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Donald F. Spampinato Jr.
Donald F. Spampinato Jr.
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Donald Spampinato Obituary
Donald F. Spampinato Jr., 39, was in very good shape, so good that he once qualified for the famous Iron Man triathlon in Hawaii. When he became a husband and a father, he continued to compete, but he made sure his training never got in the way of time with his wife, Laurie, and three sons, Donald, 6, David, 4, and Peter, 22 months. "He would go for a swim in the morning before work at the pool club up the street, or he would go for a run in the evening after the kids were in bed," his wife said. "It was important that we have dinner together every night, that he give the boys their bath. If he trained in the morning, he would always be back in time for breakfast."
Before trying his hand at Wall Street, Mr. Spampinato, a lifelong resident of Manhasset, N.Y., had worked as a high school teacher and coach. As a corporate bond trader at Cantor Fitzgerald, he was at his desk on the 104th floor of the World Trade Center's north tower every morning at 7:30. He had signed up to coach his older sons' soccer teams this fall. On Sept. 8, he had completed a triathlon ‹ a competition that includes swimming, biking and running ‹ at Point Lookout on Long Island.
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Donna Moran
July 7, 2024
Donald, I found out recently that you were the Grandson of my Grandmother's Sister Mary Devaney, we are connected through a little village in Borrisoleigh, County Tipperary, Ireland. You sounded like a great person and I am sorry we never got the chance to meet. Such a tragedy RIP.
Brady Sullivan
September 11, 2019
Don was very kind to me during our high school years. He got me a job as a lifeguard in '79 at Bar Beach. We attended some parties together and concerts. He was such a solid, warm and understanding person. His sense of humor was hilarious. He could always bring a smile to my face. I joined the Army after school and we lost touch with each other. I was terribly saddened to hear of his passing on 9/11. I would want to tell his family what a wonderful person he was to me and so many others. I still think of him throughout the year. I will never forget his kindness and how he could make me laugh. Rest in Peace brother.
The Kindred Family
November 22, 2018
We send our sincere condolences to your family for your loss of Don. Daily may God continue to give the strength needed. He will always be missed.
September 11, 2016
September 11, 2016
Aunt Ursula is here and we talked about all our memories of you and what a wonderful man you were. So many lovely memories of you as a boy and as a father.
We will never forget.
Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie
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Aunt Joan& Uncle Eddie
September 12, 2015
We will never forget that fateful day. We were crossing the border from Canada to the United States and immediately thought of you working on the 103rd floor of Cantor-Fitzgerald. We miss you and your mother, Mary. She loved you so very much.
Fred Berman
September 5, 2015
Coach Spampinato. That's how I knew him. He was my soccer coach at Manhasset High School back in the late '80s, and he was a kind, fair, supportive coach, who always gave every kid on the team a chance, no matter their skill level. Next week I begin coaching my 7 year old son's soccer team, and Coach Spampinato will be in my thoughts on the field.
Joan & Ed Hannigan
September 11, 2014
Looked at a photo of your 3 sons today….great looking boys.
We will never forget and will always carry you & your mother in our hearts.
Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie
Philip Spampinato
May 29, 2014
Dear Spampinato Family,
My niece just visited the Memorial Museum and noticed Donald Jr.'s name on the memorial list and called to ask if he was a relative. Apparently, I am not a direct relative but somewhere back in time I'm sure we are. My grandparents left Villarosa, Sicily around 1916 for NYC. I grew up in East Elmhurst, moved to Whitestone (Bayside HS 1960), then moved to Hauppauge after marrying in 1965, and ended up in Knoxville, TN 38 years ago. Anyway, enough about me.
I still become emotional whenever I read about, or see anything that takes me back to that horrendous day and the aftermath that followed. I am especially saddened when it's about someone as fine a man as Donald Jr. … I wish I could have met him. I don't know how the families, yours and others, were able to cope with the loss. It can only be testimony to the courage and strength that a man like Donald Jr. imparted to his wife and children. May God watch over and bless you all.
