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Stephen K. Tompsett
Stephen K. Tompsett
Obituary
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Stephen Tompsett Obituary
In summer, Stephen Tompsett liked to build sand castles on the beach with his 10-year-old daughter. But because he was a math whiz, his sand constructions were a bit different.
"They were elaborate sand castles with moats," said Geralyn Szuba, his sister-in-law. "And I swear, they were timed with the tides. As soon as he finished, the tides would come in and fill the moats."
Mr. Tompsett, 39, a computer scientist and vice president at the Instinet Corporation who was attending a meeting at Windows on the World on Sept. 11, was a rare combination of brilliant, easygoing and religious, she said. Raised in Australia, he came to New York 13 years ago on business, promptly fell in love -- with the city and his future wife -- and settled in.
Instinet employees celebrated when he became their boss. When he attended meetings, they could dispense with note-taking. "Stephen," Ms. Szuba said, "would remember everything verbatim." And he gave everybody the same advice: " 'Your family comes first. Then your faith. Then your job.' How often do you hear that --especially on Wall Street?"
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Matthew Kendall
September 11, 2020
Stephen was my best friend throughout our Uni days and beyond; we practically lived in each other pockets - especially from our honours years onwards. Stephen had one of the most brilliant minds I had ever encountered - diamond sharp and insightful but he was the most respectful quiet guy you would every meet. I never saw Stephen boast or even get angry, but he had a strong, resilient almost humble passion that could move mountains. Stephen was the most loyal of friends and willingly to try almost anything once - I was the mischief maker and he was a prince among men. Stephen you are sorely missed from our world. My heary felt thansk for every cherished day you walked amongst us. Matthew
Stephen O'Gallagher
September 11, 2020
Looking a Matt Kendall's photo its hard to believe we were ever that young.
It is ~35 years ago that we were all hanging out at the Madsen Building at Sydney Uni doing Comp Sci.
Scott Weber
March 8, 2019
So much time has passed and I can still remember sitting in Steve's office discussing some issues he was having with his Laptop and thinking to myself...What a great guy!. I soon was informed that he was slated to become the Head of IT for Instinet and I was so happy for him. Unfortunately, that never came to be as 9/11 took him from us. I can recall that because of my close relationship and that I lived on LI I was asked and honored to go to his home in Garden City to meet with Dorry and work on some technical issues there. He is forever missed and never forgotten. My respect for Stephen was immense. My sympathy for his family is forever and a day!
John Donachie
September 11, 2018
Thinking of and praying for you as we pass another anniversary...
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Jim Tompsett
October 2, 2016
Grieve for this loss even though did not know him. Upstate NY distant relative, Dr James Wm Tompsett. All Tompsetts thought to be descendants of Capt. Guillaume Tom'a'sett in the Battle of Hastings in 1066 AD
Tony PORTELLI
September 12, 2016
I went to school with Stephen.From Junior High to Senior High. He was a very intelligent guy and Such a sad story . His family need prayers during this sad memory
David Bullock
February 24, 2014
Stephen was one of my tutors at University. He was without doubt one of the nicest, and cleverest people I have ever had the chance learn from. Thanks.
Stu McGrath
January 13, 2014
Stephen was a colleague and friend of mine at Instinet, just yesterday, I finally got to visit the memorial and found the panel with his name. He was very well liked and respected and this tragedy was truly a loss for us all.
Robert Tompsett
March 24, 2013
A cousin that I never met.
Remembering a fellow Australian
Trish Kitas
September 17, 2011
Stephen Tompsett's name was one i heard while watching a TV programme about the rebuilding of Ground Zero and the Memorial Pools. While in New York for the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 & as a fellow Australian, my husband & I made sure we visited Stephen's name and we placed a small Australian flag to his name. To his wife Dorry and daughter Emily our sincere condolences go out to you at your loss. I took an etching of Stephen's name - and if you haven't already - i would like to forward this on to either his wife & daughter, or perhaps his family home here in Australia
September 12, 2011
Do Not Stand At My Grave And Weep
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!
