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Lt. Kenneth J. Phelan
Lt. Kenneth J. Phelan
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Kenneth Phelan Obituary
From an early age, Kenny Phelan looked out for other people. He took the children in the neighborhood no one else wanted to coach and turned them into a basketball team.
"He said, `Well, now these kids have somewhere to play,' " said his younger brother, Lenard. When the two of them became police officers in Manhattan, Kenny would drive by to see how Lenny, on foot patrol, was doing.
Their father, a retired firefighter, was proud when his sons joined the Fire Department. Kenny Phelan, who was 41, asked for his father's old firehouse, Engine Company 217 in Brooklyn, when he was promoted to lieutenant. Off duty, he led his four children — Kimberly, Erin, Danny and Kenny — on family outings to Walt Disney World and taught them sports. Now one of his sons plays third base and is known as "the Vacuum." Nothing gets past him.
Lieutenant Phelan and his wife, Patty, met as teenagers. Neither of them ever dated anyone else, and he was never without his wedding ring, which she still hopes will turn up. For their first date, he asked her to a Mets game. On the way there, she lost a contact lens. An old lady came out of her house, found it, and invited them in for Cokes. They made it to the game, and the Mets won. "I guess I won, too," Mrs. Phelan said. "People looked at us and it was always Kenny and Patty. I hope my children will have that, and I hope whoever didn't have that will have it in the future, because life is empty without it."
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on August 11, 2002.
PHELAN-Kenneth J. Lieutenant FDNY, Engine 217, Brooklyn, New York, and former firefighter in Ladder 7 & Engine 16 Manhattan. He died bravely in the line of duty on September 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center. Beloved husband of Patty. Loving father of Kimberly, Erin, Danny and Kenny, Jr. Cherished son of Helene and Daniel (Retired FDNY). Dear sonin-law of Bud and Di Horan. Devoted brother of Marian Owens, Jean Diaz, Mary Cox, Lenny (Lt. FDNY) and Fran Krische. Dear grandson of John Phelan & Helen Obremski. Loving godfather, godson, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend. The family will receive friends at Papavero Funeral Home, 72-27 Grand Ave, Maspeth, Friday 2-5 and 7-9PM. Memorial Mass Sunday, November 11, 2001 at Our Lady of Hope Church, 2:30PM. In lieu of flowers, donations to E-16/L-7 Fallen Firefighter Fund, 234 East 29th Street, NY, NY 10016, would appreciated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ed
September 11, 2024
I witnessed a young man putting up flowers on his street sign today. It's truly powerful how Kenneth continues to touch lives.
Bill S
September 11, 2021
God Bless you Kenny....
Derrick Luciano
May 2, 2021
Ken,
I know we didn't know each other, and I know that tragic day took you from your family, but today I was blessed to meet your four sisters and your mother today who had been out and stopped by to talk. I live in a house numbered "207"..which used to be "217" in Fairfield NJ, see this is a family house that we've lived in, Your families, So today I was introduced to you through them..and I was happy to sit and talk with them for a while.. before they left, I was elated to give back what was and belong back to the family, a steel crucifix that had been hanging in the house when bought it back in 2000. I know this was an omen and I"m hapy to have met and be connected to such a wonderful family. So Rest Easy, and may GOD bless and watch over your family.
Terri Pritchett
September 11, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. Just wanted to share this with you in memory of your loved one. My daughter is a firefighter and walked in memory of Kenneth the 110 flights of stairs to never be forgotten
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Erin
November 8, 2019
Hey dad!!!
Its hard to celebrate all the happy exciting events in our lives when you are not physically here but I feel you everyday in my heart. I cant wait to have this baby and share all the wonderful stories about their amazing grandfather. Please watch over your first grandchild love and miss you always
Year 4: Climbing for you, LT. Rest easy.
Tim Holtzclaw
September 11, 2018
Cecilia Cox
September 11, 2018
Every Second, Every Minute, Every Morning and Every Night, this pain and the feeling of being lost is there.
