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Eric Thorpe Obituary
The booming voice, competitiveness and self-assurance that helped Eric Thorpe become the star quarterback of his undefeated high school football team in Wilbraham, Mass., served him well on Wall Street. Mr. Thorpe, 35, known as Rick, was one of the top salesmen at Keefe, Bruyette & Woods.
But Mr. Thorpe kept business success in perspective. He helped run a soup kitchen during college, served as a Big Brother and participated in Hands Together, an anti- poverty program in Haiti. Having grown up in a close family — he referred to his father, Raymond, as his best friend and called him nearly every day — Mr. Thorpe was thrilled when his wife, Linda, gave birth to their daughter, Alexis, last year.
Through it all coursed a nonstop sense of humor. Not even Mr. Thorpe's parents escaped his fondness for nicknames, and he enjoyed initiating phone calls with a disguised voice. "He teased everyone, including me," said Thomas Michaud, Mr. Thorpe's boss.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Barb Gallagher
September 14, 2024
While on a short trip to NYC, I visited the 911 memorial. I just happened to pick out a name from all of the other names listed near the pond. The name of Eric Rayment Thorpe was right in front of me. I knew I had to learn more about him, even though I did not know why. I simply needed to know more about him. My own sons were about the same age as Eric at the time and I knew it was a moment in time that I'll never forget. And I have never forgotten Eric Raymond Thorpe, a man who I never met and about whom I always think.
Barb Gallagher
Elmhurst, Illinois
September 11, 2022
I miss you
Debra Thorpe
September 13, 2020
In loving memory of my wonderful cousin Raymond Thorpe, I will always remember & Cherish our playful days when we were children.. For ever within our hearts May God bless you & your family
September 10, 2019
RIP
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Calli
September 11, 2015
I was a childhood classmate and grade school friend of Rick's. I remember the times he stood up for me when I needed a friend. I remember the 'slow melt across his face smile' that just lit up when he spoke. He was engaging, funny, charming and tall. In the later years we went to different schools and he was the star at Minnechaug. I enjoyed watching him play and how he was on top of the world in his life at that time. It's still hard to believe that he was also a part of the tragedy of 9/11. Recently one of my friends, another classmate of Rick's, went to the 9/11 Memorial. She just randomly walked up to it and looked down at the names and there was Rick. Of all the thousand names there; the first name she saw was Rick's. It's one of those fleeting life moments that give you hope and comfort in the midst of difficulty. The Thorpes are giving hope to others by providing "Rick's Place" for children who have lost a loved one. The love they have for Rick is extended to others in helping them with lost. I'm very thankful to have known Rick. God's continued love and blessings to you all.
Thomas Constantine
June 29, 2015
Rick, I'm here at Lafayette sitting on your bench, the sun is warm but this red-leaved Japanese tree is keeping the shade in place. From here I can see the lawn and all of your favorite spots on campus. Your energy is here with me, I feel you. Thanks for teaching me a little something.
Robin Daye
September 11, 2013
I didn't even know Rick, but I remember seeing his wife on CNN in the days following the attacks. I remember hearing her story of speaking to him on the phone and of his words to try to keep her calm. I remember they have a daughter. When I think of September 11, I think of this man and how he represents the thousands who left so many people who loved them behind. I'm still thinking of this family and their loss. I remember...
Vance Larimer
September 11, 2011
As I attempt to remind and explain to my four children of the tragedy that occurred 10 years ago, my thoughts always turn to Rick. I think of you often and wish so much that my family would have had the opportunity to know you. You are deeply missed by so many and will never be forgotten.
Bill Adams
September 11, 2011
Rick, I will always miss you especially on this date. But, I look at this date as just another chance to remember what a great friend, father and husband you are.
John Hyland
September 9, 2011
You were a natural leader. You impressed and charmed people like no one I've known since. I'll never forget our NCAA trip to Colgate; good times. I'll never forget you.
Jennifer
September 7, 2011
Rick we will always miss you, you gave so much in such a short time. I shed a tear for you every Sept 11th,
Thinking of you and your family on this 10 year anniversary.
September 11, 2010
Thinking of you and your family on this day - especially Linda & Alexis.