Mary Frye (1932)
We are so sorry for your loss - 10 years later - still tragic, still unbelievably sad.
Catherine
September 10, 2011
From distant relatives in Australia. My mum was tompsett.
Mary and Mark Brosnan
September 11, 2010
September 11, 2010
Your legacy of love of family, faith, kindness, hard work and math and computer science lives on. Your wonderful wife, Dorry, family and friends have established a foundation that embodies your diligence, spirit and compassion for others.
Today, on September 11th , we remember you with a fondness and appreciation for who you were when you were here with us and how you continue to touch others.
Today, with the help of the Stephen K. Tompsett Memorial Fund scholarship from your foundation, our son is celebrating his 18th birthday and the gifts of the Holy Spirit at the College of the Holy Cross.
May your love, peace and faith be forever instilled in all those around us.
Thank you very much. Peace to all you continue to touch.
August 12, 2010
August 13th 2010
Nine years have gone and still we mourn his death. There will always be a hole in the family because he is no longer here to be part of the gatherings. He will always be loved.
Pat Grant, Narrandera NSW Australia
Michael Clingan
June 1, 2010
Stephen and I were in a class together around 1998.
He was one of the deepest and fastest thinkers and most passionate people I've ever met. His presence took the class, and our after hours discussions, to an incredible level.
I also loved his colorful use of the full English language! Here it is, so many years past, and I still hear his classroom comments in my head!
Many blessings to Stephen's family and friends.
Emily Tompsett
January 28, 2010
Yesterday was your birthday. It was the first one i wasn't with mom. I miss you so much, my friends here are really supportive, especially Andrew. You'd really like him.
I'm doing lots of really cool things in math and comp sci and i really wish i could talk to you about them. That'd be awesome. But i know you're here with me, looking over my shoulder. I love you and i miss you.
celie robinson
November 17, 2009
i know, reading about you, hearing about you from family, that you were a truly wonderful person and seeing all that people have said on here just concretes all of that.
although i may not have known you well during your time with us on earth, i hold comfort in knowing one day i will meet with you again and time will be immortal.
you are never forgotten
Love to both Dorry and emily
Doug Abraham
January 27, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
kristine
November 11, 2008
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.
Emily Tompsett
October 23, 2008
Once again, I happen on this guest book. I quite enjoy reading everyones entries and learning even just a little bit more about my dad. I so wish I could have known him half as well as many of the people who have signed this book. Reading your tributes to him have made my day. Many think these kind of things would make me sad, but they only make me even more happy to be his daughter.
People always tell me how like him I am and I wish I could share my likeness with him now. I wish I could talk to him about my life, but then again don't we all. It is truly an honor, in my mind, to be the daughter of Stephen K. Tompsett.
Love to all, even if I don't know you personally.
Emily Tompsett
brandy tipton
September 11, 2008
Steve--seven years later you and your family are in my thoughts. It was a pleasure and an honor working with you at Instinet.
Laurence J. Wolf
April 10, 2008
Often I think of my good friend Steve which is how after all this time I came across this guestbook. He and I worked closely together at both Dow Jones Telerate and Instinet. I consider him one of my best friends ever to this day. His warmth and intellect were both deep. While working together we agreed on almost every issue and stood together many times to get the right thing done. Our friendship was widely known and many were the times at Instinet when someone would approach me and say – hey could you run this by Steve for me? He always had a ready hand to help me as I did for him. I remember one day running into him in the subway and thanking him for a favor that he had done for me that was significant for me but trivial for him (he covered for me on some meetings so I could visit my sick grandmother who passed away a couple of months later). Taking that moment to express my gratitude even if it was "no big deal" was time and effort well invested as I have no regrets now of unfinished business with my pal Steve. My only regret is that we never got a round of golf in like we talked about so many times. Hearing of his fate at the hands of the terrorists is a moment I will never forget. Having left Instinet in 1997, I was again working where I had first met Steve, at the World Financial Center. Our offices there were right next door to each other and right across West St from the WTC. While my office was heavily damaged along with the rest of the WFC on 9/11, the building spent over $400 million to repair and we were back in less then 6 months while construction continued. Every day was a reminder of Steve. The memorials put up with his name on it let me learn his middle name for the first time! I no longer work at the WFC - but you can trust that I will never forget Steve. There are few like Steve and the world was made less when he was taken from us.