Every Year I still try to find a reason, understanding, closure.
They say time heals all wounds, but this one still kills 17yrs later.
This day never gets easier, not in the slightest bit.
The thought that one day I will see My Uncle Kenny again, is the Only Hope I hold on and keep close to My Heart.
Uncle Kenny, I always have you in my pocket everyday I walk those jail hallways. I wear my mourning ban every day on my shield that's over my heart. I know you watch over me as my Guardian Angel in there and keep me safe.
I will never Let Go, I Will Always Remember.
You will Always be Remembered as the Angel and Hero You Truly Are.
I am Honored to be Your Niece and Blessed to have had You as a Uncle.
-Love Always & Forever
Your Niece Cecilia
Tim Holtzclaw
September 10, 2018
Fourth year in-a-row climbing for you, Kenny! I share all of the stories I've read about you and do my best to never let your memory be forgotten. I will continue to pray for peace in the hearts of your wife and children, and in those of your brothers and sisters in the FDNY and NYPD. Until next year Lieutenant: please rest easy, we've got it from here...
February 5, 2018
Missing you, it never seems to get easier. Need you now more than ever.
3rd Annual Wichita,KS Memorial Stair Climb: 9/9/17
Tim Holtzclaw
October 22, 2017
Last month, I completed my third year in a row of climbing in your honor, Mr. Phelan. My children and family stood witness to your ultimate sacrifice, and you will never be forgotten! As long as I am able, I will continue to climb in your memory. Rest easy, and God bless you Brother...
October 20, 2017
Tomorrow is the big day! You've missed so many milestones in my life but tomorrow will most definitely hurt the most. I know I'll get thru the day but I wish everyday I just had one more moment with you. I love you forever and always.
Cecilia
July 22, 2017
Love & Miss You Uncle Kenny.
I'm always thinking about you and have you in my back pocket at work. I know your protecting me from all the harm in these jails.
I'll Love you Always and Forever
-Your Niece Cecilia C.
S.J. Friscia III
June 11, 2017
In Memory with
Honor & Respect.
Bill S
September 11, 2016
God bless you Buddy.
Stephen Phelan
September 11, 2016
Thank you Ken !! Phelan's all over this great nation are with you and your family every day in our hearts and prayers!
Kathy
September 9, 2016
In Remembrance, Thank you for your service and sacrifice!!
Tim Holtzclaw Wakarusa FD
September 8, 2016
I will be climbing for the second year in a row, on Saturday, for Kenny Phelan in the Wichita Memorial Stair Climb. It is an honor to wear his face on my back and I pray for his family and loved ones during this tough time of year. I will walk with strength and focus, never forgetting who I am walking for.
Thank you, Lt. Phelan for your serivce to your city and family. Rest easy brother, we've got it from here.
Terri Doherty (Miss Murphy OLH)
September 11, 2015
Thinking about the Phelan family today. I brought a bunch of FDNY and NYPD shirts to school today for some of my students to wear (in Houston). I told them about Kenny and some of the others. Hoping you are all doing well.
Kelly K
September 10, 2015
I'm currently enrolled in a Fire Academy at my high school and we were given a fallen hero's name today in class to research. I was given the honor to write about Lt. Kenneth Phelan and I'm so grateful to have this opportunity. Lt. Phelan is such an inspiration to the entire Firefighting community.
Erin Phelan
June 21, 2015
Happy Father's Day!! I can't even say I miss you because that's truly and understatement.. Life has just never been the same with you. I love you so much forever and always!
Patricia Phelan
March 29, 2015
Thank You!!!!!!:)))))))
March 27, 2015
I wear a paracode bracelet with Lt. Kenneth Phelan's name on it. I wanted to find one of a fellow firefighter that was my age. I feel that by wearing this daily, I take Lt with me where ever I go
John Szczech
October 28, 2014
ALWAYS REMEMBER , NEVER FORGET !!!!!
