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Joseph Grzelak Obituary
Around the firehouse, they called him Joe Knows. The chief of Battalion 48 in Brooklyn, Joseph Grzelak had been fighting fires for 28 years and memorizing trivia for even longer. During slow shifts he could be found at his computer, researching everything from home repair to bowling strategies. He was a history buff who read two newspapers a day, breezed through crossword puzzles and answered all manner of arcane questions for friends and colleagues (hence the nickname).
"We encouraged him to try out for 'Jeopardy,'" Chief Grzelak's wife, Joanne, said. "He'd watch it, and most of the time he was right on the money."
Chief Grzelak, 52, had a mathematical mind that benefited the men he supervised. "He was very rational about fighting fires," Mrs. Grzelak said. "When the younger guys would ask him how to approach a certain situation, he always came up with the best advice."
When he raced to the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, Chief Grzelak took a binder full of research he had compiled over the years about fighting high-rise fires. It was found, Mrs. Grzelak said, in his crushed car.
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 13, 2001.
BATTALION CHIEF JOSEPH GRZELAK, 52, of New York, was in a bowling alley in 1970 when he saw a woman and told his friends he would get a date with her. He did better than that #8211 the two were eventually married. Grzelak, a Vietnam veteran, began his career with the New York Fire Department in 1973. "I didn't just lose my husband that day," Joanne Grzelak said. "I lost my best friend." Grzelak had earned citations for lifesaving heroics during his career. A trivia buff, he even earned the nickname "Joe Knows" from his fellow firefighters. "He was the perfect combination of a father and a friend," said his daughter Debra Grzelak.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
David Bushlow
September 24, 2024
Joe, you know when we leave country we separate with the best of intentions to "meet again in the world."
Then it turns out God has other plans for us. You went NYFD, I went bar hopping. Before long it's been 32 years, too much work and life in general occupy our years, then BAM!!! We hear a name, see an image, and say to ourselves, "Hey, I know that guy."
Then the rest of the story comes out.
Well, Grez, I'm glad you got to live out your years doing what you liked to do, what you were meant to do.
May God bless you and keep your family, my friend.
Cpl. "Bush"
VMO-6
RVN 1967-1969
Caitlin Pierce
September 11, 2023
I had the honor of completing a 5K this weekend at Richmond International raceway, saying Joseph Grzelak's name, and ringing the bell. Thank you for your service, your commitment, and your bravery. You are not forgotten.
https://richmond.com/news/local/virginians-gather-for-9-11-memorial-stair-climb/article_ecb1243a-4f28-11ee-a775-db797c0fab3e.html
Marcin Grzelak
December 26, 2021
RIP JG
The Kindred Family
November 10, 2018
We send our continued deep sympathy to your family for your loss. With each new day may God give the needed help and comfort as you try to cope. Joe touched the lives of others both privately and publicly and will always be fondly remembered.
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Joe Perrotta
September 26, 2018
Rest In Peace Mr G !!
Laura Lanka
September 12, 2018
Yesterday we gave tribute to Chief Grzelak. Though we never met him, his memory is our connection to the grist of America and to those who gave their life unexpectedly and fully. We send our loving regards to his family and friends.
September 11, 2018
Your bravery Joe will never be forgotten.
Laura Lanka
December 16, 2017
My husband, a firefighter in Washington state, received a "Joe Knows" t-shirt many years ago. When I went to NYC this last November, I felt honored to locate Joe's name in both the Museum and Memorial. In this humble way, this extraordinary man lives on...and on. Blessings to his wife, daughters, family and friends.
Sincere regards,
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2017
Rest In Peace Mr G !!
Chris Galard
December 25, 2016
Merry Christmas dear brother, not a days goes by that I am not thinking about. Love and miss you. xoxo
Fred Crites
September 12, 2016
Yesterday we did a 9/11 Memorial walk at Disneyland in California. I had the pleasure of walking in memory of Joseph. I would like to thank him for being a hero and an inspiration to us all. May God bless his family.