Heartfelt condolences … Philip T. Spampinato
Fred Lipscomb
September 13, 2013
Don, Don, Don. I still hear the laughter in our voices as we used to reminisce about our crazy college days. I remember your California visit as if was just yesterday. I miss our serious life conversations but most of all I miss my good friend. You and the family are always in my thoughts.
Mike Allario
September 12, 2013
You introduced me to triathlons & surfing; to this day, every time I engage in these activities I think of the influence you made. Thank you for taking an interest in me and making such a positive impression. God Bless you & your family Donald.
Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie
September 12, 2013
Remembering you & what a fine young man you were. You & your wonderful, loving mother will always be in our hearts.
We will never forget.
Bobbie Padovano
July 31, 2013
I visited the 9/11 Memorial in NY on Friday, July 26, 2013 and saw Donald's name for the second time. My husbands family lives on Staten Island and we visit almost every year. My older son wanted to visit this trip and so we did. I showed him Donald's name. Even though I don't know Donald, his last name caught my eye. My maiden name is Spampinato. After seeing his picture here, he certainly has the Spampinato good looks. My Great Grandfather came over from Sicily as a stow away on a cargo ship back in 1908. I am the fourth generation from his lineage. Anyway, I wanted to look Donald up and give my sincere condolences to his family and friends. I am sure it is still hard today so many years later. May God keep you all in his mighty hands and cover you with his love and grace. Sincerely, Bobbie (Spampinato) Padovano
Joan Hannigan
September 11, 2012
Thinking of you, your Mom, sister & brother today. Watched the 9/11 tribute this morning...a horrendous day for the Hannigan family. You will always be in our hearts and we will never forget.
Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie
September 12, 2011
Hi Laurie, We never met but I can't express how sorry I am and how devastated I was when I learned of your loss 10 years ago. I met Don in HS when he and my boyfriend at the time used to hot rod around; Don in his camero and the other guy in a firebird. We all became friends and I hung out at the beach during the summer Don was a lifeguard and he was a great friend to me when my boyfriend went off to college. Don was a very special man and its no surprise to me to learn that he was a wonderful father and husband. I think of him often and especially yesterday. All the best, Therese Filardi
Joan Hannigan
September 10, 2011
Ten years have gone by and the memories of you remain as fresh as yesterday in the hearts of the family.
Last nite we watched an Anderson Cooper special on CNN.
Your son, Donald Jr. spoke several times. He looks so much like you & has your ease in speaking.
Your mother is one terrific lady & remains one of the kindest & loving human beings on this earth.
With love, Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie...We will never forget.
Maureen
July 14, 2011
I worked with Donny at Nassau Beach. I was the only girl for a couple of years on the beach. Most of the guys gave me a hard time and felt a "girl" shouldn't be working as an ocean guard. Donny was such a great support for me. He was a real gentleman and encouraged me to do my best and show the guys that I belonged there. I will always remember his kindness. Maureen
July 14, 2011
Alger Hall 83, Spring Break 83, Racquet Lake 84. God Bless you and your family.
Joan Hannigan
September 11, 2009
Donald you are always in our thoughts.
Your Mom is still the "earth mother" of all earth mothers, always giving of herself to others.
Tonight she had a mass in remembrance of you & several of your Aunts & Uncles etc. were with her.
With love, Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie...We will never forget.
Michael Spampinato
September 11, 2009
As time goes by, always remember that we will never forget. I hope your family is well
Joan Hannigan
September 11, 2008
Donald:
It's hard to believe 7 years have gone by.
Uncle Billy took your Mom to Cantor Fitzgerald today for their yearly memorial.
I look at the picture of you that is posted & remember that same smile at Joanie's wedding.
With love, Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie
Fred Lipscomb
December 29, 2007
Laurie, time sure does fly but please know that amongst the hectic days of my life, I always think of Don. On those days when I need a lift me up, I reflect back to our Cortland days and post Cortland days and that always brings a smile to my face. I could always count on my good friend Don to make me smile and that hasn't changed. My prayers are with you not only today and everyday. I hope the boys are doing well. I miss him dearly.
