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Donald Richard Gavagan
Donald Richard Gavagan
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Donald Gavagan Obituary
Out by their vacation house in Montauk, Donald R. Gavagan loved to go out in his Jeep for a spin by the sea. So did his 3-year-old twins, Donald and Lara, who imitated their father by scooting around in their own little motorized jeeps.
There is a new addition to the Gavagan family, Connor, who was born 52 days after the death of his father, a bond broker at Cantor Fitzgerald, and will be christened today. Mr. Gavagan's wife, Jacqueline, is not sure when she will be ready to return to their Long Island getaway. But she cherishes the photo she took of her husband and their children the weekend before Sept. 11: On a foggy beach, in the soft morning light, the twins sitting and watching their father cast his line in the surf.
Then there are the boxes of poems Mrs. Gavagan found as she was going through her husband's personal effects. Mr. Gavagan, 35, had a college degree in pharmacy and a career in finance, but he wrote poetry as well — while helping care for their small children, working long hours and renovating their new house.
One poem read:
When life's trials overwhelm you and all you have is tears,
Please remember I am here for you now and for many years.
If you ever should need me when you want to run and hide,
Know I will be waiting and standing right by your side.
"It is almost," his wife said, "as though it was his last message to me."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Anne Linnane
September 16, 2017
You were always a good humoured, well mannered and kind person, a true gentleman, with love, Anne
Nathan
November 17, 2016
Mrs. Gavagan,
I just learned of your husband watching news footage from ABC News on YouTube when you spoke with Peter Jennings.
I wanted to send my condolences and that your husband and so many others will always live in our hearts and that you will always have so many people to lean on. Hope you and your family is well!
Aidan Collins
September 11, 2016
Thinking of you this day, my friend. I never did get to have a few more beers with you. Rest in peace.
Joanna Delgado
September 10, 2015
You are thought of not just on the anniversary of 9/11.
I recently saw your family after many many years. We spoke about you and cherished the memories. You will never ever be forgotten ! Hugs !!
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Philip (Phil) Kaufman
September 15, 2013
Donald rode with me in spirit on 9-11-13 in the Million Bikers ride in DC. I was honored to have him along.
September 11, 2013
Jackie, although I haven't seen you for some years now, we always pray for you and the kids especially on these sad anniversaries. I miss my buddy, Don, and all the great times never had, but I know his spirit lives in you and the kids and I'm grateful for that. Be strong as you always are. Love, Jay Radecki
September 11, 2013
today,always,and forever we remember 9/11
I just now saw Lara sing online, absolutely beautiful!
hope you, and your beautiful children are doing as well as can be expected on this 12 year anniversary.....I cherish the day I met you and your beautiful children in Warren, NJ
always in our thoughts and prayers,
The Finger Family~ Kevin, Vicki, and Brianna
Tami Bramblett
September 10, 2012
Another sad anniversary has arrived, and I am praying for all again. I see this featured obit and feel compelled to do an extra prayer of love for the children who are in their teens now (the twins I mean) and the almost 11-yr-old. I truly hope they have been a comfort to you Mrs. Gavagen and I truly hope that in the past years you have been surrounded by love and grace and renewed hope. I CANNOT even begin to imaging the mountains you must have had to conquer over time. But know you are blessed and cared for by many you dont know as well as those whom you do.
Sandy Farris
September 12, 2011
Dear Mrs. Gavagan,
I listened to you speak to Peter Jennings 10 years ago and I've never forgotten you or your husband. I think of you ofte throughout the years, but moreso on 9/11.I hope with all my heart that you are doing well and that you can look at your children and see their father.
Sandy Farris
Meadows Place, TX
Mina, Sal & Alessandro Conte
September 11, 2011
Jackie, Donald, Lara & Connor~
Words cannot express the sadness in our hearts for all of you on this solemn day. It brought tears to our eyes to see Donald's tribute to his father on t.v. It was heartbreaking. That tragic day, the angel you lost on this earth is the angel that God gained in heaven. He will watch over you always. He would be so proud of his beautiful family.
