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William E. Krukowski
William E. Krukowski
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William Krukowski Obituary
When William E. Krukowski gave up his motorcycle — and, by the way, skydiving — he took up with a bicycle. He got his exercise: he rode the bike to work most days at Ladder Company 21 in Manhattan from his home in Bayside, Queens.
He was a firefighter for about three years. He grew up in Bayside and went to Holy Cross High School and Nassau Community College. While he was waiting to be called to the Fire Department, he worked in construction and with the New York Department of Sanitation at Fresh Kills landfill in Staten Island, where, more recently, the rubble from ground zero has been taken.
Firefighter Krukowski was separated from his wife but spent a lot of time with his son, William Lee, 10. "I am so proud of the kind of father my brother was to his son through all the difficulties of his personal relationship," said his sister, Virginia.
His other love was souping up a car and then trying it out on a drag strip, his mother, Barbara, said. His father, Walter, said his son would also be remembered as a collector of junk, most of which Firefighter Krukowski brought to his grandparents' place in Connecticut, where there was more room. "Thanks, Bill," his father said. "I know what I'll be doing someday when I retire."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ginny Krukowski
September 9, 2024
Tears of Red, White and Blue
Your dreams were special
Your wants were few
And most of the time your worries went unspoken
You never looked for praise
You were never one to boast
You just went on valiantly working
for the ones who needed you most
But there you were ... in the explosion of that day
a firm foundation
a sturdy hand to hold
a driving force
a voice of direction
a saving grace
Actions taken without regret
Heroism no one should ever forget
A recognition for self-sacrifice
Big Bill paid the ultimate price
I cry tears of red, white and blue,
luv, your sister
Alex Maroutsis
August 30, 2024
23 years ago I was 10 years old, sitting with my best friend “little billy” in our 5th grade class when the lights of the school went out and students were being picked up one after another. Bill was like the cool dad, younger than mine, building his son and I a go-cart or being pulled in a chariot by his Rottweiler Puller. All this just to enjoy his own son’s time with him. When that fateful day came I remember not understanding I’d never see my hero again. Today I am about the age Bill was on Sept 11th. Still try and keep in touch with my childhood best friend Billy, most of all I went into a profession following the example a young father instilled in a 10 year old boy. As an EMT in the NYC 911 system, to be the hand you reach for on your darkest day or sadly sometimes minutes. I pray Bill you keep me safe and watch my 6, and I know your looking down proud of your son. Thank you, for you finding your calling, helped me find mine.
PS Ginny, upstairs in the wooden shelves are still written billy + ginny
Marci Maurer
February 25, 2024
To the family of William Krukowski ,
My name is Marci and I am from Atlanta ,Ga . I have prayed for your son and brother and father since 9/11/2001. My church, Cathedral of Christ the King had cards out for us to take home and pray for the loss of the lives at the World Trade Center. I have prayed and will continue to pray for William . So cool that he bicycled to the Ladder Company 21in Manhattan from Queens. I pray his son Willam Lee knows that his dad was a very special man and our country will NEVER forget 9/11/2001. Prayers that the angels lead William into paradise . May his soul perpetually and shine and eternal light be his.
May peace be yours, as you will all meet again,
Marci form Atlanta
Dawn Buschardt
November 12, 2023
Hello Krukowski Family,
I too, am a Krukowski by birth. My Aunt Alice told me about having found William's name and him being a firefighter in New York during 911.
I was born in New York, however grew up in Texas and thought for years that we were the only Krukowski's. However, I have since found out there are literally thousands of us.
I just wanted to say that my heart aches for you all, even all these years later for you all having lost a son, brother, husband, father, cousin and friend.
After reading these poems and stories, I feel like I have known a little of the man he was and I look forward to introducing myself to him one day in the life to come.
Thank you for this platform and the blessing of extended family, through the years and the miles between us. Blessings to you all.
Dawn
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Ginny Krukowski
September 11, 2023
What Would We Say?
I would tell you how much Bubba dog barks because he has so much to
share about his day when I get home from work – he really talks!
You might tell me about a recent trip to Connecticut with Little Bill where
you guys saw the stealthiest fly-over hawks!
I might tell you about the car I jacked up to grease with WD-40 but ran low
before job was complete and switched to “cooking oil spray”!
