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William Dean Obituary
Billy Dean called his mom every day, just to tell her what was going on. "Which couldn't have been much, because he had just spoken to her the day before," noted his sister Donna Dean. "He did it because he knew how much it meant to her."
He would also place a separate call each day to his father, just so dad would not feel left out. They would discuss home improvements, gardening, the stock market. "If you ever saw Billy's front lawn or looked at the condition of his stock portfolio," said Donna Dean. "You'd realize it was often the blind leading the blind."
Mr. Dean, 35, was a lifelong New Yorker, a survivor of a Hell's Kitchen childhood, a graduate of the Bronx High School of Science and then the College of Insurance, which eventually opened the door to a career at Marsh & McLennan, where he was a vice president in claims casualty. Yet when he and his wife, Tricia, moved to Floral Park, on Long Island, six years ago, Mr. Dean became an instant surburbanite, taking up gardening and installing sheet rock in a bedroom they had added on.
Tricia Dean talked of her husband's athleticism — he had completed one New York City Marathon and two triathalons on Long Island — as well as his greatest chagrin: his shock of red hair. Growing up, he disdained red clothing lest it clash with his curls; as an adult he opted for a Marine-style cut. Yet for those who adored those locks and their bearer, their legacy will endure on his 3- year-old son, Matthew, and perhaps even his baby daughter, Claire Anne, who was born on Dec. 18.
"All of his achievements were a quiet daily pursuit, one that he never confused with financial prosperity or possessions," said his sister Donna. "He was successful because he loved us all — every day, little by little, gesture by gesture, word by word."
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Cheryl DeMillo
April 12, 2025
My name is Cheryl. I live in a small town Seneca Falls upstate NY. Our church St. Patrick´s made memorial stars with names of people affected on 9/11. I have 4 stars and Billy´s is one of them. I have kept him and his family in my prayers . I still have his star. I keep it in the hutch in my kitchen. He will always be remembered. He did not die in vain. My sincere condolences and Love to you and your family.
Cindy Roe
September 6, 2021
Remembering William on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Phyllis Gross
September 11, 2019
I lived at 442 for many years and knew the Dean family quite well. I am so, so sorry that when 911 happened I couldn't be there for all of you. What a wonderful young man to have perished then. I was so sorry to hear about this tragedy and your loss. May G-d bless you all and may He always be there for your family and for your beloved son in heaven! Respectfully, Phyllis Asch Gross 9/11/19
Steven Viebrock
March 31, 2019
The years go by so quickly, it is hard to believe that it has been over17 years since Billy was taken from us. Billy and his family remain in my thoughts and prayers.
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Nancie Arko
September 12, 2018
Hugs to your family! Remembering your sacrifice.
Stephanie
September 11, 2018
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. May your love in him live on forever!
Paul Cowman
April 27, 2018
God bless you Billy Dean ...
Just visited 9/11 memorial march 2018
Paul and Anne cowman RIP
Edythe Richman
September 11, 2017
Saw his name today and read about him. So sorry for your loss.
John Costello
September 11, 2015
A great guy who always had a great story. He enjoyed coming to Syracuse where I would show him around the "country." He used to bust my chops about living in the "country", but truly loved learning about my life and community!
Delores Durant-Caesar
September 11, 2015
In the few years we worked together, you left a life-long impression. You continued to reach out and always made me feel like one of your many special friends. Your were one of the most authentic persons I've known. My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to your beautiful wife Trish and your beautiful children. I will always remember you (to those who knew you and those who didn't).
Liz Caplan
May 3, 2015
To the Dean Family: Malcolm Sr and Jr, Donna and Timmy.
I remember your brother William well from my days at 442( that was over 16 years ago). He had such a quiet kindness about him. I'm so sorry to learn all these years later that you lost him. My sincerest sympathies to you all.
Sending love and peace and continued flights of angels to Billy.
Sharon
September 11, 2013
Billy, I didn't know you well. You were my sister's friend, but I think of you every year on this day. I will always remember that you came to our mother's wake in 1989 and made me and Suz laugh (so much we had to duck into the back of the funeral home) You probably had no idea how much your sense of humor and compassion helped me that day. I am sorry you were taken from your family so young and on this tragic day. You are remembered, though, perhaps by more people than you realize.
Mildred Di Iorio
September 11, 2013
Bill and I worked together. I was a client from BASF. I had lunch with Bill in May before his death. He was so estactic about his wife's pregnancy that day. He absolutely loved his family and though I never met you I know he loved you all so dearly. You are the first people I thought of when the photos first appeared on TV. I think of you every year.
I believe in a natural balance in life. For every suffering there is joy. So, May God Bless your family and fill your lives with lasting happiness.
September 14, 2012
Bill, I'll never forget seeing Roger, leaning against the wall, beside himself in anguish. Someone had told me he lost his Best Friend and Brother-in-Law. My Prayer is to your Family's Blessings be multiplied.
Vika
September 11, 2012
You're in our hearts & never be forgotten.