You are in our hearts and prayers today and always.
kevin, victoria and brianna finger
September 11, 2011
May God Bless you, Jackie, and your children on this somber day. Our thoughts and prayers are with you today, and always.
kevin, victoria, and brianna finger
September 11, 2011
God Bless you, and your children on this very somber day. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Wendy Gavaghan
September 11, 2011
God Bless You and your family.
Gerri Gavagan- Abney
March 13, 2010
I remember this day all to well. I was getting ready for work when the first plane hit, complete tragedy. So sorry for your loss. When i first seen Don's name come up there on the screen I was on the phone trying to find out where my brother was on his trip. I have a brother named Donald Wayne Gavagan and he would of been 35 also at the time. Again sorry for you loss. God Bless!
Evette Rodriguez
August 19, 2009
I never met Mr. Gavagan but his wife, Jacqueline worked for the same organization I work for. Since 9/11 I've kept her and her family in my prayers, even though i can't seem to remember if we ever met. It didn't matter, even if we never met, she is still family to us. I hope that time has made it easier to deal with and that she and her children are healthy and happy. God Bless You!
Kim DeMarzo
September 11, 2007
Jackie and family,
Today and always you are in my thoughts and prayers. I will never forget Donald and what a wonderful person he was to all.. I know he left a beautiful legacy and will never be forgotten. Love always, Kim and Tommy DeMarzo and family
Michelle Turchio
September 11, 2007
Suzanne & Jackie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, as always, on this most somber day.
Donald lives on in your hearts, now and always.
Michelle & family
victoria finger
September 11, 2007
hi Jackie,
we are thinking of you on this anniversary of 9-11....hope you and your children are all well, our thoughts and prayers are with you today...we also hope you have had a great life in your/our home.. the home that was so meant for you. Take great care of yourself and know that we always think of you and we will never forget....
Love, Vicki Finger
Christine Gavagan
June 17, 2007
A few nights ago I spent many hours trying to trace my family back to Ireland where my great grandpa Gavagan came from. I didn't find much out, but I did find Donald when I typed in 'Gavagan'. I thought that maybe he could have been a distant relative, though maybe the name Gavagan is like the name 'Smith', but then it made me think, we are ALL family no matter the name we're given at birth, we are all God's children. I'm sorry that you lost him, his smile is so warm; so friendly and honest he looks in his picture. I just wanted to say that I'm thinking about you and your children, I'm sure they're Beautiful and I'm certain Donald is Very Proud of the job you are doing in raising them. Goodnight and Godbless you and your family. Love, Chrissy
Kristine
October 26, 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.
P Tabbernor
October 13, 2006
In remembrance....
Laurie
September 11, 2006
My thoughts are with you and your family today and always. I don't know what to say except that I will never forget your plea on 9-11-01 and I hope someday you will find peace and happiness again. You have three GREAT reminder of your love for Donald. His spirit lives on them.
Jane Narayan
September 11, 2006
Dear Jackie,
My dad, Naresh Narayan, worked with Donald. I met you twice. I hope you remmeber me. I just wanted to tell you, today is the fifth anniversary of 9/11th, and all of today I was thinking of you, Donald and the kids. I cried as if it suddenly hit me what happened 5 years ago. It's unimaginable what you went through and I can't help but admire you. I have not forgotten you or Donald. You were so nice and good. We moved, to Tokyo. I really do not know what to say. I'm at a loss for words. I just want to say that Donald is in our memories. He will always live on inside. I hope that you somehow remember me. I would love to hear from you and I'm sure my dad would too.
Much love and peace,
Jane
Kim DeMarzo
June 12, 2006
Dear Jacky and family,
I will always remeber Donald as a smart, happy and kind person to all. Donald was the kind of person who always took intrest in a person and he could hold a conversation with anyone. I have such wonderful memories with you guys. I know I have not spoken to you in a long time but you and your family are always in my prayers.