With love,
Antenisca
Art Mina
March 31, 2010
My son, Michael, sent me this link yesterday. Over the years he has heard me tell stories of the "Greatest High School Football Team of All Time." There is never a tale told without mentioning my one and only #3! I cry like a baby every Sept. 11 when I see Rick's picture on the television as they scroll through the list of victims. He made a difference to so many of us, and his life and laughter live on and always will. But, it's just not right without him. I miss all my boys from that legendary team of 1983 and I think of them often. But I miss Ricky most of all. Always,
Coach Mina
Wes Waite
February 25, 2010
It may interest you to know that my wife and I are Puppy Walkers for the TSA. Yesterday we received a precious 12 week old male Labrador Retriever. We will be raising him for the first year of his life prior to his going full time into the TSA's explosive detection program. The TSA has named him Thorpe in recognition of Eric Raymond Thorpe. I lost friends and associates then also and it gives me comfort, honor and hope to be able to give back in this small way. From what I have read here, Thorpe will have a significant reputation to live up to, and we will all see that he measures up.
Steve Pinto
September 16, 2009
Alexis,
I too am one of many of your father's friends from college. As others have written, he truly was a special person. He was blessed with intelligence, good humor and kindness especially to those less fortunate. Interestingly, he spent very little time talking about his good deeds. He understood that action speaks louder than words. He was a model to us all and we all miss him soooooooooooo much. I think about him almost every day. Since September 12, 2001 I have used 'THORPE' as my computer password typing those letters 10 to 15 times a day for eight years. I estimate that I've typed the name Thorpe about 25,000 times and every time I think of him. His memory and spirit will always be with us and I can promise you that he is looking over with the greatest care and affection that any father could possibly have for his daughter. I hope you'll take that knowledge with you where ever you go. I wish you all the best and look forward to the possibility of meeting you some day.
Dave Leyrer
September 11, 2009
Alexis-i just read Dave Myers' email, below. I lived on the same floor as Dave and your Dad during our first year of college. Your dad was the loudest (in a good way!) and most fun guy on the floor---everyone loved him. He cracked my parents up at Parent's Day that first year...he just gave them a big hug like he'd known them forever. Every time i think about or read about 9/11 i always think of Rick's booming voice and his great laugh. And also his freakish athletic ability--he was a great athlete! it's impossible to think about him without smiling. after college it was always great to hear from him...his calls would come out of nowhere and he'd just start talking in that instantly recognizable voice as if he were finishing a sentence from years before. You are very lucky to have a father like him and I'm sure he'd be very proud of you.
Doug Warden
September 11, 2009
Dear Alexis:
I’m a friend of your dad’s from when we were in college together at Lafayette and afterwards. He was a good friend. I have lots I’d like to tell you about him but nothing more important than this: You meant the world to him. Nothing in his life ever made him prouder or happier than you. You’ve got his spark in you. Carry it around with a little bounce and swagger in your step. That’s what he did.
Your friend,
Doug Warden
Tom Gillan
September 11, 2009
Alexis,
We met once before but you don't remember....you were very little (and cute as a button, I must say). I knew your daddy from our time together at Lafayette. You should know that he was one of the coolest dudes in the whole school. He really was. Everyone loved him very much. If you have his spirit in you (and I know you do) you're way ahead of the game.
Your dad was the best!!!
Dave Myers
September 11, 2009
Dear Alexis - I think about your Dad all the time, and also think about you and your Mom. I know you are as proud to be his daughter as he was proud to be your Dad. Your Dad and I were room mates and friends in college and I will always feel lucky to have known him. I miss him too. I hope to meet you some day. Your friend, Dave.
Greg
September 11, 2009
We miss you Rick and think often of you and your family, your parents, Alexis and Linda. We won't forget you or 9-11. The boys and I put up a flag this morning first thing to honor the US, your memory and the memory of the other victims.
Alexis, your dad was a great guy. He loved you very much.
Greg
Bill Orciuch
September 11, 2009
I'm always thinking of you and your family Rick. Alexis, your dad touched so many people. God bless you and your mother...
Alexis Thorpe
September 4, 2009
I made a mistake i was 11 months when my dad died.I miss him so so so so so so so so so so so so s o so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so s o so so so so so so so so so so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bill Adams
August 11, 2009
Ric, I'll never forget your friendship, laugh, verbal abuse, infliction of public embarrassment, 300 yd. drives off the tee with no practice, or the thousands of other memories that make me laugh. They broke the mold with you, and I'll never forget you. God bless.
Alexis Thorpe
June 9, 2009
He was my dad and I only was 7 months old.
