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JACK KLEEHAAS FDNY RET
April 13, 2025
4-6-25....Another Birthday Party in Heaven for you Mike...Gone But Not Forgotten. Jack Kleehaas FDNY RET.
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2022
I will never forget.
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2022
I will never forget.
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2021
I can't believe it's been twenty years. Twenty years ago today. It still haunts me.
God bless you for your ultimate sacrifice. You died saving others.
"All those moments, lost in time; like tears in rain."
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Jack Kleehaas
September 6, 2021
Mike.....you may be gone physically from this Earth however you are certainly NOT FORGOTTEN BROTHER.....Jack Kleehaas .
Rose Coleman
September 5, 2021
RIP Mike. I remember
Cindy Roe
September 4, 2021
Remembering Michael on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....
Jack Kleehaas
September 2, 2020
MIKE.... another year has passed but your memory still shines bright....some glitches along the way with the Benefit & the latest virus complications through out the world but you are in the forefront of our thoughts not only around 9-11 but through out the year..... CONTINUED Rest In Peace BROTHER.
Del Newberry
September 1, 2020
That horrible day when so many lives were senselessly lost will be forever etched in our memories. We came together as a country and we honored the brave men and women who were first responders and raced TOWARD the tragedy to selflessly help others. I am pausing today to say a prayer for Michael's family. May you find an extra sense of peace and purpose today as I pray for God to bless you in a mighty way.
Teddy LOPEZ
September 11, 2019
I was honored to climb the stairs and ring the bell today, wearing your badge, at the 9/11 Challenge in Phoenix, Arizona. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Rest In Peace
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2019
Praying for your family Michael.
Jack Kleehaas
August 30, 2019
CONTINUED REST IN PEACE MIKE....GONE BUT CERTAINLY NOT FORGOTTEN....JACK KLEEHAAS FDNY RET.
August 29, 2019
Thanks for bravely serving the FDNY that Tuesday morning in 2001. You should be proud of living your childhood dream..
RIP
Terri Absher
September 14, 2015
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
John Szczech
October 28, 2014
ALWAYS REMEMBER , NEVER FORGET !!!!!
Brendan
May 27, 2014
Hi my name is Brendan and I am an eighth grade student at Shiloh middle school in Hampstead, Maryland. My school is going on a trip to New York this Friday and each of the kids going got a firefighter that lost their life during 9-11 o research and I received Michael Cawley. I was wondering if you had any pictures I could use to create a memorial for the parents of Michael Cawley. If you have any pictures please email me at [email protected]
G Bryan
January 23, 2014
Thank you for lending me your strength and courage today.
Jack Kleehaas
September 13, 2013
9-11-13....12 Years later you are not forgotten..A very hot day at St Mary's...the new BROTHERS were introduced to our AnnualRememberance...Jack Kleehaas.
Teresa Gillian
September 11, 2013
To the family of Michael Cawley. My name is Teresa Gillian of Denver, Colorado. I am a mother of two small children and wife. Today was special for my family as I was given a picture of you to walk in honor of your life today, 12 years later. God bless your family Michael. From the Gillian Family of Sitka, Alaska and the Ruybal Family of Durango Colorado and everyone from todays memorial walk held at the Red Rocks Amphitheater, thank you sir.
February 22, 2013
To The Family,
Although it's been over eleven years now, we will never forget the fallen heroes who gave their lives in trying to save others during that horrific day of 9/11. God bless you.
Sincerely,
Mr. Terry of NC
September 12, 2012
Sunday 9-9-12 after the 1130 Mass there was a nice Flagpole Dedication by the Knights Of Columbus in front of St Marys Nativity Church on 45 Ave & Parsons Boulevard Your Family & your FDNY Brothers were in attendance.....also on 9-11-12 you were once again remembered by Your Family & your FDNY Brothers.....we will NEVER FORGET.....your Friend Jack Kleehaas.
Jenny
September 11, 2012
Every year my highschool hands out bracelets of those lost it the tragic events of 9/11 and I always take it upon myself to research the life of whomever I was assigned. This year I was given the privledge to have Michael Joseph Cawley. You really were a gift to this earth and I know that you are enjoying your reward in heaven. My prayers are with you and your family. Lost but never forgotten.
God bless.
Mike fishing
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2012
11 years ago today. Praying for your family.
Rose
September 10, 2012
I remember you Mike
Tina Radosta
September 8, 2012
Good Afternoon!
