peace and Love !
D. C.
September 12, 2011
Hi Carrie, I sat next to you in the WTC on the 100th floor (at AON Risk) Please rest in peace. I pray for you and your family each year. Sincerely,
Biodun Iginla
September 12, 2011
hi Carrie...it's now been 10 years...Rest in peace...Biodun
Steve Mendes
September 12, 2011
Still thinking of Carrie.
Lori Laplante
September 12, 2011
I barely knew Carrie from the band at Oakmont. She was a few years younger than me and played the clarinet while I play flute. I do however remember her. When the towers fell I felt like most Americans, sad but somewhat removed from it. When I found I actually knew someone who perrished that day it became so very real to me. Although I barely knew her, I will never forget her. I am truly sorry for your loss! If her loss hurts me this deeply I can only imagine your pain. I can't take the pain away but I can remember... and so I will.
Cathy Cunningham
September 11, 2011
Ashburnham remembers you and your family today. May this small town see your life as a reminder of all we have to be grateful for everyday. God bless.
Judi
September 11, 2011
Carrie... still missing you! I can hear you telling me about your art showing - just like it was yesterday...
Amy
September 11, 2011
Just heard your name read aloud and felt compelled to learn more about you. May you rest in peace.
Brendan §
September 10, 2011
I can hardly write this.
Amy Carrier
September 10, 2011
I'm sending my prayers to Carrie and her family from our family. My sister and I grew up with Carrie and her brother Matt. Thier father grew up with our father. It's still surreal that Carrie lost her life in such a tragic and senseless way. We pray for her and her family. We remember her sacrifice and her brothers' bravery in serving our country in the military.
kathleen progen
March 26, 2011
Happy Belated 35th Bday Carrie Miss You Aunt Kathy from Athol
Robert Tietze
September 13, 2010
Carrie we still think of you and the countless others who paid the ultimate price nine years ago. We still live in the old house on Leamy St in Gardner and
still pray for you.
September 12, 2010
I think of Carrie and her family every year on 9/11. I was working at Aon when this happened. I was in the call center and vividly remember talking to Carrie's future mother-in-law.
Life changed for a lot of people that day. I hope that Carrie's family finds comfort in knowing that people still care, and probably always will.
Jacqueline Richard
September 11, 2010
Nine years ago yesterday I could have called you. Nine years ago yesterday I could have hugged you. Nine years ago yesterday, you were still here. You were making people smile and laugh. You were still here. You were creating and sharing. You were inspiring and helping. You were so good to sooooo many. I miss you everyday. and especially today. I hate that nine years ago yesterday, i did not call you or hug you or see you. I miss you so much it hurts...just like everyone else whose lives you've touched. You still amaze and inspire. The love that you have shared with all the people you shared it with has traveled time and distance spreading around the world. You will never be forgotten. You will always be so deeply treasured in our hearts. We love you. We miss you. So very much.
Jacquie (Jones) Richard
April 8, 2010
I love you and miss you everyday always and forever.
Biodun Iginla
September 20, 2009
Of course I miss Carrie deeply....it was only last year's anniversary that I was able to speak of her untimely death without crying.
Carrie: May your soul continue to rest in peace...
Kathleen Progen
September 18, 2009
I think about you a lot Carrie as does every family member I know your safe in heaven
Kathy
September 13, 2009
Carrie we still miss you and always I light my candle for you. I know your having a ball in heaven lol aunt kathy
Steve Mendes
September 13, 2009
Still thinking of her, every 9/11 - and every once in awhile on other dates, too.
Penny Mudd
September 12, 2009
It's been very moving to read these tributes and to see that I am not alone in thinking of Carrie Progen on Sept. 11th.
What brings me to this page? We were distant relatives, but never met. Her great grandmother (Hattie)+ my grandmother (Katherine) were "Carey girls" - modest and fun-loving sisters born around 1900 whose lives were greatly impacted by WWI. My Mom (nee Margaret Landers),deceased in 2003,was Carrie's grandfather Hebert's cousin. Carrie was one of the Gen X family members, whereas I am a baby boomer. The family is very big and somewhat fragmented, but the passing of certain much beloved members (such as Carrie and "Uncle Franklin") has had the effect of pulling formerly distant family members back into the fold.
I found out about Carrie because of the tragic ending of her life. I can relate to her life up until that day. I also left a small backwoods town in Central Mass for college, and went to the Big Apple looking to start a career. My time in NYC spanned 1977-1983 and the worst thing that happened to me was being robbed at gunpoint. On Sept. 11th, 2001 I was on Cape Cod. I came back from an early morning walk on the beach to watch the horror with a roomful of strangers on a full screen TV at the local laundromat. I had no idea a distant relative was to perish that morning.