Steve, Godfrey and I bbq'ing in Harbord, Australia
Matthew Kendall
April 9, 2008
Doug Abraham
January 27, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Gigi Shanes-Hernandez
September 20, 2007
My family and I met you en route to NY from Australia on Quantas a few years back. We are Educators in LI , Westchester County and Ct. We know some of the same people in Education that come from Long Island and Ct!
Thinking of you and your daughter . Gigi and family, Rye, NY.
Daniel Sarfin
September 11, 2007
I am a proud recipient of of an award in Stephen's honor and am now in college. Just wanted to make everyone aware that i remember Stephen on this anniversary and remain extremely thankful to the Tompsett family for recognizing me with an award and i will continue to pray for them in the future.
Sutapa Chattopadhyay
September 6, 2007
Thanks Emily, for visiting this site. Your dad used to be my boss (once removed, that is, my boss's boss) but we all knew him well and liked him a whole lot. He was very proud of you. Steve was also one of the most respected people at Instinet, a very creative, energetic, honest and caring individual. It was a real privilege working for him.
Emily Tompsett
July 30, 2007
I just happened upon this guest book the other day and i read it and it makes me proud to say that Stephen K. Tompsett was my dad. Thank you to all of you who have written in this and thank you to all of you who remember him in the way he would want to be remembered, happily!
Love to all, even if i dont personally know you!
Emily
Robert Tompsett
July 8, 2007
A long lost cousin lost! :(
May Steve and I meet someday in a better place.
Robert K. Tompsett
July 3, 2007
From one Tompsett, to another. I'm sorry for your loss. Steve was your personal loss, but he was truly our nation's loss too.
Dennis Warner
April 20, 2007
Dorry
You and I were colleagues for 15 years at Telerate. In all that time I never knew you to be as happy as you were with Stephen.
I'll never forget the day Stephen and his herd of Aussies showed up in my office. I had been assigned to "manage" the joint project. I reported back that I didn't need offices for this group, but corrals. Stephen was a brilliant man, and it was a real honor to work with him and you. So many friends and colleagues were lost ithas taken me these 5 1/2 years to be able to write about it. Yours was a match made in heaven and it will be restored there.
P Tabbernor
April 2, 2007
In memory....
Sutapa Chattopadhyay
August 26, 2005
The more things change, the more they remain the same. Steve's advice to people rings true to me when I think about it even now. Especially the one about trusting people until they prove that they are not worthy of your trust. Takes a lot of courage to actually implement that one.
I miss the essence of Steve Tompsett, a whole lot.
Joan Tompsett
April 2, 2005
All Tompsetts are related, if distantly, so I just learned that we lost a family member on September 11. God bless you all.
Jim Zeoli
January 24, 2005
Hi Steve,
Samantha is writing a paper for college (yes she's in college now!) where she has to write a paper about an experience online or on the internet that is personal. She thought of writing about 9/11 and how out of the tragedy people were united and re-united because of it. I just thought you would probably find this interesting and perhaps inspire her in writing the paper, much like you have inspired her dad in his life. We miss you Steve, and we will never forget you.
Sutapa Chattopadhyay
September 10, 2004
Remembering Steve on yet another anniversary. Praying for his family to give them the strength to move past this. And I know they will.
Steve was a kind, gentle, beautiful person and I wish he hadn't been there when this happened.
Gigi Shanes-Hernandez
August 1, 2004
We met Dorry& Emily on Quantas 7/19 and learned about Stephen on our conversation back to LAX. This website is so beautiful & touching and certainly keeps your love for him alive.
The world at large shares with your pain and beauty of your love!
Gigi Shanes-Hernandez and family
Rye, New York 10580
Sutapa Chattopadhyay
September 11, 2003
My family and I still remember Steve for what he did in his short life and how he led by example. He was an extraordinary person - both very good at heart and a brilliant computer scientist.