Laurie
May 8, 2009
I am shocked that I am jsut now finding this out. See what happens when you lose contact with old friends. Miss you Eric :( Thanks for all your help! XXOO
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.
September 11, 2008
Ric, Its been 7 years. Seems like yesterday that we lost you. Does not seem like almost twenty since college when we laughed together daily. I think of you often, not just around 9/11. I miss you buddy.
Joanna Ranck (Stoeber)
January 14, 2008
I knew Rick from many years ago at Minnechaug. He was by far one of the most generous, outgoing and sweet guys around. When I found out that he was in one of the Towers on 9/11/01, soon after, I was crushed. Especially knowing his daughter wouldn't have the chance to get to know what great guy her dad was/would've been. I am sure, though, she has been told the many wonderful stories that so many of us were able to experience. I know I personally do not know Rick's family, but he is in my prayers along with my sisters. Really just wanted you all to know that Rick has not been forgotten.
September 11, 2007
We'll never forget you Ric. Thanks for being a great friend. Your laughter is loud and your energy strong. I know you're smiling, just in a different place.
Adrienne
April 22, 2007
We will never forget...
Tina Colgan
April 18, 2007
Eric made an impact on many when he briefly lived in the midwest (Burlinton, WI). I don't think I have known a more positive person in my life. I remember he had a poster of Robert Fulghum's "Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten" - and that's how he lived.
P Tabbernor
March 31, 2007
In remembrance....
Greg
March 31, 2007
Rick, Your friends, including me, miss you. I don't where to start. And as of yet, I won't. But we'll see you sometime, soon....& I'm confident, we'll be smiling.
Milan Pejnovich
April 7, 2006
I never knew Eric, never even heard of him until I read a New York Times article online about 911 calls made from inside the World Trade Center on September 11. But after listening to an audio clip and hearing his nearly final breaths, he will stay with me forever. Thank you for sharing that, and for sharing him. His legacy lives on and touches people in so many different, unexpected ways. Take pride and comfort in that.
Tom Gillan
May 31, 2005
Hey Pal,
Just thinking of you and wanted to say hi. I'm looking forward to the time when we meet again.
Gill
Andy Monfried
April 7, 2005
Rick -
I think about you, ALOT - especially when 9-11 comes up in any fashion. I remember playing golf with you at my brothers wedding, and how much fun you were. Your kind energy, your karma, and your love of life. I wanted to write this to you to let you know that people think about you OFTEN, and I'll never EVER forget you - and you left a massively positive impression on my being.
I know that the Lord has you in a safe spot...and that by now, you are below par on the best course in heaven.
Love,
Andy Monfried
Ginger Bove
September 11, 2003
Dear Mr and Mrs Thorpe, Susan and Art, and certainly Linda and Alexis. Today is September 11, 2003 and I am thinking of each of you, although I'm sure every day is as difficult for you as this one.
I spent a great deal of time with Rick at Lafayette and in Wilbraham with your close family. I laugh at myself because I must admit that he was truly the only reason I would ever consider going back to Lafayette for a reunion. Now that there is no chance of running into Rick or of meeting his wife and family, I don't have any desire to go back. Each time I get a piece of literature from LC it makes me think about Rick and what an intense loss so many people suffered when Rick died. When I think about Lafayette now there is a huge void. My heart goes out to Mr and Mrs Thorpe. I think about you nearly everyday because I know what an enormous part of your life Rick was. God Bless You and Continue Healing You and Your Family.
Thinking of You, Ginger Pancoast Bove
Maribel Ortiz
September 17, 2002
I had the pleasure of knowing Rick professionally, as he was a collegue of a man I worked with. No matter how bad my day was going he always made me laugh and smile, Rick would walk into a room and it would brighten instantly. He had a way about him that would put people at ease. Even in the short time that I knew him I know that Rick was everything these entries say he was and much more. Although he passed through my life breifly, he has made a lasting impression,and will be someone that I remember always. I know what you are going through as I suffered a similar loss. I rest knowing I have my personal guardian angel, as Rick is yours. May God Bless you and your family for the strength and inspiration you have passed on to others.
Tanya Falk
September 8, 2002
I remember Rick from his post-grad year at Exeter in 1984-1985. It was good to know that the other PGs were at his memorial service. I will never forget the spirit and friendship of that group.