Maureen Saladino
September 11, 2012
Thinking of you and your loving family today 9/11/12. Know you are in our prayers today and always.
Maureen Saladino
September 11, 2012
Thinking of you all on this solemn occassion. God bless you William and your loving family. We never forget!
Clifton
September 21, 2011
The Lord Bless you, and keep you , the Lord maketh His face shine upon you, and give you Peace. Amen!
September 16, 2011
After mass 9/11, at the door were baskets filled with names of all the victims lost ten yrs. ago. Parishners were asked to take a slip of paper from a basket and pray for our brethren lost and their families. I reached in, pulled out one and proceeded to my car. I read the name, William Thomas Dean and said a short prayer as I walked. When I got home, I searched the internet in hopes of learning more about William. I was saddened to learn that he was only 35 in 2011, the same age as my youngest daughter now and only a few years older than my olderst daughter had he lived. He could have been my son. I was stunned to see he was from Floral Park since my husband and I grew up in Franklin Square. Of all the thousands of names in the basket, William came to me, stangely since we now live in Wilmington, NC. I felt a closeness to William,that it wasn't by chance, but somehow it was intended that I pray for William and his family.
My husband is a retired Marine who served in Vietnam (1968-69) we had just been married when he left and our first child was born. He was 24 at the time and I anguished over not knowing if he would return and ever meet his daughter. God spared him and we have been blessed with 43 yrs together, 4 daughters and 8 grandchildren. I pray now each day for William's peace with our Lord and the family's comfort in their fond memories in the short time they shared.
Josie Fitzgerald
Wilmington, North Carollina
Nancie Arko
September 14, 2011
I was at service in Broomfield CO for 9/11 this year. They had a flag for every victim and asked that we take one home to research the legacy you left behind. Looks like a nice family and I am sorry for their loss. From what I read you must have been a great friend also. We lost much that day!!
Suzy Cribbins
September 12, 2011
I miss you and love you, Billy. I try to explain to my children or to others...the kind of person you were, and the kind of friend you were...and it always falls so short. You are one of a kind. My love and prayers to your beautiful family.
September 11, 2011
I never knew you, but saw your name on tv today ten years on.I will never forget that day.
"There is no death! the stars go down To rise upon some other shore, And bright in Heaven's jeweled crown, They shine for ever more."
- John L. McCreery
Donna Dean
September 11, 2011
Thank you to all who shared comments through the years. On this 10th anniversary, it was comforting to read.
We love and miss you Billy!
September 10, 2011
Luv' ya dude...always remembering and never forgetting...better times when we were growing up.
Antonino Marc Rocca Jr.
Doug Abraham
April 21, 2009
Warm Summer Sun
Warm summer sun,
Shine kindly here,
Warm southern wind,
Blow softly here.
Green sod above,
Lie light, lie light.
Good night, dear heart,
Good night, good night.
By Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens)
The Poetry Foundation
The Mark Dean Family
September 11, 2007
None of us ever will forget...
Kristine
October 30, 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.
William T. Dean
October 27, 2006
When I first heard the Name William T. Dean I thought Why is my name on that list.That was one of the most scariest thigs that ran through my mind when I saw my own name there. I Know The personality was there of him, I know the love was there of him, I know the care of others was there of him,but most of all the love of God , Family, and life was alwalys there of him. I know because
you cant be like that unless your name is also William T. Dean. God bless you all
P Tabbernor
September 21, 2006
In remembrance....
Andrew Kessler
September 3, 2006
Billy was like an older brother to me growing up always looked out for me around the older guys in the family even though we were not blood relatives we were! My parents and uncle Malcolm and Aunt Elenor were good friends and still are to this day,so all the kids and myself were like cousins and even though I live in ohio I miss all those good times we had. Billy and his family were to come to my wedding a month later in Ohio and that was a heart breaking day when Billy and his family couldnt join in the celebration but I know he was there looking out for me. I will always remember Billy as my brother looking down from heaven saying it is alright. My thoughts and prayers and most of all my love goes out to Tricia,Matthew,Claire,Uncle Mal, Aunt El,Malcolm JR, Donna, and Timmy. Love Ya,
Deneka Peniston
September 11, 2003
Billy Dean was one of my favorite counselors at the Police Athletic League (P.A.L.)when I was a kid. He was always kind even when he admonished me for misbehaving. Even though I had not spoken to or seen him in what might be ten years, I feel as though another piece of my universe has been dented. I truly believe he was an old soul who was put on this earth to touch us no matter for how short a period and I am glad that I met him. I'd like to offer my sincere condolences to the Dean family and friends and I wish you all peace and blessings!!
Deneka Peniston
Laurie Trotman
September 11, 2003
Billy's memory lives on in all of those who knew him and loved him. I know how much he meant to his family. Although I hadn't seen Billy for many years, I remembered how much fun he was during our unforgettable weekend upstate! I was very honored to be a part of the Billy Dean memorial day his family had. I saw nothing but love for a man who meant so much to those around him. Thoughts and prayers go out to Donna, Mr& Mrs Dean, Tricia, Mathew, Claire, Timmy and Malcolm.