JOEY PERROTTA
September 12, 2016
Rest Easy Brother !!
Patricia Byrne
September 11, 2016
Thinking of you Joe and your heroism. Thoughts to you and your family.
fdny wife
March 13, 2016
Never forget.
January 1, 2016
Happy New Year dear brother, missing & loving you every day. xoxox
Melvin Rodriguez
September 13, 2015
Hi Joe RIP l always keep you close to my heart I have told people from three different states about my hero, Jon keeps you close too he join the army and did two tours. He got some bad guys for you and everyone who couldn't protect themselves on the worst day in our history. We will never forget you your next door neighbor from Staten island NYC thank you Joe my God bless you and your family and keep them safe.
Joe Perrotta
September 12, 2015
RIP Mr Grzelak
Mitch Bitz
April 24, 2015
I did the 110 story stair climb at 2015 FDIC today in honor of the BC 48. It is an honor to climb with Joe at my side. gone but not forgotten.
Doris Perez
September 9, 2014
Will always be remembered. I never met you, but I got a bracelet with your name on it when I was helping out near Ground Zero. I always pray for you and your family!!!
September 7, 2014
Joe it's been now 13 years since you passed.
I think about you and the other 9/ll responders. Not just on a 9/11 anniversary.
I think about how your not here to be with your family.
And when my husband annoys me I think about how you should be here to annoy your wife.
My thoughts are with your family and hope they know we have not forgotten.
Sincerely,
An fdny wife
ps Chris Grzelak-Galard thank you for writing back a while ago. Your brother was very respected in the FDNY. My husband worked with your brother numerous times. Very respected.
Laura Lanka
November 23, 2013
My husband, a firefighter in Washington State, was given an FDNY t-shirt when he took our granddaughter to visit a fire station in Brooklyn. The t-shirt was in honor of Joe Grzelak. He has worn this t-shirt for many years; I have washed it and folded it; I've always thought about Joe Grzelak wondered who Joe was. Tonight, while folding the shirt, I went to look for him online. Joe Grzelak looks so kind in this photo. May Mrs. Grzelak and his daughter know that we in Washington thank their husband and father, too. Blessings.
Maria Santo Donohue
September 11, 2013
Still remembering you........God bless you, Joe.
Madeleine Deicke-Murray
September 11, 2013
Gone but never forgotten!
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2013
Sleep well Mr Grzelak
September 7, 2013
Thinking of you Joe and your family on the 12th anniversary of 9/11. You will never be forgotten. I still have the bracelet that I received shortly after 9/11 with your name on it. I asked my husband if he knew you. He said "Joe knows". Your a hero Joe and you will never be forgotten. God bless you and your family. I wish I got to meet you.
Sincerely,
An FDNY wife
Kjell Tore Rydningen
March 10, 2013
melvin rodriguez
September 11, 2012
I went back to staten lsland to see your family in 2001.when i heard my phone ring on 9/11/2001, i was watching the fire, and i knew you was there, the person on the other side of the phone told me u were missing. i drop the phone and started to cry.i was still in my wheel chair in florida.i didn't stop crying for months until they found you. i will never forget you joe, you were a yankee fan and i was a mets fan and we would look forward for baseball season. you help me with my ms. you was a great man. i look up to you and one day i will tell you that when i see u you. i pray that your family will be bless and stay strong. i will always miss you and your family. i have your picture right next to jesus and my family.i will always pray for you and your family. love always your friend and neighbor. mel rodriguez....
FF Herbert P. Hickey FDNY
September 11, 2012
Rest in Peace . Chief, The FDNY misses you
FDNY Wife
September 11, 2012
Thinking of you Joe and your heroism. We went to the Point Lookout 9/11 ceremony. We put a flag in your name. God bless you and your family.