PATTY PHELAN
September 15, 2014
THANK YOU AND YOUR FAMILY - WE CONTINUE TO LIVE OUR LIVES THE BEST WE CAN :)))))))
Cheryl Hahn
September 14, 2014
My son was so proud to hold his picture during the Tunnel to Towers Memorial Run in Savannah, Ga in honor of the firefighters who lost their lives during 9-11. We will never forget. My Dad is a retired Fire Chief from Syracuse, NY
jimmy mcmonagle
September 10, 2014
KENNY, I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU LAUGHED AT MY HORRIBLE JOKES WHEN WE WERE IN MSTF. REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND.
September 10, 2014
R.I.P Kenny Great times in MSTF you are missed
Watch over us.Prayers to your family
Charlie Fitzgerald MSTF Retired
Doreen T
September 10, 2014
Rest in peace Kenny.
September 10, 2014
Thanks Bill - remember you well :))))))
Kim - remembers her father's cop friends and still they keep in touch - see Jimmy O - all the time:)
September 9, 2014
Hi Patty
It's Bill S. And I think it's awesome your daughter followed Kenny's foot steps!
Patty Phelan-Byrnes
September 8, 2014
Wondering who sent that beautiful message ?
Kim, our daughter is a NYPD officer now :)))))
September 7, 2014
Hey "Old School"
I think about you often and the times we spent as rookies in the NYPD.For anyone who didn't know Kenny, he was truly a man that a friend could trust and a young person could look up to and respect. With your passing, the world lost a true mentor as did hundreds of young New Yorkers.
I've been retired now a couple of years and will always treasure the good times we had in that radio car many years ago.
God Bless you buddy …..
Dawn Oberheim
September 6, 2014
Patty and family~This morning in Oklahoma City, my brother, Ljay Geist (a fireman in Elk City, OK), ran 110 stories in full fire fighting gear in honor of your husband and father. While my brother was running I remained in constant prayer for his strength to carry on and run beyond the hurt. But I also prayed for your husband and your family. I thanked God for planting in Kenneth a servant's heart. I will never forget his sacrifice. I pray God hold you and your family near and dear as another anniversary draws near.
Blessings,
Dawn Geist-Oberheim
Patty
June 19, 2014
Protect and watch over us all because there is evil in the world:(
Men and women fighting to protect our country - and the battle never ends so I say cherish every day and be thankful for what you have and do not dwell on unimportant matters:)
Cecilia Cox
June 18, 2014
Uncle Kenny,
You are always on my mind, every second I breath. Everyone once in a while I come onto this site and see people from around the country leaving amazing and beautiful messages. I hope you realize how much you have impacted myself and others. Whether they knew you personally or not. You are truly a Blessing, Hero and Angel. I know your looking down on myself and the family. We Love You and Miss You Uncle Kenny.
-Love Your Niece Cecilia Cox
Erin Phelan
September 16, 2013
Reading messages from all across the states running stairs in honor of my father. My father is a hero but you guys are those active everyday heroes. I commend your true heroism and patriotism for this country. It's lovely to read messages of extrodinary people like yourselves who haven't forgotten. Lord knows I haven't. Thanks and my prayers are with the men and women who keep doing their everyday jobs with honor and integrity. we need more people out in the world like this. God bless and stay safe.
M sanders
September 12, 2013
I just woke up and thought of you and what you will always mean.
Jason Switzer
September 11, 2013
I climbed 110 stories of stairs today in honor of this fallen hero. A true hero, may he rest in peace.
September 10, 2013
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Richard Adkins
September 9, 2013
I am honored to have represented Lt Phelan for the Dallas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. God bless you and your family.