Joan Hannigan
September 11, 2007
Washington Irving once wrote that "a mother's love endures through all". So has your mother's love endured Donald.
She's a wonderful woman & so many of her fine & caring qualities were passed on to you.
Your family, which continues to grow by leaps & bounds, remembers & honors you. We will never forget.
Aunt Joan & Uncle Eddie
kristine
August 19, 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.
John Spampinato Jr.
August 19, 2007
Dear Laurie
You don't know me but I knew your husband. He played hockey at the same rink I work at. He was an awesome guy but the reason we got to know each other was because of our last names. I think he was curious if I was a distant relative but he was such a nice person to everyone there especially me. My heart goes out to you and his family.
P Tabbernor
March 17, 2007
In memory....
Joan Hannigan
September 11, 2006
Dear Donald:
Spoke to your mother yesterday, she had a Mass said for you. Your loved ones miss you so much. I know you are watching over them especially your 3 sons. They certainly are handsome lads & they have your sparkling smile.
Uncle Ed & I will never forget.
Bobbye Rucker
September 11, 2006
Today at The University of Texas at Tyler, we have purposed to remember every single victim of 9-11. One of our opportunities to connect on a personal level was to wear the name of one of those who died on that day. I have worn and will wear for the rest of the week, the name of your husband. There are no words to express my sadness for you and for your children. In reading other emails I realized that you have 3 sons. I too have 3 sons- and cannot imagine the grief that each will carry for their dad. God Bless you. Donald must have been an incredible man!
Joan Hannigan
February 19, 2006
Received a beautiful picture of your children from Laurie this past Christmas (2005). See so much of you in their faces.
Uncle Ed & I think & talk about you & always will.
Fred Lipscomb Lipscomb
January 8, 2004
Laurie,
It only seems like yesterday that Don and I laughed about the trivial things in life. Our college connection has gone a long way. I so remember talking to Don on September 10, and as usual we ended on a high note. Its hard to believe that Don and I maintained a relationship for over 17 years after college. Thats how good of a friend he was. When I am having one of those days I frequently think of Don and how blessed we were that our paths crossed. He lives in me and is alive in me and will always be. We haven't spoken as often as we used to but know that I am thinking of you, Don and the boys daily. It was so nice to see the boys the last time I was in New York. My prayers are with you and hope to see you soon.
Mike Allario
September 11, 2003
Dear Laurie,
Although this message comes from way down here in Atlanta, GA. I am a long-ago acquaintance of both Don & Mike. Both these men were brothers to me. I started my lifeguard career under Don - he was my LT. at Hempstead Harbor; he (til this day) is a major influence as to "why" I am still active in Triathelons - he took me aside at age 18 and showed me what a bike was really designed for, and why I needed to look past just the next day. Mike was my age - and we stuck pretty close (I miss him); as life often does: college, careers & time sent us in different directions. Although I haven't seen Donny or Mike since 1988(even Before 911)Donnys' image would pop into my head every other day just before I'd either: climb on a bike; jump in a lap pool or strap on my sneakers - why? It was Donny who started it all for me and several others at the beach. Your husband made young men like me (even in 1986-88) believe they could achieve things most adults still struggle with today. From 800-miles away, on this Sept evening; my family sends a heartfelt blessing to you, your family & your beloved husband Donny who is THE BEST!
Signed - Mike Allario, Atlanta, Ga.
Michele Orosz
June 5, 2003
Dear Laurie,
I just found what happened. I don't know if you remember me, but I worked with you at Prudential. Laurie, I'm so very sorry for your loss. Don was a lovely man. Please know that the prayers of others will be with you and your children. God bless!