And you might tell me how your bicycle tire fell off, while riding it to work
from Queens to the fire station on 38th street in New York – and you would
say, “That was quite the day”!
I might call you early in the morning to tell you that I just read your horoscope
and the planets are lined up for you to have an energetic day followed by an
intense, romantic night!
You would laugh out loud and tell me simply that you hope your planets are lined
up but more importantly how you thank God above for every building that is not
burning - with all your might.
And the next time when we got together we would raise our beers and tap bottles
to cheerfully look forward to growing old, sitting in our rocking chairs, on our porch
– in the country, watching our kids, kids!
Love, your sister
Roger Zetah
October 13, 2022
Tower Challenge 2022. Phoenix, Arizona. I climbed the stairs in honor of William Krukowski. When I was handed my lanyard with Bill´s picture and name, I said "Let´s go! We´re doing this together."
Always climbing for them!!!
Adrienne Nielsen
September 11, 2021
Today I honor you as I have every year on this day. My prayers are going out to your family. I will wear my badge and pour one out for you today!!!! I will never forget!!!
Virginia Krukowski
September 10, 2021
Timeless Traveler
How could ONE turn into ashes and vanish
Dialogue exists between spirit and dust
Kindness and truth meet in me
Justice and peace will kiss one day
I know I am not alone
A strong belief sits in my heart
We ride the wind together, with an understanding at its reigns
Together we hurt - Together we will survive
Evening shadows begin to deepen
A spirit of familiar features exist
An occasion we so longed to share is upon us
On a breeze, across the miles
A wonderous surprise
Finding you at my doorstep
Would you come visit me again
And everything that you left?
I love you Brother, your sister - GinnyK
Virginia Krukowski
September 10, 2019
Dear Big Bill,
Mom and I are involving ourselves in truth seeking these days. We are investigating all angles, possibilities and pursuing justice in your murder. The poem for this year is a bit odd but you may understand it better than anyone. WE love and miss you every minute.
Nano Year
It is not made in a cave in Afghanistan
It is created by our most advanced laboratories from the defense industry
It is outside the footprint
It should not be in all the dust
It is a sudden onset of destruction
It is patterned explosions
It is free fall accelerations
It is a river of steel flowing
Following the fundamental laws of high school physics and
the geometry of fireworks
It must be the destruction of evidence at the crime scene
Rejected / Challenged / Hot Spot
Love, ginny k.
Ginny Krukowski
September 10, 2018
A biting chill finds home in my fingers,
My hand tingle, nerves charged
Sending my skin into a shivering fit
I shudder.
I work hard to prevent this lightening flare
Especially trying not to stare
Yet it seems utterly impossible.
They seem to be everywhere.
This mind that I drag around with me,
Silent and always stirring,
Particularly good at fashioning tools from bad memories
My blood crawls, then sorrow cascades from my eye.
A work in progress...no more.
Virginia Krukowski
September 9, 2017
Dear Bill,
I am managing a hurricane shelter as Category 5 Irma is about to make landfall.
I am away from home and miss my family and dogs terribly. My yearly poem is laying on my desk at home unfinished. My brain is foggy, my hands and feet full of blisters but my patience for humankind in the face of a tragedy is unwavering. That is because the worst possible event in my life has already happened and human kindness led the way. I have been talking to you for years and you have been communicating back. The following Native American Poem says what I hear from you:
I give you this one thought to keep.
I am with you still. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on the snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone.
I am with you still in each new dawn.
Thank you for being with me...I love you,
Your sister, ginny
James Gassman
September 11, 2016
May you always be remembered in our world as a true hero- sacrifice everything for strangers- I will do my best to surround myself with what I love, as you did- miss you cousin!
Nicole Lynn
September 10, 2016
Your bravery, selflessness and devotion will never be forgotten, May God bless William Krukowski and all those precious souls lost on sept 11th.
Always remember.