I hope his family knows that many people around the world are thinking of him today.
Greg Naimo
September 11, 2003
I knew Steve in the mid 80's, he worked for me at Ricegrowers Cooperative, Leeton in the Riverina area of NSW Australia. He was young then, unattached and absorbed in his craft. Steve was an absolutely brilliant programmer, producing works of elegant design and utility. We often chided him that he made the rest of us look like mere mortals.
He would stay in Leeton for a few weeks at a time and being a small country town with little to do after work, we occasionally had him over for dinner. We had a young family then but he got on well with the kids and we would always have a good night. He was an easy going and affable person, but I think also a quite private person - something of a thinker.
Steve comes to mind quite often – he was very talented and just a good bloke.
It's a terrible loss to have suffered and I hope you can all somehow find a way to come to terms with it. Best wishes.
Greg Naimo
Sydney Australia.
Robert Tompsett
January 9, 2003
Dorry. The WTC tragedy affected me profoundly and I felt that even though I was on the other aside of the world I had to do something. I planted two flowering crab apple trees outside my bedroom window the next day. I then found out from later reports that Stephen was among those who were lost on the day. I didn't know Stephen but having read these tributes to him I feel a greater sadness at having not known this member of my family. He sounds like a fine and thoughtful, compassionate and caring man. My thoughts are constantly with you over the tragedy. My one thought, my one hope was that those people on the planes and in the buildings passed quickly from the pain and horror to a much safer and nicer place. You'll always carry his memory and when you see Stephen reflected in Emily you shouldn't be sad but be uplifted that you still have that part of him to love and remember. Robert
Olga Lisofski
October 2, 2002
Dear Dorry: I just wanted you to know that you, Emily and Steve are in my prayers. Though I didn't know Steve as well as I did you from our days at Telerate, just know that my heart hurts for your loss. God Be With You & Emily.
Bob Brady
September 11, 2002
They read your name today, and Anil's, and all the others
As an autumn cool front stirred up Ground Zero dust
I say I don't believe in spirits
But when that wind reached here today
I had to go outside to stand in it
And speak to you once more
To thank you for your wits and wit and honesty
And for all my good years here at Instinet
And to say farewell, again
Richard Kelman
September 11, 2002
..on this sombre day, one thinks back to those who were lost in that shocking time. I knew Steve and Dorry in the old days at Telerate and enjoyed every minute of "interacting" with them...and how well Steve could "interact"! Reading what has been written about him I'm very moved by how well he lived his too-short life. Well done, Steve..it was good to know you.
Jim Zeoli
August 28, 2002
Steve meant a great deal to me. I had the priviledge of working directly for him for 9 years at Instinet. During that time we became very good friends and I felt we always had a special connection between us. He will always remain a part of me, I think of him every single day, many times a day. He has left with me, in me, lessons and experiences I will never forget. He remains a role model for many people and I often measure myself using Steve as my yardstick. And as many others do, I still look to him for guidance on the challenges we face both at Instinet and in life without him.
Eric Ballentine
August 26, 2002
I sit here having just read the wonderful words people have written about Steve in this guest book as well as others similar and I struggle to find the right words to say. I have so many strong feelings about September 11th and Steve and Anil.
I worked with Steve for many years and worked directly for him for only a short amount of time, but was still able to learn what a truly special person he was. The things that impressed me weren't the obvious things like his technical aptitude or ability to lead. It was more subtle things you had to really pay attention to. There are a couple of instances that come to mind, one occurred when I had recently been promoted and Steve stopped by to give me encouragement and wish me success in my new role, even though he was not directly involved with my area at the time. Also, when my daughter was born, Steve went out of his way to express his happiness at this life changing event for me.