Rodney Gragg
September 8, 2013
Sat. September 7th 2013 I registerd in at the Charllote Memorial Stair Climb to honor those who have fallen, I was Issued Lt. Phelan's Tag to carry on my gear. While climbing to the top of 110 stories my thoughts and heart bled out for the name of the Lt. I was carrying, when my knees started Hurting and my pack seemed heavy I would look down at his picture and he immediatly became and inspiration to me, a total stranger that so many miss has a place in my heart. It was a Honor to climb for Lt. Phelan and so many others that have fallen.
June 18, 2013
Show me a sign that you are still here with us.
May 17, 2013
YES - I WILL HELP YOU LAUREN
----- -----
April 18, 2013
Lonely for 12 years and counting
October 31, 2012
Thanks for keeping everyone safe. Love you :)
Patty Phelan
September 8, 2012
I will always love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Patty
Patricia Phelan-Byrnes
September 8, 2012
I will always love you!
Some day we will be together
again, but right now I am needed
to be a mother and father to our
beautiful children:
Kimberly Rose Phelan
Erin Frances Phelan
Daniel Thomas Phelan
Kenneth John Phelan Jr..
Each year the pain remains
and the tears flow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love Your Wife Forever,
Patty
XOXO
Cecilia Cox
August 28, 2012
Thought about You this Morning like Every Morning I wake up.
Love You Uncle Kenny <3
May 4, 2012
Send me someone to fill this hole in my heart that gets bigger everyday.
Cecilia Cox
March 23, 2012
I don't know what came over me,
But maybe it was you.
I got the chills and just out of nowhere i said i was going to Google you name.
I typed it in and pressed enter.
Then this website came up and i read all of the beautiful things everyone was writing about you.
And one made me stop right in my tracks.
It's a letter written by "your baby girl".
She made me cry with her words.
I know your looking down on them and Aunt Patty.
Like she said, it never seems to get easer.
You are deeply and truly missed Uncle Kenny.
And i know that we will meet again one day, up they're in heaven.
I feel so blessed to have you as an uncle and I'm so happy i have amazing memories to look back on. Uncle Kenny, you are a true hero and a true angel.
And you will always and forever are in my heart and soul.
I Love & Miss You Uncle Kenny.
Cecilia
Bill Schnell
December 15, 2011
One of the saddest days of my life was the day I phoned the toll free number the NYFD set up for those inquiring about 911 firefighters.I couldn't speak when I was told my buddy was "missing"!Ken and I were rookie police officers together in the nypd and then went on to become partners for about a year in the Tactical Patrol Unit.We had a blast working together! Kenny had an awesome sense of humor and never let things bother him, never took the job too seriously.
We both moved on,Kenny to the FD and me to a different police jurisdiction.Years later, while at my son's football game,I notice that a team mate of my son has the the name PHELAN on the back of his jersey.Small world,turns out the boy is Kenny's nephew!I can't help but wonder if my buddy had something to do with putting them on the same team.
Kenny was an "old-school", terrific guy.Mom and dad did a super job raising him.To kenny's family, he spoke of you often and loved you very much. God Bless You Pal........
October 18, 2011
Dear Daddy,
Since I can't say this to you in person, I thought I would write to you in this message. Well ten years have passed and I moved into the old house. I am remodeling your old bedroom and trying to make it more of my own. All I think about is how you should be here. Helping me paint, telling me what I am doing wrong, and making me smile when I make a mistake. I miss you and after ten years it never seems to get easier. Well I hope you are proud of me and and miss me just as much as I miss you. Don't worry about Kim, Danny, and Kenny I always make sure we stick together. We love you!
And remember SMILE GOD LOVES YOU! :)
Love always,
Your baby girl
Carrie Click
September 11, 2011
This evening, the Aspen Volunteer Fire Department here in Colorado hosted a documentary screening about 9/11, and 343 roses were in the lobby for attendees, with a photo and name attached to each one, of a firefighter lost at the WTC. I chose Lt. Phelan's. I am moved to learn about him, his family, and what a meaningful life he led. We will never forget.