Here I sit today, middle-aged and writing a few words on a foggy gray evening on the Central Coast of California, where I settled in 1985. The recession + subsequent career loss has had a very destabilizing effect on my life, but I seem to have come back from the brink. Carrie's loss of her one life reminds me to count my blessings. And to take pride and comfort in the generations of good people (and strong women) in our family who have faced tremendous difficulties over the years, the loss of a child too soon being one.
Although I have not before, I will light a candle for her, as I do for my Mom and Grandmother.
Robert Tietze
September 12, 2009
Carrie I never really knew you. We bought the house you lived in on Leamy Street in Gardner back in 1985. You and your brother played with my son, Carl, as the parents disscussed real estate. That fateful date that you were taken to heaven, my wife, Jeanne, saw you roaming our home, as a spirit, as a child, the age you were back in 85' and she told you that your parents were then living in Ashburnham and you disappeared. I watched the trade center be built when I went to high school back in the 70's and spent much time in the towers after that. I used to take my son from Leamy St to the towers back in the day. I think of you often, have gotten pictures of you at a birthday party from April next door.
God rest your soul. My den is in your former bedroom, still have same green shag rug on the floor. You'll always have a special place in my heart.
Godspeed.
Heidi Auvinen Collins
September 11, 2009
I think of Carrie often throughout the year, not just on September 11th. Her absence has left such an impression on me. Even though it is eight years later and I didn't really know her, the loss is just so great. Even a girl like me from a small sleepy town like Ashburnham, thick in the woods and away from the business of the world, many miles away from where the towers fell, is effected. My most heartfelt condolences are with her family and friends that knew her. Please know that the loss is felt every day, even from a stranger.Heidi Auvinen Collins
September 11, 2009
I always post a note here every 9/11. I was working at Aon when Carrie's future mother-in-law called to find out if we'd heard from her at all.
I think of Carrie's family every 9/11 and hope that you find comfort in knowing that people still care.
S G
January 30, 2009
Although I never had a chance to know Carrie well, her spirit, refusal to conform, and advice was valued and spoken of often within my circle of acquaintances and friends. I hope she can still accomplish all she was capable of on another plane of existence. Matt & family, my heart goes out to you. --Shane
Amy
January 16, 2009
Carrie, I was just thinking about you and what an awesome person you were. I only knew you through high school, but I always thought you were a cool girl :) God Bless.
Kathleen Progen
December 15, 2008
Have a great Holiday in Heaven Carrie......we miss you still I know your looking down on us all.....we love you aunt kathy
Debbie .
September 11, 2008
our thoughts and prayers are with you on this very sad 7th anniversary of the worlds loss of a beautiful young soul... an Ashburnham neighbor. wishing you peace
Steve Mendes
September 11, 2008
What Anson said. (Ditto for me.)
Anson Davis
September 11, 2008
Carrie and I practiced martial arts at the same school in NYC. We worked together often and talked after class some days. I was always impressed with her spirit and geat sense of humor. She was a pleasure to know.
September 11, 2008
I didn't know Carrie, but I think of her every 9/11 anniversary. I was working at the Call Center that Aon had set up in Chicago. I still remember the phone call I took from her boyfriend's mother that day.
I continue to think about Carrie's family and pray that you are able to find some peace.
Kathleen Progen
September 10, 2008
Its almost 9/ll again 7 years ago already. too long to be without such a nice girl. Have candles lit for you again Carrie. Your Aunt, Cousins, Uncle Ed.
Biodun Iginla
April 20, 2008
I knew Carrie. She was simply too young to die...
photos of kids when they were little
Kathleen Progen
January 12, 2008
photo of Sarah and Carrie Progen in maybe l982 or so submitted by Aunt Kathy in Athol
Sarah and Carrie Progen (cousins)
Kathy Progen
January 12, 2008
Howdy Carrie here I am again your Aunt Kathy found this photo of you and Sarah at Babci and Gagi's house maybe you were 61/2 and Sarah was 3.....you both were so so cute......hope you like it
Kathy
January 3, 2008
Hi Carrie today is the day your Grandad Gagi passed away Wow cannot believe it has been since 2000....I am glad that he and Babci did not have to witness what happened on 9/ll It was all to sad.....GOD BLESS
Rosanna
September 24, 2007
Carrie a.k.a Cukita, I have never written before but I have thought of her always. I was a former employee of AON, Cambridge Galaher and fortunate to have worked with Carrie. I left the company about a month and a half before 911. We kept in contact after that and I will never forget my last lunch with her which was about a week before 911. That hour felt like three hours. We spoke about our future goals and how happy she was that I was pregnant with my son. She told me that I better invite her to my baby shower and i laughed and said of course my cukita has to be there. I remember our train rides home after work and how much she loved her boyfriend and her family and how she was going to Vegas to marry her sharky. I pray for her mother, father extended family, friends and her sharky every chance i get. I miss her and I know that she is smiling down on us. Cukita, was a nickname i gave her because she wanted me to teach her spanish and the radio kept playing this silly song that she would laugh at because she didnt understand it but it sounded sooo funny to her so I named her the title of the song. Carrie, i miss youuuuuu
Roe Ruiz
September 12, 2007
Hi Carrie,
Always thinking of you on this date. Went by the water and cast a floating candle in your memory. Rest with the angels. God bless.