But the one moment that stands out foremost in my mind occurred the year prior to Emily's trip to Italy. A team of us had been dispatched to Bedford, MA to troubleshoot a rather elusive problem with one of our applications. While Steve was pretty much beyond the day-to-day coding at that point, this particular issue called for him to roll up his sleeves and jump into the code (some of which he had originally developed!). I remember several times during this week where Steve would get excited about diagnosing various aspects of this issue and at one point came running by the office I was using and said, "We need to meet, I think I found the smoking gun". Unfortunately he hadn't, but to see Steve, a SVP and well respected person getting excited about what he was doing was very good to see. But that's not the part of the story that left the biggest impression. That occurred when several of us went to Legal Seafood for dinner one of the nights and Steve sat back talked about beers he liked to drink (he didn't like fruity beers like I did.) And then he talked about the upcoming trip to Italy with Emily and her choir. I hope I'm recalling this correctly, but I remember Steve mentioning how Emily was the youngest member of the choir and that she had earned the right to be in the choir because of her skill. This was a couple of years prior to the birth of my daughter, yet I was still struck by the passion and love he expressed when talking about her. I wouldn't fully understand this until my daughter was born, yet it left a lasting impression on me -- A SVP and respected person teaching me what is really important in life.
I have others memories of Steve with similar themes which are too difficult to write at this time. I've recently seen the new memorial site that was established and it gave me Goosebumps to see some of the pictures of Steve enjoying life. At least those are lasting memories. To Emily and Dorry, you both have been a source of strength and resilience over the past year to so many people and I hope that I would hold up as well as you in the face of such tragedy.
Vitaliy Kantor
August 12, 2002
I worked for Steve for two years at Instinet. I NEVER had and hardly ever get a better man to work for.
He was knowledgible, intelligent, understanding and fun. His technical abilities were so high that he could see where you driving at before you even start. I heard that was also true for the boardrooms.
His (perhaps Australian) sense of humor was mixture of dry amazement of things and light self-mocking (if you know what I mean) always in extremely earnest way.
We exchanged e-mails once in a while after I left and I always remember his pride and jubilation, when he described his daughter Emili's performance at Sixtin Chapel in Rome for the Pope.
It's such a pity I didn't tell him these good words when I could.
Dorry and Emily, although nobody feel that great loss as you do, many people do feel it with you.
I do not pray. I remember. As long as we do, he's with us.
U.S, Marine
July 16, 2002
Dorry and Emily,
I am one of the Marines from 2/25 who was called to active duty. I first want to tell you how sorry I am for Steve's loss. I also want to thank you, on behalf of the 25th Marine regiment, for the letter you sent to us when we deployed. It is posted in our company area, and we all read it when we start to get a little down. It reminds us why we're here and keeps us going. You and Steve are now a part of this battalion and it is with solemn pride we go forward in his name. Good luck and God bless.
Larry Rosenberg
July 6, 2002
I worked for Hewlett-Packard when I met Steve. I thought him to be a brilliant man. He certainly was a gentleman.
Mary Oleszek
May 26, 2002
The family and friends of Stephen K. Tompsett have captured his essence -– devotion, intelligence, wit, gentleness, competence, reliability -- in their tributes to his memory. In addition to family gatherings, I used to see Stephen from time to time commuting into Penn Station as I was commuting out to Princeton in the late 1990s. As I was struggling toward my train, a smiling Stephen would pause briefly to inquire, sincerely, about how I was doing. I am comforted by the memory of his kindness and equanimity.
During the High Holidays of 2001, my husband's uncle, Michael, made a general reference to all those who were still missing in the WTC attack at a special Service of Hope held at his synagogue in Greenwich Village. For the Erev Rosh Hashanah service a few days later and again at the Yizkor Memorial Service on Yom Kippur a week later, his rabbi had everyone who knew of someone who was missing on 9/11 rise and say their name and where they were lost. Michael said Stephen's name. It took twenty minutes to go around the room; there were so many stories and so much sadness. There was not a dry eye in the house.
Stephen is deeply missed. We think of him and his family often.
