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Kenneth W. Basnicki
Kenneth W. Basnicki
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Kenneth Basnicki Obituary
It's pretty normal to not listen to what your father has to say," said Erica Basnicki, speaking for herself and other 22-year-olds. "Now it's funny how many times I say, `Dad always said this.' I actually listen to him more now."
Her father, Kenneth Basnicki, financial marketing director for BEA Systems, was meeting co-workers at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11.
She remembers how he helped her when her college application was rejected, encouraging her to do some research and write letters. "Nothing else mattered at that moment other than me getting into university, and I did," she said.
Mr. Basnicki, who lived in Toronto, brought that same determination to recreation — mountain biking, golfing, skiing and snowboarding with his wife, Maureen, and son, Brennan, in addition to his daughter. At 48, he had a group of friends who enjoyed snowboarding together. "We called them the grays on trays," Erica Basnicki said.
Now she hopes to study journalism in New York City. "The best way to honor my dad for me is to not be scared, and to live and go to school in New York," she said. "I know my dad's fighting for me somehow. He'll work his magic, and I'll work my magic over here."
57 Entries
Sylvie De Carufel
November 29, 2024
Je n'ai jamais oublié votre gentillesse. Reposez en paix
Sylvie De Carufel Nancy sur Claypine Rise
Cynthia Olley
November 13, 2021
I am the 1st generation on my dad's side, born in Aberdeen Scotland-1928..his family moved to Detroit in 1929, via Toronto, I have 2nd cousins from Toronto..It was very Horrific what happened on 9/11
.. I am interested if would write a book on her experience..Cynthia A. Olley
David BROWN
September 10, 2021
I remember.
Cindy Roe
August 31, 2021
Remembering Kenneth on the 20th anniversary of 9/11....
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June 24, 2019
In memory of a Toronto, Ontario native
September 10, 2016
15 years have passes but we still remember and grieve for the friends, family and heroes we lost.
Del Newberry
February 26, 2016
My thoughts and prayers go out for Kenneth's family and friends. We will never forget. With much love from Texas,
September 12, 2015
Fourteen years later I still pause and remember you. We worked together at Pyramid Technology back in 1998. Sad that we lost touch so many years ago, but we are forever connected because of 9/11.
May 10, 2013
BOB WHITE
Jerry Sanders
April 23, 2013
Maureen,
I had the priviledge of meeting you following the 5K Sunday. I so wish I could have been better with words but your story of your loss nearly left me speechless. I would have loved to have spent more time with you. I later looked around for you after I did as you suggested and returned to the memorial and sat a while. I simply tried to absorb it all. I wished I could have shared my story of that day(9/11). Meeting you helped to heal wounds that I, like much of the world suffered that day. I now know why I was so grief stricken on 9/11. I'm so glad to have experienced the memorial with a friend. I appreciate the time you shared with me. I so admire your courage and determination. My best, Jerry (and US flag) [email protected]
Barbara Boam
January 23, 2013
I walked a mile for you (mile #145) on 1/23/13 as a dedication to your life.
September 11, 2012
Maureen
I felt deeply for you today at a memorial service here in South Carolina. I worked with Ken at BEA and was scheduled to be with him that day. Over the years I have thought of him many many time
May God comfort you and keep you.
Ed Marshall
nana buntino
November 9, 2011
WE purchased a fallen 2 light jersey in memory of the 9-11 victims. Ours came today and we have the honor of bearing the name of Kenneth William Basnicki on ours. Forever in our hearts!
Irene Lanno
September 14, 2011
Maureen,
I don't know if you remember me, but we went to high school (St.Joe's Islington) together.
Imagine my shock when I watched the special TV program on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 to see you speaking about your husband. I recognized you immediately. I admire your strength and pose.
My thoughts have been with you and your family ever since. May you continue to find strength in your wonderful memories. They can not take that away from you.
All the best.
Irene Lanno (Stancu)
Bill Wagner
September 12, 2011
I can't believe it has been ten years. In many ways, it feels like it was just yesterday. Wishing your family strength. (Former BEA Systems employee).
Kymberli Colbourne
September 11, 2011
We hold you in our hearts.
Angie Fraser(Wizniak)
September 11, 2011
9/11
Remembering Ken on this Anniversary of such a sad day and my thoughts are with You and your Family on this day.
September 15, 2009
thinking of ken these past years.was wondering how to let you and the family know ......................
i miss his laugh,sense of humour and wit. ken and i worked on the georgian bay property(peas marsh) over the years did a lot of surveying... always enjoyed talking to you both. my honest wishes for all to always remember ken at his best.he was my friend....(former zumo employee).paul r.