Cathelene Nunn
September 11, 2012
My son has his copper bracelet with your name on it out and on his wrist today in remembrance of you... He wore it dilegently for many years now brings it out only on 9/11 on that day when your life ended my son chose as his career to be a paramedic... He has done that.. He made a positive come of such a negative and you are not forgotten by a once 17 year old kid you never met.. RIP and hugs and love and prayer go out to his family..
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2012
RIP Mr. Grzelak !!!
joseph quattrochi jr.
September 10, 2012
Joey was a childhood friend from port richmond when playing in the streets we could never catch him. I have fond memories. See you in heaven.
Doris Perez
July 15, 2012
I have a story, I never had the pleasure of meeting Joseph, on the days following the horrible tragedy, my girlfriend Joyce and I went to help out by giving out water, masks, gloves and socks to the ground zero workers. The first day someone handed me a bracelet with Joseph's name on it, from that they on he was my hero. For four years we would go to the 911 Memorial, and waited till they read his name, I felt for a long time that he was part of my family,, then life happens and I got busy for work and family and I didn't go anymore, but kept his bracelet on a statue of the firefighters holding the flag, is always being in a special place in my house. Last week my brother came from California with his family, he wanted to visit the memorial, of course I jumped at the chance to go. We walked in my family and I walked to the first pool, I leaned over to look at the water to my complete amazement I had my arms over his name, I was shocked! So was my husband since he always new about the bracelet. I'm writing this because I know that although we never met he was thanking me for my thoughts and prayers! I hope his family is doing ok, and my prayers have always been with them.
My name is Doris Perez, I am from Florida, New York!
God Bless you Joe!
Kristina Merrow
September 14, 2011
To the family of Joseph Grzelak: It is with great honor that I am writing this message to you in Joseph's name. I am no stranger to living with the heroes that serve our communities. My father (now retired) and brother are both Houston firefighters. In addition, my husband is a police officer and has been for the last 16 years. I know all too well the dangers and worries of living in the civil service world. I wanted you all to know that EVERY year on 9/11 my husband and I wear our bracelets that we purchased long ago adorning the name of Joseph and the date of his passing. We wear our bracelets very proud and are honored to explain the significance of them when asked by others. His courage, honor, duty and dedication are appreciated more than words can say! I wish peace and love for your family and know that he is resting in peace with the Lord!
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2011
RIP Mr. Grzelak !!
Sylvester Grzelak
September 11, 2011
We are proud to be named Grzelak. We dont have any family history I was born in Rozno poland 1938. Came to Australia 1950. Would love to have known you Joseph Grzelak!
Adam Evans
September 10, 2011
I am a firefighter in Texas that is participating in a memorial high rise stair climb tomorrow. I had the honor of drawing Mr. Grzelak's name as the man I would represent. I am truly honored.
Patti FDNY wife
September 7, 2011
I recently saw a photo of Sept 13, 2001 from Life magazine. I attached a jpg.
A note was left on a symbolic statue of the world trade center that said:
"In memory of all who gave their lives and tried to save so many."
Words can not express your sacrifice Joe.
Thinking of Joe and his family.
Chris Galard
June 19, 2011
Happy Father's Day dear brother. You are missed & loved every day.
Chris Galard
March 22, 2011
Happy Birthday, please know that we miss you & love you. You are thought about every day. You will always be in my heart. Rest in peace dear brother.
Chris Galard
December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas dear brother. You are in my thoughts & prayers every day and always in my heart. Rest in peace. Love & miss you.
Joe Perrotta
September 10, 2010
Although I never met you I just wanted to say that its an honor to be your son in law !! I'll do my best to take care of Kristie like I know you would have !! RIP Mr. Grzelak
Patricia Byrne
August 28, 2010
My thoughts are of Joe and his family with the upcoming September 11th. God Bless.