I had the privilege this morning to run the Tunnel to Towers 5K in Wake Forest, NC in memory of Firefighter Michael Cawley. It was extremely humbling to wear a name tag with his name, ladder and photo on it. I am still proudly wearing it even though I finished the race 6 hours ago.
I wanted to learn more about the man I was running for so I googled him. I cannot express, in words, how proud it made me to learn more about Michael. It gave me chills reading his story.
I want his family to know how thankful I am for the dedicated people, past and present, like Michael in this great country of ours. And to tell them that Michael is not forgotten and will always be remembered for his heroics that day and all the days before his last call for duty. A call he didn't have to go on but did anyway because that was the kind of man he was. A hero!
Remembering and honoring all our heroes,
Tina
September 27, 2011
Hello, my name is Cassidy Smith. I am a student at Armuchee Middle School in Rome G.A. I will be planting a flower in memory of Michael on Thursday september 29, 2011 to thank him for the service and sacrifice he did for our country.
Mike
September 12, 2011
May God Bless you Michael, your 342 brothers, and all who were lost.
Jon Cawley
September 11, 2011
Hard to believe it was ten years ago today.
Jack Kleehaas
August 23, 2011
Mike it is coming up on 10years...gone but NOT forgotten...Brendan is carrying on in your footsteps...not a day goes by that you & all the others are not thought of...your spirit lives on...Jack Kleehaas FDNY '68 to '09.
June 2, 2011
I worked with Mike at Kemper and I wll always remember his mischievous personality. I was blessed to know him.
Rose Coleman
May 1, 2011
god bless you sweetheart
Alex
April 7, 2011
I am researching Michael Cawley for a school project. We are going to visit the World Trade Center in May. From reading all of the comments made, Michael seems to me like a great heroic person. If anyone could give more information on him, that would be great. I would really like to get to know him for who he was.
Thanks
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2009
Our family is praying for your family, and for this great country that you so unselfishly gave your life for. Never forget.
Susie Kilpatrick
September 8, 2009
We'll never forget you and all who perished that day. God's blessings to your family.
Doug Abraham
December 28, 2008
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Linda M
October 26, 2008
God Bless Michael J. Cawley and his 342 brothers....you will NEVER be forgotten. Till we all meet in Heaven.....
Deya
September 17, 2008
I never had the honor of knowing you Michael, but I had the honor of meeting your younger brother Brendan at Firehouse World in 2007. I agree with your brother in that you were watching over him that Sunday in 2005. I want you to know that I did my CrossFit workout "343" in your honor this morning. May you Rest in Peace and continue to watch over your brother.
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2008
Still praying for the family and friends of Michael.
http://www.ffmichaeljcawley.org/bio.html
Bill Burns
September 11, 2007
I friend to everyone in the dorms of Riggs and Oneida Hall. He brang out the best in everyone around him. He was someone that would be there for you whenever you needed it. A firefighter was who he was, and I was not surprised to hear about how he laid down his life for others in need.
God Bless You,
Bill "CowBoy"
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2007
Although I share the same last name and come from a long line of firefighters, I did not know Michael. I have learned that his life exemplified the spirit of self sacrifice and service that his fellow firefighters take into the field every day.
I continue to pray for comfort for you, the friends and family of Michael, for the safety of his fellow firefighters, and I also pray that 9/11 never happens again to our blessed country.
September 6, 2007
Thinking of you Michael
God Bless you!!
Nancy Nee
Joe Cawley
August 21, 2007
You will never be forgotten
Michael Cawley
July 12, 2007
My brother James W. Cawley is on legacy .com and has been honored for giving his life serving in Iraq and for serving as a Police officer. I found Michael's tribute while doing a search for my brother and was struck by the connection between two Cawleys, one who served and died protecting citizens as a fireman, and one who watched in horror at those events that day and responded to the call over those horrific events. My brother had a choice to go and 9/11 and the care of his own soldiers was the determining factor in his decision to leave his own wife and children behind for the wives and children of others.
I've read through the tributes by others who knew Mike and those who have simply given their respects. The tributes of those who knew him paint a portrait of not just a fireman working to serve his fellow citizens but as a good and decent human being. These were the same traits my brother carried. This part may not make sense to many but I'm astounded at the number of those who share the same last name from across the world that have found their way here and to my brother's site.and have felt compelled to leave a tribute over a common name. It tells me volumes.