Steven Viebrock
February 20, 2003
Unfortunately the only time Billy and I had an opportunity to spend time together was during our annual Golf excursion to Myrtle Beach. I considered Billy one of my very good friends, which began the moment I met him 6 years ago. Our friendship grew not because he would give those putts where no one else would, but because of his genuine personality and the strong family values he displayed.
While I've not had the pleasure of meeting his wife Trish or his two beautiful children, Billy and his family remain in my thoughts and prayers.
LaTonya Evans-Giordano
September 11, 2002
It took me a while to get my thoughts together in order to say something. Billy would have been surprised being that I can't shut my mouth up for anything. You did it Billy, you silenced me for a whole year. Its been a year already and I still can't believe you are gone. I still remember all the crazy times we've had. Whether it was at Reliance, playing softball or just hanging. I miss your friendship and your constant nagging. Boy would I do anything to hear you nag at me or vice versa once more. Billy you and Tricia had two beautiful children. You did very well. You've worked hard for what you wanted and you got it. I owe you a slap on the back, OK. I'm grateful to have known you and have you on my side when I needed a friend. I only hope I was there for you as well. You are gone but you will never be forgotten. May God bless your soul and comfort your family. Love ya Signed...."LA"
Lesly Hendershot
September 11, 2002
I am a student at Mount Union College in Alliance Ohio and today as I stepped out of my dorm room and headed for class over 3,000 flags with names attached where lining the walk-ways to remember all of the lives lost. We were encouraged to take a flag and learn a little about the person. Although I never knew Bill personally I want his family and friends to know that from this day on I will be keeping Bill and his family in my prayers and my thoughts are with all of you. God Bless you and your family Bill
Joe & Mary Dean
September 11, 2002
My husband son is name William Dean. Our prayers and thoughts are with you always.
SILVIA MONROIG
September 11, 2002
Bill and I worked together at Liberty Mutual ins co back in the 80's and became pretty good friends, he was a great person with cute little red curls which I would tease him about all day long.
Today, one year later you and your family are still in my thoughts and in my prayers.
You will be missed.
Laura Blome
August 25, 2002
To the Family & Friends of Bill,
I don't belive that words can express my true sorrow. I was a business associate from Travelers. Bill spoke with me less than two weeks prior to this horrific act unfolding to change a business meeting date. Bill, I tried to call you on the morning of 9/11, in fear of your safety, you remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Matt Denny
May 17, 2002
Bill, I can't express the shock felt when I received the Bronx Science Alumni newsletter yesterday and saw your picture. Although we haven't seen each other since high school, I remember you well. I was deeply saddened by the news. My prayers go out to your family. May they find comfort in the fact that even though you are gone, you are still watching over them.
Angie Campbell
April 23, 2002
May God Bless you and may you rest in peace forever.
linda dean/kennedy
April 19, 2002
I know I didn"t know you but we do share a common last name. Rest in peace Billy.
Karen & Michele
February 20, 2002
Rest in Peace, Billy - you will be missed forever. Although we didn't see you as much when you left our job, we always remembered the fun we had at our lunches with the whole gang. Our love to Tricia, Matthew and Claire. God Bless You in Heaven. Love, Karen and Michele
scott Kessler
February 20, 2002
To know Billy is Love him. He was like a Brother to me because we knew each other since he was about 4 years old. The Great times spend with Him will be remembered and the times that could have been will be missed. I will miss having him call me Scotty. My prayers go out to Tricia, Mathew, and Claire Anne and his Family who are like a second family to me. Billy was taken from us but He will never be forgotton. Miss ya' Friend
The Rev. Jose Bove
February 17, 2002
Tricia, what a joy your husband must have been! I think red-haired persons were born with built-in good humor! At least, that has been my experience. Take comfort in his memory and how he lives on through your children. Please convey my sympathy to Billy's mom, for whom he obviously cared so much. And you, take peace in knowing that he is with you always, in ways that only you can feel. God bless you and the children.
roberta Ed Gianferrari
January 20, 2002
Trisha and children,
Bill will always be in our Prayers.
Love, Ed and Roberta
Anonymous
January 8, 2002
MAY THE LORD BLESS WILLIAM T.DEAN
AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE WITH GOD
AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..AMEN..+++
Teresa Jahn
January 5, 2002
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
Charlene Smith
January 2, 2002
To the Family & friends of Bill,
You have my deepest sympathy. He'll always be remembered.
January 2, 2002
Melissa Latorra
December 16, 2001
To the friends and family of William Dean:
On behalf of the students at Ursinus College, we are sorry for your loss and we will keep you in our prayers. Despite the tragedy, we hope you will have a wonderful holiday season.
Brenda Pace
November 7, 2001
To the family,
You are in our hearts and prayers.
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