Tracey Boyce
May 30, 2002
Just writing to let you know I am still wearing my bracelet and I still pray for your family. I think Eric's daughter must be almost ready to turn 2. These milestones are always bittersweet after the loss of someone close. But, what a beautiful legacy and an amazing miracle! I watched the closing ceremony at Ground Zero today. But, as long as one heart remembers, it will never be forgotten. Let's pray that the fear and terror and pain that gripped our nation that day, is slowly being replaced with hope and love and rememberance. God Bless you all! I know you will all be okay because of the person Eric was on this earth. You must be a strong and loving family. It may hurt, but don't the things that are important to us, bring us the most joy and pain. I am proud to wear my bracelet in honor of Eric.
May 14, 2002
OH DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL YOUNG MAN..ERIC RAYMOND THORPE AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS.GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA..NEW YORK AND THE GOOD PEOPLE FROM MASSACHUSETTS. MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Tracey Boyce
April 29, 2002
I have written before to express my sadness at the loss of such an exceptional person. I received an e-mail from Eric's sister and it made me feel so good to know that maybe my words helped if only for a second. I know that Eric's birthday just passed and I just wanted to say that I am thinking of the Thorpe family and keeping you all in my prayers.
Carrie Brandon
April 18, 2002
Hi Rick, it's been over half a year and I still think of you and Linda every day. "Alexis" is my password now. And whenever I'm in a tight spot, I sometimes grin a little bit and say to myself, "Help me out Rick," like the priest at your memorial service. See Rick, even still, you're making us chuckle. I will never, ever forget you.
Kathy Ollerton
April 2, 2002
You dont know me, my friend saw
your story on TV. I am working
with people in New York to help
heal and deal with post tramatic
stress and wanted to let you know
that the life of this young man
impacted millions of people and
we all all better human beings
because of him. His life gave
meaning to me. God hold and bless
you, I hope this message helps you
bear your loss a little lighter.
kathy
David Overton
March 21, 2002
I just found out about Rick's death today 3/20/02, and I am shocked. Rick and I went to school and played football together. What a great scholar, athelete and prankster. Rick will be greatly missed, but never never forgotten.
Dave "Hands" Overton #86
Minnechaug Regional High School Falcon Football 1981 - 1982
Tracey Boyce
March 13, 2002
My heart goes out to you and your family. Unlike many people, I was never able to feel the anger so many Americans experienced on September 11. All I felt, and still feel is a deep sense of sadness. I still cry because I know that so many have been spiritually wounded by the events of that day. I wear a bracelet with Eric's name on it. I chose his name because I have a son named Eric and his dad's name was Raymond. Eric's dad died when he was a year old in a helicopter crash in the Gulf of Mexico. He worked for an oil company. Raymond was missing for 5 days and we were not able to see him after he was recovered. My Eric is going to be 15 this year. He is a great kid and very athletic like your Eric. I will show your Eric's profile to my Eric as an inspiration to be a good person. I find it is healing when something good comes out of something really sad. Raymond sounds a lot like your Eric, too. He played ball and was very funny and liked to be with people. He was 27 when he died. I still miss him but I thank God he was in my life even if it wasn't nearly long enough. I also have a 17 year old son who was 4 when Raymond died. Talk about Eric a lot and get others to talk, too. It will be important to your daughter. I wish I would have gotten everyone who knew Raymond to write a little something about him to keep for my kids. That would be a great gift... My prayers will be with you and yours... God Bless You!
Liza Mientus
March 11, 2002
Dear Linda - it is Monday morning, March 11th. I was so grateful to see you on Paula Zahn's program this morning, because I have been wondering how you are doing. I have never met you, or Rick, but I remember, a few days after September 11th, I saw your first interview with Paula - and I have thought of you just about every day since then. Although all of the families' stories touched me deeply, there was something special about your hope, courage, and beauty - along with the pictures CNN aired that day of Rick and your baby daughter - that are indelibly on my mind. I work on Capitol Hill in Washington and was evacuated from my office that day. My family home is in southwestern Pennsylvania, and the flight that went down in Shanksville, with the heroes on board, flew over my home community minutes earlier. Seeing you, that day back in September, put into perspective for me how we all should live - your words and hope reminded me of the brotherly love we all should share. I've read these other tributes to Rick, and people noted how special he was - even to those who barely knew him. I feel the same way. I heard a saying once that none of us are strangers - but friends who have never met yet. Out of this unspeakable tragedy, you reminded me, by your words and conduct, that we all share life together. I admire the courage of your words this morning, and I pray that God will take care of you, Alexis, and your family. I hope it will give you some comfort to know that there are many people out there, those you know, and those who never had a chance to meet you or Rick, who are "pulling" for you. Sincerely, Liza Mientus
Terri Leone
February 5, 2002
Hearing "Glory Days" by Bruce Springsteen provokes memories of high school, and you are certainly remembered, with heartfelt kindness by all who were lucky enough to share your high school. God bless your family, friends, and dear wife and baby daughter. You will be thought of by so many people as the shining star of our "Glory Days". Sincerely,
Terri Leone and Family
Minnechaug Class of 1984
February 3, 2002
I am a Lafayette College Alumnus and remember Rick. He was in one of my classes and although I did not know him well, he was always such a friendly person. He sat next to me in class and always had something funny to say. There may be only a certain amount of people who contact his family to express their sympathy but know that there are so many others wishing you strengh each and every day.