July 18, 2010
A family member doing what he loved was taken from us . he is now in good hands i can remember the fun times we had growing up and the times we came up from florida each year but the high point was when i was in viet-nam 69-70 you came to camp eagle to spend time with me NOBODY can top that 2 cousins seeing each other in a war zone you are not forgotten
Chris Galard
March 22, 2010
Happy Birthday dear brother. I think of you everyday. Rest in peace.
Love,Chris
Joseph Grzelak
March 22, 2010
Rest in peace Sir and thank you for all your hard work throughout the years. We have something incomen here and i will cheerish very much so. My name is also Joseph Grzelak. Thank you for everything.
Joseph Grzelak
Chris Galard
December 18, 2009
Thinking about you today & always. Rest in peace dear brother.
Love, Chris
Joe Perrotta
September 11, 2009
R.I.P Mr. Gzelak !!
September 4, 2009
Thinking of Joe and his family. God Bless.
Patti
FDNY Wife
Chris Galard
January 2, 2009
My thoughts & prayers are with you
everyday. Love & miss you.
Love, Chris
(Sister)
Patricia Byrne
September 11, 2008
My thoughts and prays are with your family Joe. We will never forget. My husband told me stories about you working in the firehouse. I wish I got to meet you.
Patricia Byrne
FDNY Wife
Brian Schlager
August 27, 2008
Just wanted to say that I wear a "fallen hero" bracelet everyday bearing the name of Joseph Grzelak. I am a firefighter in Utah and am honored to wear this bracelet. God Bless.
Brian Schlager
FF/Paramedic
Joanne Lanni
July 26, 2008
I am very sorry for your lose. My name is joanne lanni, formerly joanne grzelak. My grandfarther's name was Joseph as was my uncle. Your husband and father was a brave person.
Patti Byrne
May 23, 2008
Hi Kristie,
My husband, Tommy, worked with your Dad when he in was filling in as a Deputy Chief.
There was a film of the moments of 911 that Tommy saw. When your Dad was seen in the film a flow of moments came out of him. His stories about your Dad, which ended in tears of sadness that your Dad died, were of a man that was very respected and loved. Joe Knows.
At that time in Tommy's firehouse they were 911 bracelets. He brought them home. I had your Dad's name on the one I choose. After Tommy talked about him I put it on my wrist right away. I also searched the internet about your Dad. He was very special.
I have a sixteen year old and if this happened to her I would say he sees it and loved it.
Sincerely,
Patti wife of an FDNY Fireman
Kristie Grzelak
May 12, 2008
Dad,
It's been a while, just wanted to write because I have been thinking about you a lot. Miss you!!!!
Eric Grzelak
September 19, 2007
Joe was a cousin that i recently learned about. I am filled with pride that he and most of my family have served thier respective communities honorably. I do so regret the time it has taken me to be able to contact or speak to those close to joe about this. It is with a heavy heart that i learned about my cousin.
Patti Byrne
September 15, 2007
I hope Joanne, Joe's wife reads this,
This sixth anniversary for 911 my 16yr old daughter was crying when she woke up that day while trying to get ready to go to school. She still remembers and so do I. I told her we need to pray for the people that have lost a loved one. That is all we can do. I hope our prays help you.
My husband is an FDNY firefighter. He took off that day for a golf outing which he does once a year. I don't know if he would be here if he worked that day. He works in Brooklyn and his house lost many men. I thank God almost every day that he didn't work that day.
When it happened Tommy got bracelets. The one he gave me was for your husband. I asked Tommy did he know him. He said he worked in the house before he got to know your husband. But the word was if you had a question about anything.
"Joe knows Ask Joe".
We remember and we pray that you can find some way to get through life and be happy and not hurt so much missing your husband.
I was reading excerpts recently from here:
http://www.september11victims.com/september11victims/VictimInfo.asp?ID=1264
Your a dance teacher? I used to be a dancer. I don't teach it because I have no patience. lol I'm now a web designer.
If I can ever help you in any way I would like to. In anyway and if you ever need a website created for your dance teaching I would like to do that in memory of your husband. I want to help if I can.
