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Charles Joseph Margiotta
Charles Joseph Margiotta
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Charles Margiotta Obituary
When he left Staten Island to attend Brown University, Chuck Margiotta told classmates that he would return to New York to become a fireman. He did just that, serving 15 years in Harlem and then the last 4 with Ladder 85 in Staten Island.
He also became a substitute teacher. A private investigator. A coach of his children's soccer and basketball teams. And he was a member of the Screen Actors Guild, winning small roles in the movies "Frequency" and "Hannibal."
"He was usually the guy who got shot," said Steve Gallira, a friend since childhood. "Nobody knows when the guy slept. We don't think he did."
Early on Sept. 11, Mr. Margiotta, 44, was returning to Staten Island after filling in for another firefighter in Brooklyn. Once he heard the news of the attacks, he turned around, caught a ride with Rescue 5 near the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and headed for the towers.
That was Chuck: all drive. Always doing the unexpected. Like becoming tight end for his high school football team when he could hardly catch a pass. Like saying unabashedly in the company of other men how he had done the right thing by marrying his wife, Norma. Mr. Gallira said, "I felt all this work he did, Chuck believed it was his obligation to life, to fill it up."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
James Griffith
September 13, 2024
9/11/24: I had the honor of carrying the name of LT. Charles Margiotta for a 9/11 remembrance 5k. Thank you for your sacrifice. I will never forget.
JT Bass - Fire Coordinator (Abbeville County, SC)
September 8, 2024
JT Bass - Fire Coordinator (Abbeville County, SC)
September 8, 2024
JT Bass - Fire Coordinator (Abbeville County, SC)
September 8, 2024
Good morning.
Just wanting to pass along to the family of Lieutenant Margiotta that we climbed yesterday in Greenville, SC for him and all who were lost on that day.
We also climbed for you.
The world needs more men like him. I was able to research him before the climb and loved reading stories about the remarkable man he was/is and how he lived. That he did so much to serve others is truly inspiring.
Wanted you to know that you are being prayed for in rural South Carolina now and in the days to come still.
Sincerely and respectfully,
JT BASS
Fire Coordinator - Abbeville County, SC Fire Service
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September 11, 2016
Thank you sir for your service, your courage and your sacrifice. You are remembered. May God bless your family with peace.
Lorrayne Matgiotta
September 11, 2016
My son, Ronnie Joseph Margiotta sent me this. He lives outside of middletolwn, n.y. I lived in n.j. Most of my life. Grew u in weehawken n.j.. My son , Dennis, now lives in ridgefield park, n.j. They knew of several people that passed on 9/11. My thoughts are with you and your family , especially today.
S J. Friscia III
August 13, 2014
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
this is my braclet
Arianna Bailey
March 19, 2012
to his family
im sorry for your loss too for i have a braclet with his name on it for a trip im going on to remember those who have died and i have charles's name on mine i'am sorry for your loss.
JORDAN H
November 28, 2011
to the Margiotta family
Im sorry for your loss. Mr. Margiotta is a true hero. I will never forget his sacrifice on 9/11. I pray for your family every night. I hope God has given you peace and comfort. Rest in peace to the hero MR. Margiotta
Clara Rood
September 13, 2011
It is and Honor to have had your service for our country. I'm not sure we were related but my Maiden name was Margiotta, was born and raised in St Louis Mo Grand Parent came over from Sicily in the early 1900.
Rashell Nicholson
September 11, 2011
I was given the honor of being given the name of Charles Joseph Margiotta while doing a tribute 91.1k bicycle remembrance ride. May God bless your family, you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Michael Margiotta
September 11, 2011
im from Ireland im 14 dont know if we are realted but im honoured to have a lat name thats the same as a hero like you may you rest in peace in heaven as they say in irish laoch fíor a true hero
Freddie Colon
August 25, 2011
Chuck, I think the last time I saw You was at the sporting goods store with Your brother, You were a friend, and A HERO I WILL ALWAYS REMEBER! Thank You for letting me be a part of Your life.
August 31, 2010
To the family:
May the consoling words from family and friends continue to strengthen you during this difficult time, and may you find comfort in the words found in the Holy Scriptures: "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."
May the wonderful memories of your loved one continue to provide a measure of comfort to you--until God's promises are fulfilled. Matthew 5:5; Psalms 37:11, 29
Ernesto Collazo
January 15, 2010
Just thinking of you on your birthday miss you!
kaila lolley
July 31, 2009
in loving memory of chuckie
September 12, 2008
In loving memory, with respect and gratitude. I will NEVER forget!
P Tabbernor
December 22, 2006
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 14, 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.