Ginny Krukowski
September 7, 2016
Dream Vision
His soul sat up
Those kind of souls always do-
The best ones
You met me
I waited patiently for contact
Imaginary, deep, glorious
You step on my heart
It makes me cry
But it also makes the air around me
Light, rare and still
I stand facing the wind
And melt into the sun
My eyes briefly see with clearest clarity
My senses become restored
and I will never be the same
Not one day has gone by that I do not
miss you from my life
I hold you inside my spirit
Only you hold the truth that
might be best hidden
Shadowed places forever
Haunt me please...forever
Love, your sister
Ginny Krukowski
August 16, 2016
Ginny Krukowski
August 16, 2016
August 15, 2016
My name is Matt Stephens. I am a volunteer fire fighter in Frankfort NY. (upstate) I will be doing the Central New York Memorial stair climb in Williams honor on Sept 9th. Never Forget
adrienne nielsen
September 11, 2015
I walked in tribute of William today at Red Rocks today. We climbed 110 stories because he did. We will never forget. Adrienne Hauff Nielsen
September 10, 2015
OUR CLOUD
Reminiscing about the past,
Stuck in the present,
Wondering what the future holds,
Carefully balancing the existence of this life,
No season has ever been the same...
As I hold onto the flight of a new day
Gazing out the window
With a wish that I had wings
In a flash I would fly high in the sky,
We would meet on a cloud
Your smile would strengthen my soul
Your laugh would be music to my ears
Your whisper would gladden my heart.
This happy feeling would continue to add life
back into me so that I could help balance those
around me.
Embracing the beauty and warmth
You will shine bright forever BIG BILL
Love, Your Sister (Ginny)
Montana Teems
September 11, 2014
On 9-7-14, I participated in a stair climb to remember the fallen 343 FDNY firefighters who perished on 9/11. I carried Firefighter Krukowski's picture on a lanyard, assigned to me by the event organizer. It is the least I could do to thank him and his family for the ultimate sacrifice he made. God bless.
nathan neske
September 11, 2014
On 9-7-14 I participated in a 110 floor stair climb to honor those heroes who fought the battle and past away on 9-11. I climbed in memory of William Krukowski. A husband, Father, Son, Hero, and a Brother. It was a privilege and an honor to do this. Never forgotten and always remembered.
Priscilla Prado
September 10, 2014
Ginny, my name is Priscilla Prado. I love in Corpus Christi Texas and tomorrow I will be running/ walking in a 5k in honor of the heroes of 911. Each participant will represent a different hero. I will be wearing your brother's Bib and I would like for you to know that I will be thinking of you and your family during my run and throughout the day. I am so sorry for your loss especially as I have three brothers and we are also very close. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and that we will never forget. Love, Priscilla
Ginny Krukowski
September 10, 2014
ONE MORE DAY
When my Brother appears before me it's my brain that fights it not my heart
Tumbling back into some mystical, misty place
Trees have grown around my memories
It has been a decade and one half since our last day together
My brother and I were to grow old together
If I had one more day I'd like to spend it together with our children - ending with a long talk late into the night
Some might say, "That's such an ordinary day"
And I'd say, "That's the point"
An ordinary minute, one more conversation, one more hug, smile, to hear the sound of his laugh
One more day spent with someone you love can change everything
I can go a whole life collecting days, and none will outweigh the next one I wish I could have had with you - Big Bill
Love, Ginny K.
Sharing tales of those we've lost is how we keep from really losing them
S J. Friscia III
April 21, 2014
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Ginny Krukowski
September 9, 2013
Big Bill,
This year let's dedicate this to our Mom, she has been amazing ...OK?
You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord,
Who abide in His shadow for life,
Say to the Lord, "My Refuge,
My Rock in Whom I trust."
And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you,
And famine will bring you no fear;
Under His Wings your refuge,
His faithfulness your shield.
And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night,
Nor the arrow that flies by day,
Though thousands fall about you,
Near you it shall not come.
And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
For to His angels He's given a command,
To guard you in all of your ways,
Upon their hands they will bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
Keep holding Mom in the palm of your hand...it is what keeps her going.
I love you and keep reaching for something in the distance, ginny
Tony Mc.
September 11, 2012
Billy, as always...will be thinking of you on this day. God Bless you and the Brothers.
L161/E160
KATHY SCHLOTTERBECK
September 11, 2012
WE REMEMBER RIP
Ginny Krukowski
September 9, 2012
I wish you could speak to my fears
I could use anger instead of having anger
I would understand destiny lies in decisions.
Once in awhile does not work anymore.
You raised touchstones by demanding more of yourself.
You assigned meaning to everything important
to impact those you love.
You see, lots of people know “what to do” but
you actually did what you know.