Sincerely,
Patti Byrne
Mike
April 20, 2007
I'm a kid from St. Roch who knew and looked up to Mr. Grzelak my whole life. He was a great man who gave of himself to his family and friends.
Mike
P Tabbernor
October 27, 2006
In remembrance....
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.
Chris Galard (Sister)
November 22, 2005
Dear Joe, I miss you more and more every day. I can't believe 4 years have past since that miserable day. I feel so alone not having you, mom & dad here. You are constantly thought about. You will always be on my mind and in my heart. Love You.
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
Maria Santo Donohue
October 14, 2002
Joe was one of my neighbors when I lived on Staten Island with my family. He was a family man with a kind smile, a quick laugh and a friendly wave. His devotion to his job as a fire chief was obvious. I was deeply saddened to hear of his disappearance and death at the World Trade Center.
My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Joanne, and his two daughters.
Linda Carson
October 10, 2002
I did not have the opportunity to know Mr. Gryzlek, but did however have the priveledge to ride the express bus with his daughter Kristie. I got to know her after 9/11 and I have to tell you, not even knowing Mr. Gryzlek, I realized he was a wonderful man. To raise such a lovely girl, he could only be the best. My heart goes out to the Gryzlek family always. Kristie always remember the good times with your Dad, he is looking over you and keeping you safe.
Linda
Staten Island
Alan Knoche
October 7, 2002
My wife presented me with a gift of a memorial bracelet bearing the name of Battalion Chief Grzelak. Before attending the Fallen Firefighter Memorial Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on October 6th, I read all I could find on the internet about the Chief. At the procession, and ceremony, I was one of the thousands who made up the "Sea of Blue" honoring Chief Grzelak and the other 441 firefighters lost in the line of duty in 2001 and four others from previous years. Throughout the day I touched my memorial bracelet bearing his name. Although my heart ached for his family, I found comfort knowing their memories surely must be filled with an intense pride and love for a truly exceptional and heroic man.
Suzanne Gruber
September 22, 2002
I would like to extend my sincerest sympathy to the Grzelak family. Recently, I too received a 9-11 bracelet with Btln. Chief Grzelak's name on it. Along with the rest of the country, I was moved by the tragedy and heroism of that terrible day. It is with sadness and pride that I will wear the bracelet and remember your loved one in my prayers.
(P.S. It was interesting to learn that Joseph was a trivia buff, like myself.)
Bryan Barber
September 12, 2002
Dear Grzelak Family,Being a brother firefighter with the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department I had the honor and priviledge to represent Battalion Chief Joseph Grzelak during our Brother for Brother Memorial Service.It was a moving tribute to those that sacrificed so much for their country.Sincerly, Bryan Barber E54A Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department.
Paula Carter
September 11, 2002
I recently purchased a FDNY bracelet, similar to the POW bracelet of the Vietnam era. It arrived with Joseph Grzelak's name on it. It is an honor to wear this bracelet and to learn more about him. He is an inspiration to all of us. I wish I had an opportunity to thank him in person for all that he has provided me and given to the world....
Dan Marotta
September 11, 2002
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to the Grzelak family. We have all at some point felt the heartache of a loss, but nothing is more real than a husband or a father. I want the Grzelak family to know that Joe was viewed as a great man, a leader and a person you always wanted around.
Take this time to reflect on the good times Joe had given to us all. Realize he is looking down upon you and smiling.
Dan Marotta
Jeanette Vacca Bates
September 11, 2002
I never knew Joseph Grzelak, but my mother Joan Vacca did. I remember her speaking of him with fond memories. She also lived on Staten Island in her youth. Joseph was a true american hero. He left his footprints in the hearts of everyone whose lives he touched. I am sure there is a specal place reserved for him in heaven. May God bless him and his family. Joseph will NEVER be forgotten.