I've always felt proud of my name, my heritage and it seems to be common thread with others who also share it. I've learned that Cawleys have a proud heritage. My father served in 3 wars, his brother also served in battle. Others with the name have given their lives and service to others. The Cawleys I know have a sense and a way of carrying themselves that seems to have a standard, a bit of pride and honor.
I've taught my children to have pride in their name, to respect it and those who have carried it well before them. Michael is now part of that legacy and they know of his sacrifice and the story given here. I've told them to live with the same kind of honor and pass the same on to their children. He will be part of their strength and their children that follow.
I'm even prouder to share the same first name as Michael. I can never equal his heroism and sacrifice nor that of my brother, but I will remember him and do my best to lend honor to the name of this genuine American hero. To the family that has loved and lost, I give you my deepest respect, my sincere caring, and share in the type of grief that bring so much pain but also so much pride. Mike's name is etched in my memory now, his sacrifice will be a constant reminder to me, to my children. You must be as proud of him as I am of my brother. I hope I can learn someday why I have always had such pride over something as simple as a name even before the tragedies of loss to both our families occured. This name seems to mean so much to many who carry it. I would like to know someday why it is embedded so strongly in me and in others, and maybe learn a bit more about our heritage and of those before us that left us with such a powerful sense of honor in a name. God bless the family of Mike, thanks to him and you for making an impact in the lives of so many. If there is a heaven, surely Mike and my brother Jim have met by now.
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.
Evelyn B
September 14, 2006
Thank you Michael for you bravery and making the ultimate sacrifice. I am honored to tel me children the stories of all the brave police officers and firemen who went into those buildings on 09/11 to save others. It makes me proud to be an American. God bless you Michael and your surviving family anf friends. You will never be forgotten!
Kate Broderick
September 11, 2006
Mike, I will never forget our last conversation... We were talking about you being a firefighter in NYC and I said "You're crazy! Aren't you scared with all those high rise buildings?!" I expected a macho response like it's no big deal...yet you replied "Of course I'm scared!" And yet you went in to those buildings anyway...I cannot think of a better definition of courage and I am honored to have known you. You are a true hero and I will never forget you! Rest in Peace. KT
Jonathan Cawley
September 11, 2006
Thank you Michael.
God Bless and comfort the Cawley family. We are praying for you.
P Tabbernor
September 8, 2006
In memory....
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
Michael Iezzi
January 26, 2005
Michael and Brendan,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
January 26, 2005
Watch over your brother. I know you have already watched over him but keep an eye on him. Rest in peace.
Thomas P. Cawley
January 26, 2004
No matter how many years pass we will never forget the ultimate sacrifice paid by you.
Nicholas Gagliardo
September 11, 2003
"It's not where you are it's who you are with" was a quote i have always followed, and when Mike was around there was nothing but good times. I thank him and all of the Cawleys for being such good friends over the years.
Louis Sarmiento
September 11, 2003
Michael- I never got to meet you personally but we always wave hello when we see each other when entering our houses. Sorry I didn't make the time to be a friend- you seem such a nice guy- but you know, I was always fixing (I still am) my house since me & my family moved in 6 years before you were called to the gates of heaven. You have a great family- parents & siblings- I will do anything to help & protect them as you did for us.
God bless your soul and protect us from above. You're in our prayers for ever.
Your Neighbors
The Sarmientos
Becki Baldinger
November 26, 2002
To the Cawley Family,
I received my 9.11 bracelet today with Michael's name on it. I will wear it with pride and join in on the daily prayers for your family.
My husband is a firefighter along with all my closest friends. I'm very blessed with all of these people in my life, I honestly belive that I'm living with angels. I know that each time the pager goes off, I'm saying a prayer for their safety. Michael gave his life to save others, he will always be honored. He will forever be in my thoughts.
God Belss your family and all of the firefighters that are the real angels on this earth.
Allison Blechman
October 16, 2002
I had the pleasure of meeting Michael at SUNY Oswego. Our friendship began when he joined the Rugby team and continued beyond Oswego. I grew up and lived in Hampton Bays until recently and my impromptu run-ins with Mike always led to great times full of laughter and hijinks. If I wasn’t bumping into him in the Hamptons, I somehow always managed to bump into him in NYC – usually at what used to be Casey’s. Every time I saw him, it was as if we had just spoken with one another the day before. We shared a lot of great times and I will cherish them always. Although it is a sad irony that the last time we spoke was when Mike had just gotten into the Fire Academy, I will never forget how proud and excited he was. His enthusiasm was contagious and I was so happy that he was fulfilling a dream.