You left me in a demonstration of
never-ending commitment.
Do I hear it? see it? feel it?
It has set loose the restlessness inside of me.
Mad beauty has collected itself.
Must see a new world to live it…
So I look up…
Perhaps they are not stars
But rather openings in heaven
Where the love of those lost
Pours down and shines.
You let me gather power in your light.
You illuminate my heart.
I thank you,
your sister, ginny
July 20, 2012
FOR WILLIAM, FROM A DISTANT FRIEND AND TRAVELER.
GARY KRUKOWSKI
July 20, 2012
I AM WILLIAM'S SECOND COUSIN.WHEN WILLIAM PASSED ON I WAS NOTIFIED BY A FRIEND HERE IN SEATTLE WHERE I LIVE. AFTERWARDS, I HAD A SERIES OF DREAMS ABOUT WILLIAM. I NEVER KNEW HIM VERY WELL.HE WAS VERY YOUNG WHEN I WAS ALREADY A TEENAGER BUT FOR SOME REASON HE CAME TO ME QUITE A FEW TIMES IN MY DREAMS IN THE WEEKS FOLLOWING. I FELT AS IF I ACTUALLY HAD RECEIVED A CHANCE TO KNOW HIM. MAYBE IT WAS JUST IN MY SUBCONCIOUS IMAGINATION THAT I WAS ABLE TO FEEL HIS PRESENCE.I STILL FEEL HIS PRESENCE AND I HARDLY REMEMBER HIM EXCEPT MAYBE WHEN HE AND GINNY WERE RUNNING AROUND THE STAIRWAY AT THE OLD BAYSIDE HOUSE DURING THE HOLIDAYS, USUALLY AT CHRISTMAS TIME. I BELIEVE IT WAS BACK IN THE EARLY 70'S. I RECALL GINNY AND BILLY RUNNING UP AND DOWN THE STAIRS FROM THE LIVING ,DINING AREA UP TO THE BEDROOMS AND BACK AGAIN. I REMEMBER LAUGHTER AND EXCITEMENT FROM THEM AS THEY PLAYED. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I HAVE WRITTEN ANYTHING HERE ABOUT WILLIAM. ALTHOUGH, MY TIME WITH HIM WAS SHORT, I, ALONG WITH SO MANY OTHERS WILL HAVE A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART FOR HIM. SINCERELY, GARY KRUKOWSKI
Emmalee Zimmerman
July 19, 2012
Hi My name is Emmalee and I took part in the 9-11 climb to honor the fallen. I held onto FF Krukowski picture and walked up the 110 flights. Thank you for your service and you are still in our hearts
Chief Brian Kovac
April 20, 2012
I just did the NFFF Memorial Stair Climb in memory of FF Krukowski. It was a true honor and is something I will never forget. Thank you for your service FF Krukowski.
Martino Agosta
September 14, 2011
Thinking of a man i once called my friend before he was taken on Sept. 11th.You are a true Hero.. Its seems like yesterday we eating chinese and drinking Scorpions at the Local Chinese or getting dirty while moving mountains. RIP Billy , till we meet again...
T.J. Kiesler
September 11, 2011
In rememberance of the 10yr. anniversary of 9/11, my fellow firefighters and I climb to the top of a neighboring city's tallest building wearing the names of the 343 lost that day. I had the honor of wearing William Krukowski's name on my gear. I wanted to let family know how much appreciation was felt for FF. Krukowski and to say "thank you" for your service. We Will Never Forget!
Sgt. T.J. Kiesler JFD
Gary Pay
September 11, 2011
I carried the picture of William Krukowski up to the top of the mtn today. It was for the Fallbrook Firefighters event. He made it.
Drew Hedrick
September 11, 2011
I had the privilege of honoring the memory of William krukowski today in the Nashville stair climb. We were given cards with a photo name and station followed by the words NEVER FORGET. I will never forget William Krukowski and the hero he truly was.