Bill Pratt
September 11, 2011
As a firefighter in Florida I never personally knew Lt. Phelan. When responders all over the nation wanted to come to help the mayor requested people to attend funerals. His funeral was the one we attended. It was an experience I will never forget. I can only assume that it was his son in the procession that walked with his helmet in hand. My heart goes out to the family and wish everyone the best.
Michael Phelan
September 10, 2011
He sounds like a man that all Phelans should be proud of for his sacrifice and sense of duty.
dean rozanski
September 10, 2011
Kenneth Phelan was my basketball coach when i was 10. I came to realize that he wasn't getting paid for it. So why did he do it? Out of the goodness of his heart. He was a stand up guy. Its not what you do, its what you do when no ones around that makes you a stand up guy. Love, Dean Rozanski.
Tanya Salazar
September 9, 2011
For the past 9 year i've had a flag in my living room and on that flag it had a name..a name of someone i've never met but wish I could of. That name is Lt. Kenneth John Phelan age 41 New York, N.Y World Trade Center. I pray for your friends and family that lost you but you have never been forgotten. May u rest in paradise. God bless
Michael O'Connor
September 3, 2011
Kenny and i were in the N.Y.P.D. together and worked in the Manhattan South Task Force. He was one of my best friends. We both left the P.D. at about the same time, me to pursue a career as an attorney Kenny to go the F.D. I can say honestly his death has affected me every single day of my life. I pray for your family every day.
Kevin Gross
September 2, 2011
Our Nation will shortly gather in remembrance of our fallen heroes. Kenny, I remember you from New Hyde Park. Your photo should be placed in the dictionary under the word Integrity. We are about to reflect back ten years, your Nation will remember our fallen Firefighters on this day and honor your name at the memorial on ground zero. May God comfort your family and pour his Holy Spirit upon them, that they can continue in life, knowing your with our Savior, we shall all be together one day as God promised. Thank you for your brave efforts, and the lives you have saved.
Lynn Phelan
August 14, 2011
Ten years ago I read the article in our local newspaper about Lenard loosing his brother Kenneth in 9/11. I live north of San Francisco CA. I know so many lost their lives, but Lenard & Kenneth stood out. Because my last name is Phelan.
One of the saddest sickest days I ever remember. Hope they (the deceased) all are in a better place.
Steven Lee
July 21, 2011
I climbed 110 stories today in honor of the fallen firefighters of 9/11. Every participant carried a card around their neck of a lost brother. Mine was Lt. Kenneth Phelan. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family sir. Thank you for your most ultimate sacrifice and may you live happily in the wonderful kingdom of our lord, forever. RIP
-Steven K Lee- Firefighter- Baltimore, MD
April 12, 2011
r i p sweetheart.
Emily Reeves
June 5, 2010
I recently took a visit to the 9/11 Memorial, and they sold these bracelets with the name of one of the many who bravely lost their lives that tragic day. The one I received says, "Lt. Kenneth Phelan, 9/11/01 WTC FDNY". I did not have the honor of knowing you, Ken, but you and your family will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for everything you have done.
JoAnn Scifo
September 10, 2009
Although I never had the privilege of meeting Ken, I worked with his sister, Fran. He is truly a hero and we're all very grateful for his bravery. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
Vanie & Winnie
September 9, 2009
To Danny and family,
We're sorry we never had the privilege to meet such a courageous man as your father. We're blessed to know that a man like your father walked among us in this world. We're so proud of the strength that you continue to have each day. We just want to let you know that we recognize that your father is a true hero and even though we never met him personally we admire his bravery and selflessness. We're always going to be here for you and we'll keep your father in our hearts.
Winnie & Vanie
connie lafauce
September 7, 2009
I wish I could have met you but you raised a wonderful family and they miss you very much. Watch over them and tell my grandfather i said hi. I will meet you one day!