Joanna Delgado
September 12, 2005
Dear Suzanne and family,
4 years has passed and I wanted you to know that you and your family are still in our hearts and prayers. I listened for Donald's name yesterday at the service for all the victims and thought of all of you.
May God be with you all !
Donald, 1981
Michelle Turchio
September 12, 2004
I recently found this picture of Donald from 1981. We were outside, hanging out on the block and he was just being silly, so I took this picture of him. I think we were both about 15 years old at the time. I hope it makes you smile, as it did me.
Michelle Turchio
September 12, 2004
Suzanne & Jackie,
As always, you are in my thoughts and prayers always.
Michelle & family
Jacqueline Gavagan
July 25, 2004
Dear Lara, Donald, and Connor,
It's been almost three years since you lost your dad and I am finally getting around to putting something in this legacy journal for you (guess I have been busy with all of you) and I just want you to know that I promise to be there for you always. We are in Montauk right now and it still hurts me to listen to all your questions: where is daddy?, when is daddy coming back?, can we drive daddy's jeep?, etc. I miss your dad and I know he is still watching over us. Always remember that. Dad would be so proud of how you three have grown. Lara and Donald are now 5 1/2 and Connor is 2 1/2. I love you.
Love your mom, Jacqueline Gavagan
ANDREW CHOLEWA
December 7, 2003
DONALD, YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS EVERYDAY AND WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AS MY BEST FRIEND.
Laura Capuano
September 29, 2003
This is a message for Joseph Gavagan. We worked together for many years at Mirror Craft, and I am so sorry about your brother. Today was the first time I saw the name, and when I saw the photo--well--you look so much alike, I knew it was your brother. I didn't know him, but I will pray for him and his family. Joe, I hope you get this message, and again I'm so sorry for your loss.
Your old friend, Laura
Heather
September 11, 2003
The Gavagan Family,
Today when i had gone to school before morning announcements we were all given someones picture of someone who had died on sep 11 2001 and i was handed a picture of Donald ichard Gavagan. Even though i have never met him i knew that somehow i had. As i went on to other classes that day we had prayers before class( i go to a catholic highschool) and we all said the ame of the persons picture we were given and i almost cried just thinkin about how this man was important to your lives and was suddenly taken away from you. I just wanted to let you know that i had prayed for him and your family today and that now everytime i think about 9-11 i think about your husband, father, best friend etc. and i will keep the picture as a reminder of that day and i wish your whole family continued blessings. I hope you will see this and know that your husband or father etc. is being remembered and may god bless you.
love,
heather
George J. Iwanicki
September 11, 2003
To the Gavagan family,
I went to school with Donald from 4th through 7th grade at O.L.C. in Brooklyn. Donald had a personality that is difficult to forget.
I remember Donald as a tough kid but not a bully, I make mention of this because he stuck up for me on 1 or 2 occasions which left a positive impression of himself with me.
I'm sorry for your loss and may God be with you.
Melinda
September 11, 2003
Mrs. Gavagan, I too heard your call to Peter Jennings on the morning of 9/11/01 and was struck by the enormity of your struggle to remain calm during those horrific early hours. After hearing your plea, I got online and started searching for any information that might be on message boards, etc about sightings of your husband or his coworkers. I was disappointed to find nothing, but felt I was doing some small part to help from way down here in NC. Later that day (or the next) I was able to chat with a member of your family and was told there was still no word. Ever since 9/11/01 you and your family have been in my thoughts & prayers and I have wondered if Donald was able to make it home. I am sorry to see that he was one of the victims but I am touched that he is "always with you". That is truly beautiful and I thank you for sharing it with all of us who have been with you as well since that phonecall to the television station... Thank you.
Michelle Turchio
September 11, 2003
Suzanne, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers today.
M Rosado
December 19, 2002
I knew him briefly from our old neighborhood and also had another family friend who was there but got out (Don Q) and who also knew Donald from childhood. Everyone who knew him always said good things about him - which I remember about him, even years later.