Maria McCallan
June 6, 2009
Thinking of you today. As a fellow Etobicoke resident, your death really hit home. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. RIP
Greg Blyskosz
September 11, 2008
Dear Maureen
It's been a little while but Agnieszka and I would like to let you know that our thoughts are always with you, especially at this time. Our warmest to you and your family.
Greg
DAVID BROWN
September 11, 2008
I REMEMBER KEN AS A FRIEND OF THE FAMILY AT KIPLING COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE. 9/11 TOUCHED MANY AROUND THE WORLD AND WE WILL MOURN THE EMPTY CHAIRS AROUND THE WORLD NO MATTER HOW MANY YEARS PASS. GOD BLESS THEM ALL
Gord Platt
August 25, 2008
Dear Maureen,
I attended Canada's 911 Foundation Motorcycle Ride this past weekend. Your courage to speak at the 500+ banquet and relay your story about your husband Ken was not only moving but inspiring. In this fast paced world, it is very important we take the time to recognize the most important values as human beings. May god bless you and your family and know that on the highway to heaven, Ken is riding a Harley with a grin that comes only from knowing the true feeling of freedom.
Doug Abraham
December 10, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
Ted Cresencia
March 13, 2007
I saw Ken's name right after 9/11 but I was not sure if it was him. After all this years, now I know.
Ken was a very good salesperson for Sperry. As part of Technical Support, I remember riding in his Corvette going to a client. A very likeable person indeed. A very tragic loss.
Ted Cresencia
Frank Sheffield
March 9, 2007
March 9, 2007 - Funny, by chance I met a mutual colleague at a restaurant last night and Ken's name came up so I decided to "Google" him today. I have fond memories of working with Ken at Sperry in the early 1980's. Back when mainframes were king and expense accounts were bottomless pits. He was one of the slickest salesmen I ever met and there were no holds barred when you travelled in his circle, believe you me.
Amanda Hislop
October 27, 2006
I didn't know you, but I feel a conection to you and your family, my husband to be is Stephen Basnicki, and we now have a daughter together (Zoe Basnicki 08/20/05). I just wanted to pay my respects and pass my love on to your family.
kristine
October 16, 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.
Mark Lindros
September 13, 2006
Unfortunately, I never knew Ken in BEA as I did Ed Felt who passed on flight 93. I was moved by your stories of Ken and sincerely wish the best for his family. I am deeply saddened by your loss and my heart is with you.
Lisa Sullivan
September 12, 2006
I work for BEA Systems Education Services team and remember 911 vividly. I was trapped in California and spent the week trying to locate people that were working for us around the country. Although I did not know Ken personally, my thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Lisa Iacono
September 12, 2006
To Ken's Family -
I was a colleague of Ken's, although we did not ever cross paths at BEA Systems. I send my prayers and thoughts as we remember him on his 5 year anniversary.
With sincerest condolences,
Lisa Iacono
BEA Systems, Inc.
Alicia Vaquera
September 11, 2006
Erica,
I know i don't know you but I read what you wrote about your father and i want to tell you that I'm sorry and GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. You father will always be with you no matter what and I'm glad that you are going to go and support your father to be a journalist in N.Y.GOD BLESS YOU! MAY KENNETH W. BASKNICKI REST IN PEACE.
Marlene Zawierucha
September 8, 2006
Erica,
Meeting you today at The World Trade Centre site was overwhelming and emotional. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Although I did not know your father he must have been a jem. Keep him close in your thoughts and dreams.
P Tabbernor
August 22, 2006
In memory....
Carla Ray
September 12, 2005
Maureen,
Its taken me a long time to write this, I have started to send you a letter many times. Even now, I find it difficult to acknowledge that the friend I met when I was sixteen years old and spent many wonderful times with, is now gone. I remember days of camping, trying out his new recipes and having many late nights in Yorkville. I also remember my first motorcycle ride with Ken! When Nicholas was born, he was one of the first people at the hospital showering him with gifts. I am proud that he is the godfather of my son. It is with a heavy heart and wonderful heartfelt memories that I wish you and the children, peace and blessings. He will not be forgotten,ever. I want you to know that I went to Ground Zero, less than one month after the terrorist attack, to say goodbye.
God Bless,
Carla Ray (Goard)
Craig Conti
September 11, 2005
I met Ken when he worked for Stratus Computer (and I worked for a small software firm that was a partner with Stratus). The number of times we actually met face-to-face was probably less than a dozen, but Ken was one of those people who made you feel like a close friend in a very short period of time. He would be someone who immediately put you in a great mood. I just found out about this site today - 4 short years later - and I immediately thought about Ken. He will not be forgotten.
Teresa Roussel
August 16, 2004
Ken joined Bell Data Systems while I was Training Manager and I had the great pleasure to have worked with him during his time there. He was a determined person and full of life. Over the years I have often remembered discussions with him. We are all poorer now that he has gone.