Doug Abraham
June 27, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Sharon Whelan
September 14, 2008
Phelan Family,
Hello just checking in again. Another anniversary has passed and as usual I always think of that day. A day When so many lost. I always think about my fallen brothers and sisters. It makes me sad to think about it however so many have given thier lives in a very noble pursuit. I have in the last 6 months had a couple of close calls within which all the safety guidelines imposed after that day have helped. That day had some very far reaching effects that are still felt to this day.
As Always in My thoughts and prayers.
Sharon
September 12, 2008
In memory. God bless your family
Jennifer Horan
July 23, 2008
June 23, 2008
I wanted to share some of my thoughts about My Uncle Kenny. Uncle Kenny was an incredible, good-hearted person. He gave so much of himself to his family and his friends. I think of him often, and the shock of 9/11 and that "MY UNCLE" died in that horrific day ,never will I forget him. I have special memories of going up to Killington Vermont one winter, when My Aunt Patricia and Uncle kenny took me skiing for the first time. I remember all our christmas dinners together and our conversations. I miss him here with us, but in my heart I know he is in a better place. And in my saddest moments , I revisit My Uncle Kenny in my prayers and remember how bright and happy he spent his days. I thank God that he was a part of my life and he will always live in my memories. Uncle Kenny, I will always miss you...your neice.. Jennifer Horan
Doug Abraham
June 27, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Sharon Whelan
November 11, 2007
Dear Phelan Family,
We have never met, yet our name are similar. I too am a firefighter and a volunteer firefighter at that. Our goal when we go out on a call if for all firefighters to come back safely. Yet that did not happen on 9/11/2001. Everyone who lost their lives that day are in my prayers and thoughts every single day. Especially when I respond to a call at my fire dept. Every single time that I repsond to a call I wonder what would have any of the New York city firefighters do. When we lost them and the firefighters in S.C. it tore a hole in our family's hearts. God Bless You! Many thoughts are with you.
Denise Bradish (Horan)
September 11, 2007
Hi Patty, I want you to know you n the family are always in my thoughts n prayers. Stay strong Love Denise n family xoxoxo
Lavinia Koutsouradis
September 11, 2007
Lt. Phelan's wife was my 4th grade teacher at St. Matthias Catholic school and I remember him coming in to our class one day so we could meet him.
Glenda Pollack
September 11, 2007
I'm wearing the cap that your family gave me tomorrow. The one that is embroidered with Engine 217 (Bed-Stuy) in your honor. It hangs in my lounge and will continue to do so. You are all in my thoughts.
Doug Abraham
June 27, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
P Tabbernor
February 1, 2007
In remembrance....
Chris Phelan
January 18, 2007
Phelan Family,
Although we're not related to my knowledge, the sacrifice your family has made touched me deeply. Maybe it is because a large part of my family in NYC are in the Fire and Police Departments, maybe it's the same name connection. My heart goes out to your family, and although I make this entry in 2007 please know that your family and all the families who lost loved ones that day have been in my families prayers since that day.
Kristine
January 4, 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.
Marylin Beasley
October 31, 2005
I stitched two squares for the Memorial Flag Project; One for one of my Eagle Scouts of Troop 40, David Suarez and the other one for your Kenneth. It was an honor to do so. With each stitch was said a prayer. The entire Phelan Family made the ultimate sacriface that day. Know that his star shines brightly in heaven. I have photocopied his piece and have had it framed; just need a mailing address [Firehouse perhaps].
m nolan
September 9, 2005
We passed your house today, and stopped so we could show our 5 year old your house, and tell him that a hero once lived there. God Bless you and your family on this anniversary.
m nolan
September 9, 2004
I pass your home everyday and say a little prayer for your family. God bless you and your loved ones,
Carole Gelinas
November 6, 2002
Dear Patty,
I just learned yesterday of your loss. From as far back as I can remember you were holding hands with Kenny, walking around the old neighborhood. The two of you looked so contented and happy.
I am so very sorry for your loss. Your husband was a true hero to all of those who knew him. I'm sure you are reminded of him every day when you look into the eyes of your children.