Michele
Aunt Edith & Uncle Bill Hannigan
September 14, 2002
Donald, You have always been an integral part of our family. As Tim's sponsor for confirmation, you served as a role model to him in so many ways. We still enjoy our memories of your stopping to visit and have dinner on your trips home from college in order to share your thoughts for the future. You have left a part of yourself with all in our family. We cherish your memory and hope God is holding you in the palm of his hand.
ursula sellitti
September 12, 2002
Coming from a large Irish family is a gift and Donalds Grandfather was blessed with 48 grandchildren and great grandchildren.Donalds passing has brought this large Irish Catholic family closer in so many ways we all think of him often his many Aunts Uncles and cousins. Donalds mother Mary and his sister Linda and brother Michael and laurie and the boys are in our hearts and prayers. From his loving Aunt
Frank Ciaravalli
September 11, 2002
Dear Laurie,
I have meant to write this note many times before today. You and your family have been and continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. We have fond memories of times at the circus with your family. I hope we can all feel that way again.
Sincerely,
Frank Ciaravalli
Diane Spampinato
July 19, 2002
Donald Spampinato --- I think of you often since I learned of your tragic death at the WTC. God love you and may He spare your family any further hurt and distress from your premature passing. You had so much yet to do raising your family and loving your wife. You and your family are in my prayers. Kindred spirits in name forever, Diane
Angie Campbell
May 16, 2002
May God Bless you and watch over the ones that you left behind on 9/11/01. Rest in peace..........
May 7, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN..DONALD F.SPANPINATO JR.AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ALL HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Betsey (Edgar) Ensign
February 3, 2002
I only recently found out that Don was a victim of the WTC tragedy, and have been meaning to write since. I was surprised at the impact his death has had on me since I learned of it. My mother sent me his portait in the NY Times; I figured this was a better way to respond, as I will now not keep putting it off!
I do not know you, Laurie, but I want to express my sympathy, and to let you know how sorry I am for your loss. Thinking back about Don, I am sure that he was very much the family man that you described in his bio., and that truly warms my heart. Although I have not seen or heard from him in many, many years, I knew Don very well in High School and College. We first met at Hempstead Harbor Beach, where he was a lifeguard. He had an amazing way about making people feel special. He was always laughing, making others laugh and enjoying each day. I will never forget his smile or his zest for life! Our paths continued to cross for many summers and I have always (and will continue to) think of him with fondness. He was a great guy with a huge heart back then, so I can only imagine the type of man he became.
Mere words sound hollow, yet I am so very sorry for your loss, and how your life has so tragically changed due to this senseless act of terrorism. I don't think any of us have been spared heartache from this event, and my heart truly goes out to you,Laurie, your boys, Don's parents, brother, sister, friends and family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the fact that he will always be a part of you, through your boys and your memories together, he will live on.
diane buhler
January 18, 2002
i knew Don years ago, he was one of my brokers, newer to the business. he was such a sweet guy, he had heart and he had spirit. laurie, i am so sorry for your loss. may you and your 3 sons know that Don touched many people, made them smile and laugh, you couldnt help but really like Don. in a business where there isnt always a lot of trust, don was one guy you knew you always could. my prayers are with you. diane
Aunt Joan
January 17, 2002
Donald...I will never forget you. Have so many memories of you as a young boy and then as a young man at the many family get-togethers when Mom & Pop lived in College Point. The cousins grew older and married and had families of their own...then we saw each other at
family celebrations. Joanie's wedding in June was special since so many family members attended including you & Laurie.
That was a blessing for us to
have had you with us then..with your smile and the sweet way about you. Remembering you with love & affection..always.
Deb A
January 1, 2002
I didn't know Donald's wife Laurie all that well, but I knew her through her cousin Barbara who lived across the street from me when we were kids. Laurie also attended the same high school as me (which is how I found out about her loss). I want to express my sincere and heartfelt sympathy to Donald's family and friends, especially to Laurie and her children.
Teresa Jahn
December 11, 2001
We are so very sorry for your loss of Donald. Our hearts cry with you.
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
Anello Frank
December 3, 2001
I was glad to have known Donald Spampinato while in high school. He was an assistant track coach. He was a great guy and I had a lot of respect and admiration for him. His family is in my thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
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