May 26, 2002
Christy
May 24, 2002
Dear Dorry
I only met Steve once when I first joined Instinet 2 years ago. However, I feel I have begun to know both him and Emily since you and I have begun to work together through the conversations we have shared. When I logged onto this site and read about the sand castles, I remembered a poem. I have no idea where it came from or why I saved it, but it seems fitting to share with you:
THE TIDE RECEDES BUT LEAVES BEHIND
BRIGHT SEASHELLS ON THE SAND
THE SUN GOES DOWN BUT GENTLE WARMTH
STILL LINGERS ON THE LAND
THE MUSIC STOPS AND YET IT ECHOES ON IN SWEET REFRAINS
FOR EVERY JOY THAT PASSES, SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL REMAINS
I am thinking of you and Emily this weekend and remembering you in my prayers.
Sutapa Chattopadhyay
May 17, 2002
Steve was one of the reasons I came to work at Instinet. He was brilliant but also someone who cared very much about people. I'll never forget Steve. May his family find peace knowing that many people at Instinet cared a lot about him.
Patrick
May 15, 2002
Dear Mrs. Tompsett:
There is a memorial area set aside next to the ticket windows in Penn Station, where a photo of your husband and daughter (and a message from you) is posted, along with messages and photos of others lost on September 11th. I stop at the memorial each night, and look at the picture of Stephen and Emily before I take the railroad home. I am always moved by what I see and read there, but the picture of Stephen and Emily, and your message, stay with me long after I board the train.
I can't express all the reasons why that picture and your words have meant so much to me, but as a father, I see in that photo the love that Stephen has for Emily and the pride he takes in her. I often hope that others see me the way I see your husband in that picture.
I was thinking of that picture while online today, so I searched and found this site (and others), and was pleased to be able to find Stephen, and to learn more about him and your family. I wish I had done it sooner. Your description of Stephen has confirmed for me why that picture has been so special. Your message on this board has a link to that same photo, and I can't say I was surprised to read that the picture was taken on Father's Day.
I just wanted you and Emily to know that both of you are in my prayers, and that I (and many others) who have seen that picture in Penn Station have wondered about the man with the kind face, and the loving daughter. Thank you and Emily for sharing that picture, and for letting us know more about Stephen.
May 14, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL MAN..STEPHEN K.TOMPSETT AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA ..NEW YORK AND THE GOOD PEOPLE FROM AUSTRAILIA..MAY JESUS AND ST.STEPHEN GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
The Melfi Family
May 13, 2002
We are heartbroken over the lose of such a dynamic, selfless person. Stephen was a truly caring, sincere individual. We miss him terribly. We love and support Dorry and Emily.
Norma J Carter
May 9, 2002
Lest We Forget
He shall not grow old,
As we that are left grow old,
Age shall not weary him.
Nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun,
And in the morning,
We will remember him
Lest we forget
God bless you Stephen
James Bradford
May 8, 2002
The life of the individual only has meaning insofar as it aids in making the life of every living thing nobler and more beautiful. Life is sacred, that is to say, it is the supreme value to which all other values are subordinate.
--Albert Einstein
Living a life that adds value to others is surely the most important goal we can all aspire to attain. Stephen Tompsett lived such a life.
I met Stephen a couple of years ago through his sister-in-law, Stacey. I had the pleasure and privilege of being a guest of the Tompsetts at the shore and I really enjoyed getting to know the entire family.
Stephen was an incredibly intelligent and witty (loved his dry sense of humor!!) guy. I feel very fortunate to have been allowed the opportunity of getting to know him and his family.
What I will always remember about Stephen was how devoted and loving he was to his daughter, Emily. The eyes are the windows to the soul, so they say,and the presence of pure love in Stephen's eyes when he looked at his wife and daughter are something that I shall never forget.
Words can surely not begin to explain how saddened I am for his family.
To a brillian man, a loving man, and an unforgettable man! May you be at peace! May your family find peace. Thank you, Stephen, for all that you were and still are to those who you've loved and to those who admired you.
With my most sincere and deepest sympathies to your family,
James Bradford
Stephen and Emily Father's Day June 2001
Dorry Tompsett
May 8, 2002
In loving memory of Stephen K. Tompsett, devoted and loving husband of Dorry and father of Emily, cherished son and brother, friend,confidant, mentor and colleague, inspiration to all who knew him. Our world is empty without you. You are forever in our hearts and minds. Your strength, courage and brilliance continue to inspire us and help us to continue in this life without your gentle guiding presence. Watch over us and help us as we look forward to the day when we can be with you in heaven.