Heaven is such a mystery. Kenny was lucky to have had his own "heaven on earth" with you, and now, with God.
I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.
With love,
Carole (Buddenhagen) Gelinas
Joseph Gannascoli
September 15, 2002
Though I was friends with your brother Lenny, I spent numerous hours at your house playing strat-o-matic baseball and Wiffel Ball with Lenny and Kenny from across the street while growing up in Maspeth, NY.
Those days are truley missed and so will you.
My Deepest sympathy to your family.
Joe Gannascoli
vicki phelan
September 12, 2002
DEAR PHELAN FAMILY,
WE HAVE NEVER MET BUT SHARE THE SAME LAST NAME. MY FAMILY IS ALSO THE THE LINE OF TO PROTECT AND TO SERVE. MY FAMILY AND I WILL ALWAYS THINK ABOUT YOU AND YOURS. MAY GOD BLESS AND BE IN YOUR HEARTS.
VICKI AND MISTY PHELAN
Louis Carbone
September 11, 2002
I'll never forget my friend from around the corner. We grew up a block apart but since your backyard ended where my community driveway began it always seemed as if you were a next door neighbor. Walking to Our Lady of Hope School always meant bumping into you along the way.
Though you were a year older than I and we each had our own circle of friends, I always felt we were friends just by nature of the proximity of the homes we grew up in. We spoke on many occasions, you in your yard and me down below in the community drive. It was great reconnecting with you later on in our lives when I met up with you at PS128 on open school day and finding out that your children and mine went to the same school. Just like their Dad's.
We will all miss your gentle nature and kind heart, and your warm smile will be missed. Thank you for your friendship. Thank you for your dedication to us all in giving the ultimate sacrifice. We will never forget you. My prayers go out to your family. May they find stregnth in the faith that kept you strong.
karen boyle
September 9, 2002
KENNY YOU ARE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS> TRICIA AND CHILDREN MAY GOD WATCH OVER YOU.LOVE YOUR COUSIN KAREN and children
Eileen Mullahey
September 8, 2002
In a few days, it will be the one year anniversary of the terrible tragedy of our great nation.
Let us never forget all who have lost their lives that day. Let us stay united as we were from that day on & pray for God to Bless all of us and all the families who lost their loved ones on that day.
Lt. Kenneth Phelan, God Bless You, we will never forget you. Rest in peace.
Dan Comperiati
August 22, 2002
Dear Phelan Family,
It's been almost a year now and I want you to know that you have all been in my thoughts and prayers. I remember Kenny from when we were growing up and will never forget his smile.
May God bless you all.
Love,
Dan
Doris Vergona
May 19, 2002
Dedicated to my cousin Tree in honor of her husband Kenny.
Though it was my fate,
to lose my life on Earth that day.
There is nothing to fear.
Please dry your every tear.
My new eternal life is beautiful here.
Though I never wanted to leave,
For I thought I still had much to achieve,
Well, I do;
My new duty is to watch over you and others,
to guide and protect all of my sisters and brothers.
Well it's time for me to start my life anew.
That is also what I want you to do.
I know you are feeling sadness,
For Goodbye we had not said.
Please turn the sadness
into gladness instead.
For close to you I will always be.
One day we will be
Together again You and Me.
Copyright ©2001 Doris Vergona
In Loving Memory of my cousin, Lt. Kenneth phelan and all who were lost September 11,2001
Angie Campbell
May 9, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Eileen Mullahey
May 3, 2002
Kenny was an all around fun guy, he was a devoted dad, loving husband,cherished son & son-in-law. Whenever we went to functions, the best place to sit was @ Kennys table. He is dearly missed by all who knew & loved him. I know all of this about Kenny, because he was married to my cousin Patty. God bless you & your family. we pray for u each & everyday. You were a hero, long before 9/11. We love & miss you. Love, Eileen, Mike, Tim & Meagan
March 25, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO..LT.KENNETH J.PHELAN AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE AND LOVING CHILDREN...FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE..PRAY..AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK FOREVER..MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Barbara A. Conrad
March 24, 2002
I never knew Ken, but I do know his dad, Dan. We are friendly adversaries who attend arbitration hearings on behalf of our employers.