Richard & Brigitte O'Brien
September 11, 2006
Our thoughts are with you and your whole family on this, the fifth anniversary of September 11, 2001
eric lockovitch
September 6, 2006
I will be reading Chuck's name this year on 9/11. I want to understand the story behind each name I read. I know how it feels to hear their name read that day.
Jay'Quan George
August 30, 2006
I want to say to MS.Margiotta and the family God Bless you all .God has a plan for your husband and he is always wacthen you and your kids he loves you and willl alwyas be there even when you dont think his there but his there.Love Jay'Quan G God bless you all .
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
John Sinisi
September 24, 2003
Dear Margiotta Family -
I WILL NEVER FORGET HIM!
From a past teammate -
Cal Johnson
September 11, 2003
I was one of the stunt coordinators on "Hannibal" the movie, Chuck was a great friend, and a great person to have around. My prayers go out to his family and friends. He was a hero, and I consider myself very fortunate to have known him, it was a pleasure and an honor.
Rev. Stan Steadman
September 16, 2002
I received my 9-1-1 Honor Bracelet today and I'm blessed to be able to wear this band with a heroes name of Lt. Charles J. Margiotta on it. I'll never be able to express my appreciation for the life that was given so others might live.
Lt., as a fellow brother in the fire service, I'm proud to be able to wear your name daily and honor you. Thank you friend, I'll see you in the morning......John 15:13
Love In Christ,
Jennifer Helm
September 12, 2002
Yesterday, 9/11/02, I was assigned a heart badge with Chuck's name on it as I performed in the Sacramento, CA performance of the worldwide 'Rolling Requiem' memorial service. I was proud to sing in honor of his life. I felt Chuck's strength and presence as we sang a moving performance for over 1000 in the cathedral. I send blessings and love to Chuck's family and friends. I am grateful for his life.
Becky Wright
September 7, 2002
I am apparently the 5th person to be wearing Chuck's Memory bracelet and I must confess it makes me prouder than I have ever been to have this honor. When visiting ground zero I was emotionally moved to get a bracelet, just wanting in some small way to contribute something. My heart is lighter just knowing that men like Chuck Margiotta were caring enough to give the ultimate. God Bless America!!!
John Sinisi
September 6, 2002
Hi to Mike and all of the Margiotta Family -- My best memories as a high school football player were of Chuck. I was a freshman when he was a senior and Mike a junior, so we never played together. But whenever I hear the Beach Boys, or smell fresh cut grass on a playing field, I remember Chuck (and I think Charlie Stiles), walking from cabin to cabin banging that damn tin garbage can, yelling "TIME FOR BREAKFAST EVERYBODY UP!" To this day, I do that to myself sometimes to get psyched to get up in the morning, and I now do it to my kids.
Charlie sure was a character. Everyone tried to imitate that voice and that walk of his of his, that confident balls-on-your-feet kind of hop he did. But most of all, I remember how funny he was, how he could make the coaches laugh even if they were rippin pissed at us.
He was the embodiment of the Farrell Spirit, he had the heart of a Lion, and he is sorely missed by all of his teammates, past and present.
God bless the Margiotta family -
Your teammate
Mike Margiotta
August 9, 2002
For anyone who happens to visit this site to pay tribute to my brother, I want you all to know there is also a website dedicated to my brother. You can learn all about the life he lead and the many accomplishments he had in his short time with us. Visit and add your own message or memory of him at: ChuckMargiotta.com
Deborah Spaugh
August 3, 2002
I am wearing my Mercy BAND with Lt. Charles Margiotta's name. I think of him and his bravery every day that I wear it. I think of his family and want you to know he is in my prayers. I read all the previous entries and it looks like there are 4 other people also wearing his band.
Sorry for your loss to all his family and friends. What a brave man he was. I am proud to wear his band.
Kim Polumbo
June 30, 2002
Mike,
I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you. Thank you for inviting me to the dedication(unveiling) of your brothers garden. It was beautiful, the dedication as well as the garden. I am glad that you let me be a part of it. I must say once again I never knew you brother but I wish I had. I am in his website often, I read all the stories and feel as if I had known him all my life. Your brother was very much loved and just by the outcome yesterday at the dedication proves just that. Mike, please remember I am and always will be here for you. We are friends and I hope we remain friends for a very long time. You are one of the first people I started talking to when I signed on to AOL and to this day we are still chatting. You are a great person. Keep up the great work with your brothers website. Its beautiful. You and your family will remain in my heart and prayers for always. Love you !!!!! XOXOXOXOX
Your friend always,
Kim
9-11 Let us not forget all our heros and friends !!!!!