Bruce Boardman
May 8, 2002
I didn't personally know Stephen, and I never met him in this life. I am close friends with his sister in law Stacey. I have come to know Stephen becuase of the crises at the WTC and perhaps that is the greatest tribute to him that through this terrible act and his untimely death other lives have been touched in a very positive way. I have come to know that Stephen was a wonderful family man and love his wife Dorey and daughter Emily deeply. That in itself speaks profoundly of the character of this man and also tells us that he left his family a wonderful legacy because of who he was to them. I understand Stephen also was a Eurchurist minsiter in his church. Being in that same type of ministry in my church I know the profound depth of faith Stephen mush have had. I am believe that faith lifted him up in his hour of need and must have given strength to Dorey and Emily. Stacey tells me that Stephen emailed him family from the world trade center for as long as he was able. What a wonderful presence of heart he must have had. He was facing what must have been the worst crises in his life but he thought was to support and keep in touch with his family. Stephen was a real hero. He lived his life in such fullfillment, he loved his family, he loved his God, he loved his work. He gave of himself in many ways and touched many lives. There can be no greater hero in life than this. While I know that his family will be a long time in healing, I truly believe they will emerge new people who are enriched by the wonderful life Stephen shared with them. To Dorey and Emily I send my heart felt love and prayers. While I know you hurt now I also know in time you will be so changed and enriched by the man who left you so very much because of who he was. And to my friend Stacey I lift my heart, she is a person of love and courage and I am so very thankful to have her as my friend. As life goes on, I pray that God will give all of you the measure of love and understanding and peace that each of you need to continue life and live in happiness and peace and love. I truly know the legacy that Stephen has left all of you will shine and be a part of who you are forever.
Much love to all of you.
Bruce Boardman
Richmond, VA
Mary Mahoney
April 12, 2002
Seven months have passed and the memories of September 11 are still as clear as if it had happened yesterday. Stephen was much more than just one of our friends. Stephen was a superior human being with undeniable morality, dignity and humanity. We loved Stephen and always will. We love Dorry and Emily and just hope that in some small way we can help them. The sadness is overwhelming, but remember that Stephen is up there with God, still being Stephen, and I bet a few of the Saints are even trying to figure out how to measure up to him! He is missed, he is loved, he will never be forgotten.
Mary Jo & Lawrence Crane
April 6, 2002
We love you and miss you Stephen. You and Dory and little Emily are in our prayers. God bless you.
Yvonne Mulcahy
March 19, 2002
When somebody dies, a cloud turns into an angel, and flies up to tell God to put another flower on a pillow.
A bird gives the message back to
the world, and sings a silent prayer
that makes the rain cry. People dis-
appear, but they never really go away.
The spirits up there put the sun to
bed, wake up grass, and spin the
earth in dizzy circles. Sometimes you can see them dancing in a cloud during the day-time, when they're supposed to be sleeping. They paint the rainbows and also the sunsets and make waves splash and tug at the tide.
They toss shooting stars and listen to wishes. And when they sing wind-
songs, they whisper to us, don't
miss me too much. The view is nice
and I'm doing just fine.
My thoughts & prayers are with you all. May Steve rest in peace & continue to shine down on & watch over his loving family. Farewell Steve
Warmest wishes,
Yvonne Mulcahy (Instinet)
Jean Duffy McKeever
February 17, 2002
I am so sorry to hear about Steve. He was one of the most decent people I ever had the priveledge of working with. I am sure he will be missed terribly by his family. He was a very good man.
Teresa Jahn
December 10, 2001
We are so sorry about the loss of Stephen. Everytime I see a sand castle I will think of him and the story you told us about him. 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
The Capalbos
December 4, 2001
Our hearts go out to you and your family. As months pass we hope it helps to know that you and your family are still being remembered in our thoughts and prayers.
Showing 1 - 66 of 66 results
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How to support Stephen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
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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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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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