Bridy Hackett
September 10, 2002
My thoughts and prayers have been with Mr. Grzelak and his family since the day I first heard he was missing. I knew Mr. Grzelak through his daughter Debra. I remember the stories she used to tell and the just the wonderful way she spoke of him. His light and laughter was always so welcomed at the StoneHouse. His loss saddens me so very greatly. I know that my friend has lost not only a father but her best friend. Never have I seen a father and daughter so wonderfully connected. My heart goes out to you "Debbie" and the rest of the Grzelak family. You and he will forever be in my prayers.
Cathy Bagley
September 7, 2002
Dear Joanne, Debra, Kristie and all Joe's family and loved ones,
I knew Joe by his warm smile, friendly wave, and uplifting comments as he walked in and out your front door, filled with vitality and love of life. Kris, you are so right - nothing goes unnoticed. Joe brightened my life in his own way -- by being Joe Grzelak, one of the Angels Among Us.
God bless you all. You are always in my thoughts and prayers.
Your neighbor and friend,
Cathy Bagley
Nancy Conklin
September 4, 2002
Joseph I want you to know that I think about you each and every day and I am so proud of what you did in your life. You are my greatest Hero and I know that someday we will see each other again and then I will have the chance to let you know how much your bravery meant to all of us. You are in my thoughts daily, Love, Cousin Nancy
Kristie Grzelak
September 4, 2002
Dad-
It's been almost a year since that terrible day when you were taken from us. It all seems so surreal. Not a day goes by where I don't think about you and smile. Thanks for all the great memories. I know I didn't say it or show it very often, but I love everything you did for me. Nothing goes unnoticed.
Love ya!!
Kris
Joseph Grzelak
August 31, 2002
My prayers are with you and your family. My nephew, a fireman, showed me Btln.Chief Grzelak's name on the list of the firefighters lost at the WTC. It was a strange thing to see your own name on a list like that. When I spoke to my Father and Uncle about it,I was told that they had both spoken to a Joseph Grzelak From the New York City Area the year before who was doing family research. They both enjoyed their conversation with him. while they weren't sure if they were of much help to him in his search. While I'm not sure if it was the Chief that they spoke with,The Grzelak Family in the Cleveland area keep your family in our prayers.
For me the terrible actions of Sept.11 2001 will always be more personal because of this.
Ptlm. Joseph S. Grzelak #35
Brecksville Police Department
Brecksville, Ohio
Northfield Center Ohio
Jim Bailey
June 17, 2002
My deepest condolences to Joe's family. As a former Marine and current volunteer fireman, we share in a brotherhood that few will ever know. Joe made the ultimate sacrifice and he and his brother firemen shall not be forgotten!
No doubt there is a special place in Heaven for men like Joe. God Bless. Semper Fi, Marine!
Jim Bailey
USMC
HMM-162 Vietnam '63
James Monroe
June 17, 2002
Words will never be able to express the deep espirit and love that Chief Grzelak shared with those around him. While I didn't know him personally, i have served in the Marines and as a Firefighter. God will look after the angels who thought of others instead of themselves and gave there all. God bless and attend to his loved ones.
Darrell L. Asplund
June 17, 2002
SEMPER FIDELIS MARINE!
Your sacrifice and sense of honor will always be with us all!
Chuck Robbins
June 4, 2002
I was honored to serve with Joe in the Marines (VMO-1, New River, N.C. and VMO-6, Quang Tri, RVN). I firmly believe that there is a special place in Heaven for him and all of the other heroic Firefighters and Policemen who's mortal lights were extinguished by cowards during the atrocities of 911. And I'm sure that he continues to lead.
My deepest sympathy to his family.
SEMPER FI, "Sgt. Joe" !!!
Laurie Bolgrean
May 6, 2002
I received my bracelet today with BC Joseph Grzelak's name and I am honored to wear it.