Kim (Kiwi09265)
Angela Largo
May 26, 2002
To Mike and his Family,
Time goes by so fast, I sit an remember all the great times we had at Demyens. When Mike and Chuck would come home on the weekends from college and everyone would meet at our usual spot. You were both the life of the party. Good times, good memories and friends are never forgotten!
Angela
Angie Campbell
May 6, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Beth Meske
April 13, 2002
I received my mercy band with Lt. Charles Margiotta's name today as a gift from someone I love very much who is also a Firefighter. My heart goes out to his entire family with grief, & please know that I will wear this bracelet with great pride & honor knowing that Lt. Margiotta put others before himself on Sept. 11, 2001. My thoughts & prayers will always be with Lt. Margitta's family.
Bob & Gina Cunningham
April 5, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Tom delPino
March 29, 2002
Chuck you will always live on.You've touched so many hearts.Just glad I got to know ya
Karen Durnin
March 19, 2002
Mike,
I just found this site and wanted to take the opportunity again to let you know that I am praying for you and your family. Having never met your brother, but knowing you as I do, I can only imagine the kind of man Chuck was. I keep him in my prayers. Take comfort in all the love and support people all over are showing. I miss you very much. Hope to see you and maybe even make you laugh again. Stay strong for your family. I love you.
Your friend, Karen
Ken Tirado
March 17, 2002
To the Margiotta Family:
I'll always remember him as Charlie. When I was in the second grade at P.S. 30 he was just about my best friend. I think of him often, and oddly enough, was thinking about him in the days prior to September 11. Charlie came by my restaurant and told me about all the film work he was doing. I told him that Mike D.J.'d my wedding. I had seen his name in the closing credits of the DeNiro cop film late last Summer and was telling people about my old friend, the fireman-stunt man. My thoughts are with you all. If I can be of help, if you need fund-raising gift certificates, don't hesitate to ask.
Ken Tirado
Marc Scrivener
March 12, 2002
To the family of Chuck Margiotta,
I am wearing a memorial bracelet with Chuck's name on it in his memory. I pray that you will be comforted in knowing that he is being honored in this manner. Please accept my condolences. Your family is on my mind every day as I put on the bracelet, and I often look at it while at the firehouse as a reminder of Chuck's bravery. May all of us live up to his example.
Firefighter Marc A. Scrivener
IAFF Local 1033
Willimantic, CT
Mike Kaplan ( South Old Bridge Fire Department)
March 6, 2002
To The Margiotta Family,
May you take comfort that Chuck touched many lives - including a few in New Jersey - our days of playing raquetball together will always be remembered - a great guy - and a brother fireman.
February 28, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO..CHARLES JOSEPH (CHUCK)MARGIOTTA AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS...GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY JESUS...ST.CHARLES AND ST.JOSEPH GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..AMEN
Anthony Navarino
January 28, 2002
Dear Norma,Norma Jean,Charlie and Family.
I beleive you know in your heart that many of us think of Chuck everyday, but remember we also think of you all. Anytime you need something, never hesitate to call me. CYO will certainly miss Chuck, but his kindness will live on for eternity. God Bless you all.
Tony
Kim Polumbo
January 19, 2002
Mike,
I wish there was something I could say or do to ease the pain you and your family are feeling. Although I only know you from speaking with you online, I feel as if I have known you a lifetime. You are a wonderful person. I am glad that you are my friend. You were there for me (online) when my grandmother passed away (3 years ago), and I want you to know that I am here for you whenever you need me, day or night, if even just to vent. I never met your brother but from reading all the stories on his website, I wish that I had. Its evident that he was an all around great guy. May God bless him and keep him by his side. Heaven has a very handsome Angel now who looks down upon us and keeps us safe everyday. My condolences again to you, your family and of course Chucks wife Norma and his children. God Bless you Chuck, you are sadly missed !!!!!!
Arthur Banks
January 14, 2002
I was a member of Engine 69 when Chuckie was in L-40. Him being Italian and me being Black we didn't exactly hit it off. But eventually I began to like that graveled voice and agressive nature. I saw Chuckie in the Medical Office. He talked of retirement and we hugged each other.
I miss him. He was a good man.
Louise Carpenter
January 10, 2002
I have a mercy band with Chuck's name on it, and wear it every day. Whenever I look at it, I pray for his family. I was glad to know about him and his family and friends. Now my prayers for all his loved ones can be more personal. Thank you for sharing him and his life with us. What an awesome legacy he has, he enjoyed life so much, what an inspiration. I pray God's love and mercy will strengthen you. He is one of my heros! Sincerely, L.C.