Love, Roe
Rebecca Clifton
September 11, 2007
I did not know Carrie, but I wear a silver bracelet that bears her name. I always wanted to know more about her, and today (9/11/07) I finally took the time to do that. I was living in Albuquerque, NM when the attacks occurred, and shortly thereafter, my church --Calvary Chapel--was selling what they call "Mercy B.A.N.D.'s". The proceeds have all gone to one of the victims funds. They are silver wrist bands engraved with the name of a 9/11 victim. The letters "B A N D " stand for "Bearing Anothers Name Daily", and are meant to be a reminder to pray for the family of the victim. So, I have worn this for nearly 6 yrs and it reminds me to pray often. I am glad to see Carrie's picture, and to read what I can about her. I am grateful for the opportunity to pray for her family & loved ones. God Bless you all. WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Steve Mendes
September 10, 2007
Won't ever forget Carrie - trained martial arts with her in NYC that year - talking on the bench, before or after class, and sometimes practicing together. She was too young.
September 10, 2007
As I wrote last year, too, I didn't know Carrie, but I think of her every 9/11 anniversary. I was working at Aon in Glenview, IL and remember the phone call I took from her boyfriend's mother.
Kim Tremble
May 3, 2007
I knew Carrie in 1984 when she lived on Leamy St. in Gardner, she was a wonderful person and even then an extraordinary artist. We always had fun and even though I had not seen her in many years at the time of her death I was deeply saddened, my condolences to her family and those who knew her.
kristine
April 23, 2007
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.
Mark Bedard
February 22, 2007
I was fortunate enough to have several classes with Carrie in high school, and due to her outgoing personality we quickly became friends. She always brightened up the days with a smile and her quick wit. Although we lost touch after high school, I'll always carry those memories with me.
P Tabbernor
February 5, 2007
In memory....
Eddie Osorio
September 14, 2006
I have logged onto this site every year ever since the WTC tragedy but I have yet to sign the guest book, I guess I just could never find the right words to express my feelings on it. My heart goes out to the Progen family. I knew Carrie pretty well in the early 90's and kept in touch with Carrie when she made the move to Brooklyn. She always went out of her way to keep in touch when she was in town. She made an impact on everyone she met. Carrie you were there for me one particular night when I needed someone most and no one else was around. You helped me through a difficult time and I will never forget it. I can remember like it was yesterday,hanging out with you, Wes, Chad Stevenson, Lee, Chad Cote, and the rest of our crew at the time. I guess heaven was missing an angel and wouldn't settle for anyone but the best. You will always be remeberd by me. I'll see you when I get there.
Holly Gallant
September 11, 2006
Dear Carrie, just wanted to say that as I'm sure many others are, I was thinking about you today & decided to put an entry in as I haven't done so since I think the first yr passed. I got to see your parents last year at Sarahs wedding, & it was nice to see them having a good time, I'm sure that you were there too, looking down & blessing Sarahs day. I had a "moment" with your mom at Sarahs shower & I think of her often too. You are truly truly missed by many. I believe your in heaven wrapped up in gods loving arms & sleeping with the angels. I'd like to offer my prayers too all your family, friends & loved ones on this 5 yr anniversary. I hope tosee your artwork at some point in the future, it sounds like your work was brilliant. Love, Holly
Ryan Amidon
September 11, 2006
I remember Carrie from Elm St. School. I went to GHS so I didnt know her for long, but I remember her being always happy and hanging from the jungle gym with me. She drew me a picture of Garfield once, which I kept for a long time.
I don't really like reliving this day, but I couldn't let the day go by without helping remember her.
Thanks.
Rosemarie Ruiz
September 11, 2006
Dear Carrie,
Today is 5 years, and I still can't believe it. I think of you often and you are always smiling and laughing. That's how I will always remember you. Rest in peace with the angels.
Love,
Roe
September 11, 2006
I was working in the call center at Aon Corp. in Glenview, IL on 9/11/01. I didn't know Carrie, but I think of her every 9/11 because I remember the call I took from her boyfriend's mother that day. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends today.
Keith Bedard
September 10, 2006
Carrie and I graduated from Oakmont Regional High School in Ashburnham, MA. We were not in the same grade, but shortly after the high school years, we had mutual friends, and would socialize in the same group of friends at parties and events. I will always remember her as one of the consistantly happiest people that I have ever met. She was born into the world an optimist in every regard, and made a mark on every person that ever met her.
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