The first time I saw Dan after my lengthy absence for cancer treatment, he hugged me and greeted me with only my troubles in mind. I was not yet aware of his loss.
Dan spoke of Ken in a way that comforted all who were present. He said that firemen carry a light to lead the way out from danger. He said Ken is still leading us now.
I believe those words, and follow Ken's guiding light every day.
Mark Phelan
March 18, 2002
Dear Phelan Family,
I have never met you but we share a name. I was staggered looking through the list of the names of those who died on September 11th and was struck by the number of Irish names and the fact that so many of them were firemen and policemen....it came as little surprise then to see a Phelan numbered among the thousands who died on that fateful day.
I am so sorry for your loss and words are inadequate to express how I feel about what happened on that day. I hope that you have managed to take some comfort from the fact that your lost loved one was a heroic and selfless man and I am sure that where he is now, he would no want to swap places with any of us.
You are in my thoughts and prayers,
Mark Phelan
Yvonne Cooney-Monroe
March 11, 2002
Dear Phelan Family:
I had the pleasure of meeting three of your four kids in Phoenix, AZ when they attended the first World Series game accompanied by their Uncle, Lenny. My parents had arranged that trip for you, and they truly enjoyed treating you that weekend. It was such a pleasure to meet you. You all have such a wonderful spirit. I wish I could have met the whole family but maybe in time that can happen. I hope you all are hanging in there & that each day brings new light & hope. Your children are the seed that Kenny left behind. I believe he is watching down on you all each and every second of every day. God Bless you! Until next time...
Yvonne Cooney-Monroe
SUSAN HORNEK
March 10, 2002
Dear Marion...
So sorry about Kenny.. MY WORDS CAN'T EXPRESS MY SORROW FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY..I WAS AT THE MEMORIAL SERVICE ..SORRY I DIDN'T GET TO SEE YOU THAT DAY... KENNY WAS A HERO!!!
HE DIED SERVING HIS COUNTRY!!!!! THANK YOU KENNY!!!
A picture of me scoring my second goal of the Olympics.
Julie Chu
March 10, 2002
Dear Phelan Family and Friends,
My name is Julie Chu and I was a member of the 2002 US Women's Olympic Ice Hockey Team. While at the Olympics each athlete from the US delegation received a commemorative bracelet, and I was fortunate enough to receive Kenneth's. Each day I wear the bracelet I feel extremely honored and grateful that there are people in the world like Kenneth who have the courage and strength to protect the lives of others at the risk of their own. I am in complete awe of Kenneth, for he is a true hero. He was a hero before Sept. 11, and he's still a hero today. I am just sorry that I have taken firefighters, police officers and military personnel for granted for so long. Some say they admire me for representing the United States, but I say that I just play hockey. The ones that should be admired are those selfless people who wake up each day prepared to save lives. I wish you all the best in times to come and hope that one day I will be able to shake the hands of the friends and family of a hero.
Judy C
January 7, 2002
Dear Kenneth and Family,
I never had the pleasure to meet you but I wanted to express to you my heartfelt sorrow for your loss.
I always thought I knew what it meant to be a firefighter, but until September 11, I realized I didn't even have a clue!
Courage, honor, bravery, determination, love, compassion and self sacrifice are only a few of the words I have learned that describe a fearless firefighter.
God Bless you Kenneth, the loved ones you left behind and your fellow firefighters who persihed and for those who survived and have to carry on with sadness in their hearts.
Rest In Peace, Kenneth. I will never forget September 11, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice for someone else. I am so sorry for the loss your family has had to bear.
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Estate Settlement Guide
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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
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