Judy C
January 7, 2002
To The Margiotta Family,
I am so sorry for the loss you have had to bear with the passing of your beloved Chuck.
The world discovered how many heroes there were on earth that September 11, and sadly your hero never returned home. I am so sorry for your loss, even though I never met you.
My thoughts and prayers will forever be with you all.
God Bless you, Chuck and all the loved ones, friends, and fellow comrades you left behind.
Rest In peace along with the fellow firefighters who made the journey to Heaven with you.
Enjoy your Angel Wings.
Mike Margiotta
January 6, 2002
I would like to thank all of you who have already paid tribute to my brother, Lt. Charles "Chuck" Margiotta. It has made us proud to read the feelings of other lives that have been touched by Chuck. He was our strength and will continue to be our guidance when we look for answers.
I would like everyone who visits this site to know that the friends and family of Chuck Margiotta have also created a website to visit, share memories, pay tribute, read articles of his accomplishments and view many pictures representing the truly unique and wonderful life he lived.
Please visit our site at www.ChuckMargiotta.com
Thanks again for everyones thoughts, prayers, and support.
Mike Margiotta
Anne-Michele Hall
January 4, 2002
Dear Michael and Patti Margiotta,
Hi, my name is Anne. I had the priviledge of meeting both of you during your neighbors' (Michele and Richie's) Christmas party last year. I am a childhood friend of Michele. I remember how wonderful it was to meet you both. I am truly sorry for the loss of your beloved brother, Chuck. I am sorry that I never had the priviledge to meet him. From all that I have read about him, I can see what a beautiful, loving, charismatic and brave person he was. I am not surprised that he belonged to the same family as yours. He is truly a heroe.
Please remember that our loved ones never leave us. They stay close within our hearts forever.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the Margiotta family.
Melissa Cicio
December 30, 2001
It's now nearly the new year and my heart and eyes still cannot believe that Chuck is not part of this world. I went to "Ground Zero" this week and let me tell you all I wished was to see him swagger out of that mess and grumble that he was tired, hungry and cold, but glad to be going home. How we miss you Chuck! How your family misses you. Everytime I see Michael my heart hurts. I was with Norma and your Mom the other day and I couldn't stop thinking how much you are needed here with them. You kids need you, the whole world misses you! You are someone that is irreplacable, to say the least. When I would see you I would inadvertendly smile, it was like the Cheshire cat, my lips would suddenly curl and I would feel a sudden sweep of happiness, just being with you. You always made me feel better, asking about Steve, really wanting to know. We were proud of all your accomplishments, seeing you on the silver screen, knowing you were here Chuck to keep us safe. Now, there is a void which we are unable to fill. I want to keep Norma, Michael, Patti and your parents going, keep them uplifted. I have your picture in my home and you remind me always that life is not a given. Your spirit is uncrushable though, there isn't a building big enough to cause that to disappear. As long as your are spoken of you will never leave us. Believe me Chuck, you will be spoken about until there are no people to speak anymore. You are so loved~Melissa
Teresa Jahn
December 23, 2001
We thank Chuck for devoting his life to help others by being a firefighter. Such devotion comes with a brave, warm and caring heart full of love for his fellow man. May his courage, life and love continue living through those who love him and in those who were helped by him. May you always feel the warmth of his love radiate into your hearts. We are very sorry for your loss of Chuck. 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
Lisa Ronneburger
December 21, 2001
The pictures of "Uncle Chucky" still grace the photo albums from my childhood. Though it's been nearly fifteen years since I last saw him, I am left with some wonderful memories - the cable commercial I made with him when he played a genie, he and my dad playing pranks on everyone on Halloween - that will live in my heart forever. WE'LL MISS YOU.
Sharon
December 9, 2001
Dear Norma, NormaJean & Charlie,
Though I never had the priviledge of meeting the man who seemed larger than life in all respects, by all that I've heard about him I feel that I have been cheated out of knowing someone truly wonderful. But, you see, I would have guessed that part, because by just knowing the 3 of you, you reflected his being all the time. Norma,of course if there is anything that we can ever do for you, you need only ask. We are just a phone call away. For all of the years that you gave me peace of mind with your care and love for Rachel, always know that it works both ways.
Susan (Brown '81) Springsteen Jamieson
November 29, 2001
Chuck was always the one to be where the action was, so he was probably one of the first ones to race up the stairs of the burning Tower.
He lived life to the fullest, and did everything with a lot of enthusiasm. My prayers are with his wife and kids (whom I have never met) that he left behind.
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