Laurie Bolgrean
Ellen Robb
May 3, 2002
To Joseph's family - I send my deepest condolences. I grew up in Port Richmond and was a long-time classmate and friend of Joey's at PS 20. I was very saddened to hear of his death in the WTC. I truly thank him for his bravery that day - I lost my daughter Kristen Montanaro in the North Tower.
Angie Campbell
April 30, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Don Turno
April 24, 2002
Dear Grzelak Family,
I received my braclet today that remembers BC Grzelak. I want you to know I ware it with pride. I read BC profile on the braclet homepage and find he and I had a lot in common. I also love trivia. I amd several college degrees and am working on a Masters. Many of my friends say "I can always throw a book at it" when refering to me puting out a fire. I will ware his name with pride. I am sorry for the lose.
Chief Don Turno
Aiken County Hazmat.
Barry Noel
April 10, 2002
To the Grelak Family.
I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. There is not a day that goes by that I think of that tragic day. I am a volunteer firefighter here in PA. for 28 years. I just recieved my 911 Memorial Bracelet today with Joseph's name on it. I will be praying and thinking of you each day I look at it. God Bless.
March 26, 2002
DEAR GRZELAK FAMILY;
IN YOUR TIME OF SORROW,REMEMBER THAT
JOE,MAY BE GONE FROM THIS GOOD EARTH
BUT IN THE HEARTS THAT LOVED HIM AND KNEW HIM,HE REMAINS WITH US ALL.
GOD BLESS YOU,AND YOUR FAMILY,OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU DAILY.
GOD BLESS YOU
A FRIEND.
Bill Valentine
March 26, 2002
Your heroism will be with me when I am on duty.
Ray Bryant
March 25, 2002
May you seek comfort from God in this terrible ordeal. He will guide you till the end. God Bless you!
Fred Lobb
March 13, 2002
To the family & friends of Joseph Grzelak:
It staggers the mind to comprehend the numbers of lives collectively saved throughout the years by Chief Grzelak and the others who died trying to save other people!
I am so terribly sorry Joseph Grzelak was taken from you and the rest of us.
May God comfort you, and may the spirit and example of Chief Grzelak continually encourage us all to be better Americans and better human beings.
Fred Lobb Pasadena, California
Neal Lauro
February 13, 2002
I just wanted to take this time to promise Mr. Grzelak that I will be by his daughter Debra's side every step of the way. We miss you Joe!!
January 28, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS HERO FIREFIGHTER WHO IS PART OF HISTORY NOW AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.GOD BLESS AMERICA AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY ST.JOSEPH MEET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN..AMEN
Isaac Guttman
January 18, 2002
Dear Grzelak family and friends,
I am very sorry about Joseph passing away . Even though his body is gone I still think his spirit is with you . I am doing a project on Joseph and he was a model citzin . He helped people and he continued his education .
Sincerly ,
Isaac Guttman
Melissa Bertok
January 16, 2002
I knew Mr. Grzelak through his daughter, Debra. He was a great man and I will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Teresa Jahn
December 30, 2001
We thank Joseph for dedicating his life to saving others as a firefighter. Such a profession comes with a brave, warm and caring heart full of love for his fellow man. May Joseph's thirst for knowledge, life and love live on in those who love him and in those he has helped rescue. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Joseph. 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
Valerie Lewis
December 4, 2001
To the Family of Joseph Grzelak,
My daughter and I each purchased bands at Calvary Chapel in Fort Lauderdale. I got Joseph's. We have been praying for your family daily. Please know we will never forget...
Marti Mang
December 1, 2001
Dear Friends and Family of Joseph Grzelak,
Tonight I purchased a Mercy Band bracelet at Calvary Chapel and the one I received had Joseph's name on it. I am praying for all of you and will continue to wear the bracelet to remind me to do so every day. I am sure that you miss Joseph very much. May it help you to know that others care and are asking for God's mercy to heal your wounds.
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How to support Joseph'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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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
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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
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
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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.
Read moreWays to honor Joseph Grzelak's life and legacy
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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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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