One of my favorite memories of Mike is of a trip to Panama City, FL for Spring Break. I hurt my back and was having a difficult time walking so I opted out of the day’s festivities and ended up spending the day in the room while my friends were out having a great time. Just when I thought I was in for a lonely and boring day, in came Mike – ready to save the day with beer, cards and a smile. He opted to stay at the hotel to keep me company knowing that I couldn’t move.
That was the type of person he was and that is the Mike I will always remember – kind, considerate and a great friend who left an indelible mark on my life. Even now – I can’t help but smile through the tears when I think of him for he was a truly special person and I am so thankful that I can call him a friend. My deepest sympathies go out to the Cawley family and all of Michael's friends.
God bless you Mike, you will be missed for a lifetime and beyond
Melanie A. Wrzesinski
October 12, 2002
Dear Michael Cawley,
Thank you for being you. You have touched the lives of so many people, and your spirit and memory will live forever. I didn't know you, but I received my 9/11 commemorative bracelet today and it had your name on it. Today was also FDNY Memorial Day, and I know you were there in spirit. You gave the ultimate sacrifice, and for that, we will be forever thankful and grateful. God Bless You.
Anderson Angad
September 12, 2002
My condolences goes out to The Cawley Family.
I have never met Michael but I had the privilege to work with his brother Brendan; Brendan you will be a great Firefighter.
Your family will always be in my prayers.
We will never forget Michael Joseph Cawley for the heroism that he displayed on that horrific day.
Dawn Koffler
September 11, 2002
On this one year anniversary of a day in history that changed all our lives, I truly never forgot your impact and friendship prior to that day, and never will forevermore. My children are told of your caring support and bravery. When I come to that place where you are, don't forget to be there for me, because I'll need you !! Thanks for being such a great friend during those years that our paths crossed. God's very richest blessings to you and to your family, for solace, for peace, for faith.
Martha Garza
September 9, 2002
The reason I am writing in the guest book is because my school gave out braclets with names on them of the people who died on September 11th, my braclet had the name Michael Joseph Cawley. I am going to pray for him for the next few days until September 19th, and have a day of fasting for him and the other victims on september 12th. I will probably pray for him the rest of my life. I just want to say that if it weren't for brave people like him, our world would be in pretty bad shape. God Bless
Joseph Cawley
July 2, 2002
I never knew Michael Joseph Cawley and i never met him, the reason i am writing this is that i was saddened to see the name Cawley on the lists, but also hugely proud at the same time, proud that it was up there for heroic and honourable reasons.
God bless you and hold you tight Michael Joseph Cawley
From Joseph Cawley and all the Cawley's in Glasgow Scotland.
Tracey Horyczun
May 6, 2002
I met Michael in college at Oswego State although we did not become close until we ran into each other once again at the Drift Inn in the Hamptons. Michael quickly became very near and dear to my heart and I think about him always. We spent some time together and the one thing I always knew is that Michael was meant to be a NY City Fireman. He was the perfect role model of what I envisioned it to be. I am so proud to have known him and have him touch my life in so many ways. I will miss him always.
Tracey Horyczun
Angie Campbell
April 22, 2002
**********God Bless You**********
Genette and Victor Annaloro
April 10, 2002
When we moved to our house in 1976 right across the street from the Cawley family, Michael was only 6 years old. Over the years we saw Michael grow up to be a wonderful young man any parent would be proud to call their son. He was cheerful, respectful and always took the time to say hello and chat with us whenever we encountered him. We were heartbroken to hear of Michael's passing and will always remember him. We know there's a special place for people like Michael in heaven.
Julie Cawley Barezinsky
April 1, 2002
Deepest sympathies to the family of Michael Cawley from three granddaughters of Michael John Cawley, born in County Sligo circa 1870.
danny cawley
April 1, 2002
with our deepest sympathy,to the cawley family,from the cawley's of the i.o.m.u.k.
Erica DiRubbio
March 24, 2002
To the family of Michael Cawley I send my deepest sympathies for their great loss. I had the pleasure of knowing Michael for a short time, but his impression on me will last forever. He was and forever will be a great man. A hero. May he rest in peace forever, and be in everyone's thoughts forever. You are missed.
Katie O'Sullivan
March 19, 2002
From the entire O'Sullivan family, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts and know that you are safe in heaven. God Bless you.