My family and I send our prayers to his wife, his children and his family. May God give you peace within and strength always.
Jim Case
September 12, 2002
On Sunday September 8, 2002, my family pulled names of 9-11 victims from a box for the purpose of saying a prayer for them and their family. As we dug into the box, there was a hope that we would pull out the name of our loved one that was lost that day. We have been well aware that there was thousands of direct victims on that day, and countless in-direct victims, but after pulling the name of your loved one, I began to think about the loss sustained by your family and friends. In the last year, so much for us has focused on our personal loss, but after readings some of these tributes, I see that you also have lost a great deal. Please know that we have said prayers for you and have had you in our thoughts. A few years ago I lost my father unexpectedly in a tragic circumstance. In dealing with my loss and grief, I found that by looking hard for, finding and then hanging on to the things I did have in this life to be thankful for, it made it a little easier for me and gave me a little peace in a time of so many mixed emotions. I hope that this, along with our prayers, gives you and your family a certain measure of peace. We are the ones suffering, not our lost loved ones.
Charisse
September 12, 2002
Though in the days after the attacks I would hear so many personal stories on TV, through his wife's call to Peter Jennings that morning Donald Gavagan was the first victim, for me, to have a story and a family. Later I couldn't recall his last name, but I never forgot his wife's story and I spent the last year wondering if she was ok. Yesterday I saw her on TV and it was like a little gift to me to hear her story of survival this last year and to see her beautiful baby. God bless you.
Michelle Turchio
September 11, 2002
Dear Suzanne:
I can't believe it's a year already since the attack that took Donald from all of you. I remember talking with you in the days that followed and how you were grieving. I hope God has given you some comfort and peace in the time that has passed. Donald may be lost, but he will never be forgotten so long as you keep him in your heart. I continue to pray for you and your family, as well as Jackie and the children. Stay strong during these trying days and call me if you ever feel like talking. I may be miles away, but I can be there in an instant if you ever need me. You are always in my thoughts.
Hadassah Kwestel
September 9, 2002
Dear Mrs. Gavagan:
Listening to your phone conversation on the news on 9/11 emotionally connected me to Mr. Gavagan, or "Myguy" as I was unsure of his name. He was "Myguy" because he was the only person I truly wondered about and whose family I prayed for. Not a day went by that I did not think, maybe Myguy was just late for work and that he actually made it home to his family. Seeing his name in the New York Post on Sunday made me realise for the first time that Myguy had a real name and face and a family that would never see him again. I will have the Gavagan family in my thoughts and prayers for now and ALWAYS.
Rori Tolkov Goldin
September 8, 2002
I just learned today that Donald was a victim of the WTC tragedy. I knew him years ago when he worked in public relations. He was so full of life and hope. I am so sorry for yours and your children's loss. May G-d watch over all of you.
J S
September 5, 2002
Dear Mrs Gavagan,
The first news broadcast I turned on that day was your call to Peter Jennings. I too was pregnant at the time with a toddler at home. I dont know you and didnt know your husband but I prayed for you and your family that day like I had never prayed before. I wanted you to know that a year later I still pray for you and your children. Please try and stay strong we are all still behind you
Julie Hlavka
July 22, 2002
Hello. I would like you to know that I have been chosen to stitch the name of Donald Gavagan Jr. on my memorial square in a giant quilt that is being put together by some great people. They also passed along this web site so I can learn more about Donald. My thoughts are with you and your family in our prayers.
Gail Rahill
April 24, 2002
Jacqueline,
I worked with Don at Fleishman-Hillard and am saddened at his death. He was a wonderful man who always had a smile; a loyal friend; and I'm sure a beautiful husband and father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gail Anthony Rahill
Kim Tolve
April 2, 2002
Although I did not know Donald I do know his wife Jackie, the twins, Lara and Donald, and now have the honor of knowing little Connor. I know that he must have been a wonderful man because he has a wonderful family! Even though he is not with us I know that Jackie, her family, and friends will help the children know their father and keep him alive in their lives.