Michael Kuhnert
September 11, 2003
To Erica and Family. We send you our support in remembrance today in the loss of your Father. Yours has been a very public grieving and in that, you have courageously invited the world to share your sorrow.
Our time together was short, interrupted by an event so terrible in its toll and affecting in its scope. You remain our first and best designer. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.
David Martinelli
September 11, 2003
To the Basnicki family,
Although I did not know Ken, I wanted to remember him at the 2nd anniversary of his passing; may you feel consoled to know that he has gone to a better place. I would like to share a poem which I have written in rememberance; know that many people who did not know him, will remember the courage and strength he faced that day. May Ken rest in peace.
The heroes of September 11
Look up at the heavens, and you will find;
three thousand twinkling stars by God were made.
Each star is unique, every facet eternal;
grazing the skies every evening.
As every day pushes onward, let us remember the bravery, courage, and the strength, which helped many nations through that awful day.
Time will of course move on,
but the lessons of that day will be forever etched in one's memory.
Never to be forgotten.
Chantel FAYANT
February 23, 2003
Hey. Im sure you know my grandpa Brian Basnicki. I want to let you know that we're always be in ur hearts.
Debbie Sherry
November 2, 2002
My heart goes out to the Basnicki family. May GOD keep you strong and loving.
sam cece
September 18, 2002
my thoughts are with the basnicki family. ken was a good man.
Sue Maynard
September 17, 2002
Erica,
I've been looking for you for ages. Just found out about your dad...so sorry for you and your family. Anytime you want to talk, or anything, let me know. Miss you always,
Sue
Chris (Mrs) Morrison
September 13, 2002
Dear Maureen, I am an aquaintance of your co-worker, Sylvie. She informed me of your loss at the time, and I felt very sad for you. A year later, the wounds that were starting to heal must have been re-opened with all the ceremonies. May God give you peace and comfort through this terrible time. I send hugs to you and your children.
harsha ananthram
September 11, 2002
i hope that you honour your dad's memory by becoming a great journalist.what better way to fight injustice than with a pen.....god bless you.
Charlotte Harwood
September 11, 2002
My sincere condolances for the family of kenneth Basniki. I have not been graced with the pleasure of meeting this man, but from what I had seen here in his tribute, I would have been very fortunate to meet him. I am sorry for your loss.
Larry Tanning
July 16, 2002
Ken helped me establish a successful business in Canada. He was a tenacious sales professional in business and it paid off with his many accomplishments. He had the same focus to his family and passion for his much loved mountain sports. I miss him and will always be grateful.
Jane Roundtree
May 30, 2002
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Angie Campbell
April 22, 2002
Rest in peace and may God Bless the family and friends that you left behind.
Richard Barr
April 18, 2002
I also worked with Ken at Sperry in Canada during the late 1980's. Ken was a great guy. It is hard to believe we all have so few degrees of separation now that Ken and I were both living and working here in New York. My prayers go out to his family and friends.
Elizabeth Williams
March 11, 2002
I had the good fortune to work with Ken at Sperry Canada and at Bell Data Systems. I'll remember him as a man with boundless energy, a positive, determined attitude and a bright, twinkling smile. No doubt he will take those attributes with him to his latest challenge, which he, no doubt, will see as an opportunity for success.
His family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Jason McHardie
January 30, 2002
My deepest sympathies to the Basnicki family. May God bring your family peace in the future.
Jason McHardie (London, ON )
January 30, 2002
Teresa Jahn
January 9, 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
Toby & DJ (cousin)
December 31, 2001
A little girl 60 years ago wrote:
"I simply can't build my hopes on a foundation of confusion, misery and death... I think... peace and tranquility will return again."
.....Anne Frank
Life here in NY, amidst the anguish and struggle against evil, is not lived from joy to joy, or from pain to pain; it is a side-by-side journey of grief and joy, sorrow and laughter.
The love of our family frees us of all the weight and pain of life.
As this whirlwind passes, and the treasured memories of the past become shadows that will carry you through the future, I toast each of the Basnicki family for your strength, grace, compassion and drive through these difficult times.
IRENE STAPINSKI
December 7, 2001
GOD BLESS KENNETH W. BASNICKI AND
MAY HE REST IN PEACE.GOD BLESS HIS
FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA
AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01
Sarah Ulmer
December 5, 2001
To all the friends & family of kenneth Basnicki... you may not know me, but please take comfort in knowing that my thoughts are with you. In a world of uncertainty only one thing is certain, that those people we care about most in life are always taken from us too soon.
Greg Chuchmach
November 12, 2001
I am a childhood friend of Ken's from Toronto who played hockey with
Ken many years ago for the ST.Josephats
church team. Its been quite a few years since but Ill always remember Ken and I was very sorry to hear of his passing under these circumstances. I wish his family all the best.
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