Michelene Krueger
March 18, 2002
Dear Family and loved ones of Michael Cawley,
I received my bracelet in the mail today with Fire fighter Cawley's name engraved. My sympathies are extended to all of his family and loved ones. Please know that the whole country continues to grieve for the loss of such wonderful people as Michael.I will wear his bracelet and keep him in my prayers forevermore. Sincerely, Michelene Krueger
christy moore
March 14, 2002
God Bless you, Mike and May you rest in peace
Melissa Cook
February 26, 2002
To Michael's family and friends,
I received a bracelet with Michael's name and his fire company engraved on it. I am so sorry for all the pain that you have gone through! I could only imagine what a great man he was! Always keep the best memories close to your heart! I'm so sorry, again!
P.S. Michael, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your bravery and dedication! You are an inspiration to me to do what I love in life!
Bethann Kinney
February 14, 2002
About 8 years ago, at the wedding of one of my childhood friends, I had the fortunate experience of being partnered with Mike. From the minute we met, we laughed. The pleasure of his company made an already wonderful day even brighter. Although I knew Mike only briefly, I've thought of him often over the years. There was definitely something special about him. I will never forget his smile or how knowing him touched my life. His family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Beth Keating
February 4, 2002
I met Mike about 8 years ago during a St. Patrick's Day parade in Bay Ridge. He had the type of smile that just made you want to talk to him! The one thing I will always remember is that he refused to call me Mary Beth. He said my name was Mary and it was a pretty Irish name, and that wass what he was going to call me! When I heard that Mike was there on 9/11 I immediately thought of that. he will be missed and always remembered. My thoughts go out to the Cawley family.
February 3, 2002
everything about mike was a "HOMERUN"
We will miss you and will always rebember how much a part of our family you were.
We are so proud of you and know that you will be be with us on St. Patrick's day!
Thanks for the memories and for sharing so many cold ones with us!
Love and God Bless
The Hickey Family!
Tracey Wulder (Cook)
January 20, 2002
I had the pleasure of being a girlfriend of Michael Cawley. I just wanted his family to know how sorry I am for their loss. Michael was more than a great guy. He would do the world for anyone he came into contact with. He was a great fireman and he just loved his job. I still have one of his FDNY football T-shirts that he gave me. I will always treasure it and wear it with pride.
Michael you will always be in my thoughts and prayers forever & ever. You will be truly missed by me.
All my love,
Tracey Cook-Wulder, originally from Levittown, NY
Teresa Jahn
January 6, 2002
We thank Michael for dedicating his life to helping, protecting, and saving others as a firefighter. Such a profession comes with a brave, caring and warm heart. May his courage, life and love continue living in those who love him and in those who have been touched by his life. May you always feel the warmth of his love radiate into your heart. May the sorrow you feel today be lightened by warm memories of times together. Brendan, we wish you good luck in your testing to become a firefighter. We are deeply sorry for our nation's great loss of Michael. Our hearts cry with you in our loss of America's hero.
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
A Friend
December 24, 2001
Dear Michael,
Rest In Peace, dear Michael. On September 11, you entered Heaven and now you are an Angel.
On this Christmas Eve, I want you and your family and friends to know you will forever remain in my thoughts and prayers from this holiday to the next.
I am so sorry for the loss your loved ones struggle with!
God Bless you, Michael.
December 18, 2001
MAY GOD IN HEAVEN BLESS YOU MICHAEL
JOSEPH CAWLEY AND MAY YOU REST IN
PEACE.GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND
FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE
NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
n/a n/a
November 26, 2001
Proud to wear your name on my FDNY cap.Rest in peace!
CAROL GLOVER
November 13, 2001
I received a Memory Band as a gift. My band has Michael's name on it. I say prayers everyday for Michael and his family.
Chris Dymes
November 7, 2001
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Michael. I am very close with John. Michael has a lot of people helping his family with prayer and shoulder to lean on or a face to talk to. God Bless him and the work he did.
Maureen Linehan
November 7, 2001
I've had the pleasure of meeting Mike whom I meet at the Hamptons over two years ago. Mike has a special place in my family, he was like a son to my father who is a retired chief and worked in his firehouse. Mike is sorely missed by many of his Hampton friends. I want his family to know I am so proud to have had the honor of knowing him. My thoughts and prayers are with his loving family at this time. I hope they can find comfort in knowing how loved Mike was and how he has touched so many lives.
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