Maura Faughnan Allen
March 28, 2002
Dear Jacqueline,
I know it has been six months, but I just found this, and I looked for your husband's name. Like the lady who wrote in before me, I too remembered your desperate call to Peter Jennings that day, and prayed that your husband had made it out safely. I am so sorry to see that he didn't, and will continue to pray for you and your family. May God comfort you and may the smiles start returning to your faces.
Toni McCleskey
March 22, 2002
Dear Mrs. Gavagan,
I was watching the news the day you spoke to Peter Jennings live, asking if anyone knew of Donald's whereabouts. I want you to know I have never forgotten his name, Donald Gavagan; Cantor Fitzgerald. I will never forget your voice, I will never forget you had twins and was 7 mos. pregnant. Through a puddle of tears, I prayed so hard for you that day. Here we are, 6 months later, and the one name I looked for on this list was Donald's, as I never forgot it. I am deeply affected by your loss, more than you will know. My heart goes out to you and your children. I can't imagine your pain, but know that I still pray for you, and hope that God will one day heal your heart. Toni from Tampa, Fl.
COLLEEN PANARO-HIGGINS
March 13, 2002
DEAR JACKIE,
NOT A DAY GOES BY THAT I DONT THINK OF YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN.YOU KNOW THAT IF YOU NEED ME ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS CALL.GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN.
LOVE COLLEEN
COLLEEN PANARO-HIGGINS
March 13, 2002
DEAR JACKIE,
NOT A DAY GOES BY THAT I DONT THINK OF YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN.YOU KNOW THAT IF YOU NEED ME ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS CALL.GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN.
LOVE COLLEEN
Jim and Jackie Grogan
March 12, 2002
Donald's laugh and smile will always be with us. He always made his presence known and we are better for it. He made a difference.
Susan Fydrych
February 7, 2002
Suzanne and Family,
You may not remember me but we went to OLC together. My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. May his soul rest in peace.
Susan Fydrych
JOANNA DELGADO/IWACHOW
February 5, 2002
SUZANNE AND FAMILY,
EVEN THOUGH WE HAVEN'T TALKED IN YEARS, I WANTED TO SAY SORRY FOR WHAT HAPPENED. IT IS STILL UNBELEIVABLE TO ME. I CAN'T IMAGINE HOW YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FEEL.
ALWAYS KNOW THOUGH, THAT DONALD WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED.
JOANNA
January 20, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON DONALD
RICHARD GAVAGAN AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS ..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW
YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01.AMEN
Lisa Sokol
January 11, 2002
Suzanne,
I am so sorry for what happend to Donald. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Lisa and Nick Chiarchiaro
We went to Our Lady of Czestochowa with you and Donald.
Gina Leone
January 10, 2002
Gavagan family-
We are deeply saddened for your loss..You will always be in our thoughts and prayers.. May God give you all the strength to go on.
Donald brought joy and laughter to you all.. may you always think of all the good times.
Teresa Jahn
January 1, 2002
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Michelle Lamanno
December 29, 2001
I grew up with Donald and his brother, Joe, and I was in his sister's bridal party. I will always cherish the memories I have of him. May God bless his family and take good care of them. May he give them the strength to carry on.
Sarah Downes
December 20, 2001
My sincerest sympathies to the Gavagan family. Have thought,prayed and worried for you often since Sept 11th when I heard Jacqueline on CNN. Wishing you much strength, peace and finally happiness in the future.
Mitchell Matza
December 17, 2001
I started working with Donald at
Safety Drugs/Silver Rod Drugs formerly on 86th st in Brooklyn. He
was always such a warm and agreeable
person. But he knew right from wrong
and how to make the workplace a better place. He is an indelible part of my past and will never be forgotten. My heart goes out to his
family and his brother Joe. I always
knew Donnie would succeed one day.
I sure am glad of his accomplishments.
May you Donald Gavagan My old Friend Rest in peace. Amen
Mitch
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