Rex Klopfenstein
January 21, 2002
I never had the privilege of meeting Eric Thorpe. But, I have known his father, Ray, since our high school days. Ray, like his son, was a great athlete, generous human being, and good friend. The loss of a man like Eric is a tragic loss for all of us. That he and thousands of other innocent people were taken from us by hatred masquerading as religion is incomprehensible.
Kim Barron
January 16, 2002
You have so much to be proud of in Rick. I regret that I didn't get to know him better as he grew from the neighborhood boy into such a caring, giving man. My thoughts and prayers are with you all every day.
David Dorfman
January 15, 2002
Dude,
Fist, thank you for always buying me beers. I know you were working while I was still finishing school and I probably never told you how much I appreciated it.
We never got to ski together but I saw a photo of you and Linda at Vail from 95. You had a baby two years ago so I'm guessing you never got to Blue Sky Basin. They opened two new mountains in the back. My brother lived there for a while and he tells me about Snow Memorials. I don't know what it is yet but I'll be off to Vail to build you one before the end of the winter.
Finally, I'm sorry I couldn't come get you out. I know you would have tried to get to me. I was outside and the fire was to big. At first we thought it was a joke and until I got outside I didn't know anything. I guess I was out of position on that play. There was nothing I could do. I imagined taking water from the river but there was just no way.
We sent an army to avenge you and we'll be drinking in your honor in the mountains. I'll back up Linda and Alexis in any way they ask.
We always did say that James Dean was the way to go...
Antenisca Leone
January 8, 2002
Dear Rick,
Linda told me she wanted a special place near the water for your memorial service because that's what you would have wanted. And she did just that. For those of us who did not know you well, that day we all left as if we did. Linda and your family and friends shared so many incredible stories about who you are and how you lived that you touched our hearts.
Linda asked us all to make a promise of how we would remember you and I chose to volunteer as you did. Some men there promised to have better relationships with their in-laws as you did. You inspired even those who did not know you and that is another testament of how special you are. You will live on this way.
I pray that God embraces Linda, your little Alexis and your family and help them find peace and happiness again and the strength to go on without you.
Love,
Antenisca
Phil & Barbara Doran
December 31, 2001
I have opened and read this tribute to Eric many times and felt unable to find words to express my feelings. I decided it is not possible to put into words the sorrow and sympathy that I feel for you and your family.
I must tell you though that you are in our prayers and must be comforted by the knowledge that Eric is in the hands of the Supreme Being and we will all get to meet him on our day.
God bless you Ray and family
Bob Mitdhell
December 24, 2001
Words seem empty, but they are the only tools I have to express my deep sorrow for the loss of your dear son. What a wonderful man Rick was, and what a fitting NY Times tribute to his life. I remember, Ray, when you phoned me and said Rick was going to be married...and you referred to him as "my best friend." That in itself was the greatest tribute. So, the words that seem empty, will be lifted in prayer and returned to you a hundred-fold by God to comfort you and give you the peace that passes all human understanding. Ray and Marilyn...the Lord be with you.
Mary Ellen (Ferrucci) Bossom
December 22, 2001
I share in your sorrow. What a wonderful son, husband and father Eric was. How fortunate you are to have so many great memories. May the birth of the Christ Child bring Joy to your hearts, and Peace to all the Earth.
Teresa Jahn
December 10, 2001
We are so very sorry in your loss of "Rick". From the picture the world can tell he had a very warm heart that enjoyed life to the fullest. 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
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