Diane Krukowski
September 11, 2011
My sincerest sympathy to all in your family. I do not know if we are related but heard your name called this morning during the 10th anniversary ceremonies.
victoria homen
September 11, 2011
today was the 10 year anniversary of 9-11, i remembered 3000 people who were lost today. standing by the side of my father joaquin homen who as a firefighter himself was deployed as urban search & rescue to ground zero, i watched as we here in utah released 3000 white balloons representing all that were lost that day ten years ago. my brother and brother in law were there with the fire engine from franklin 343 that they drove across the map from nyc to cedar fort fire department, and in the line of ladder trucks there was a man selling metal wrist bands each one barring the name of a fallen firefighter.... and i chose your name... ff william krukowski. there are a lot of things in life that happen to good great and godlike people, most of which can't be explained. but here i am someone you don't know, never will i suppose wearing a small metal bracelet with the memory of you on it.... i will never forget, this stranger so far from where you were, no she will remember. thank you for your honor and bravery, and thank you for your heart. as my father says... it's my job, and that's all there is to it.... and humble as he may be i know that it takes a steel heart to go head first into the unknown... and that my friend is what heroes are made of.. best wishes and prayers to your family on this day 9-11-11.... never forget, victoria homen midvale utah.
Melissa Studds
September 10, 2011
I had the privilege of carrying a memorial card for Bill up 110 flights of stairs, alongside firefighters and other first responders last weekend in San Diego. We each climbed in memory of and to honor the fallen heroes of Sept 11, 2001. My thoughts and prayers are with the Krukowski family on the eve of the 10th anniversary. We will never forget.
Michael R. Nye
September 9, 2011
Thinking of you on this Tenth Anniversary of 9/11, Though we have never met it has taken me a long time to finally write this. I am a volunteer Firemen with the Owasco Fire Department. I wear a braclet with your name on it every year at this time and think of you often, along with the sacrifice that you made on that day. May God to continue to watch over you and all those who we remember on this Anniversary.....
Tony Mc.
September 8, 2011
Coming on 10 years Bro...seems like not that long ago, yet an eternity. This sad time will be remembered by many people, but as always, I'll be thinking of you, and the "brothers"!
God Bless each and every family that lost loved ones that day.
TFD-E160/161
September 6, 2011
Ginny Krukowski
September 6, 2011
Morning Light
I can’t mess with morning light
When you are there to greet me
Look to the beginning of each day
Seeing you behind my eyelids
The fight for something more than before
Coming thru the shadows of the night
Treasures of hope and faith ignite
On the wings of dawn
Hold a picture of you in mind’s eye
You are flowing with me on my journey
Love, faith, and gratitude
The swiftest flame has not impeded our journey
Vapors rising, all on fire, we will forever mingle together
Love -your sister ginny
Alex Maroutsis
September 3, 2011
To my inspiration and role model, Big Bill
I met Billy when i was about 8 years old, and even than I knew I standing in the presence of greatness. Billy was at the time living in the basement of what currently is my home. We in fact bought this house from Billys family and my earliest memories of living here were of being scared to walk around the side and having puller bark at me from beyond that old brown wooden fence. Bills son Billy Jr. and I were the same age and naturally we became very good friends. We both enjoyed years of fun with his father, from watching the simpsons in his kitchen while he prepared dinner, to go carting in the park in College Point. Bill would hook puller up to a cart he had built and tow us down to vinnys pizzeria a few blocks away, like a horse and buggy this became endless amusement for a child. I remember going to his fathers house in connecticut for a weekend of planned boating and fishing. I recall the first night there staying up late in a dark room being so far from home i was quite nervous, but having Billy there kept my mind at ease and i knew i was safe. As the years went on Billy moved down the block and i even remember the morning of saturday september 8th Bill promising my dad too be back tuesday night to help with the uprooting of my lawn which we had begun to resod. Little did i know this would have been the last time i had laid eyes on him in flesh. If i had known that then i would have had much to thank him for in all that he taught me in the short magical time i knew him. Billy remains with me today deep in my heart and i have dedicated much of my life to him. Now being 20 years old, his honorable demeaner i try to uphold and my life i plan to have as a new york city police officer i do in his memory. Billy has come to me many nights in my dreams if only to remind me of how important of a man he was to me. You were the strongest man ive every known and i love and miss you very much billy and you will always be in our hearts.
''IN THE MEMORY OF THIS MOMENT ,LET US REJOICE FOR THE WORLD IS ONCE AGAIN REBORN'',LOVE GARY
GARY KRUKOWSKI
December 12, 2010
I WAS IN CHINA -OCT.2010
GARY KRUKOWSKI
December 12, 2010
AFTER CAREFUL REVIEW OF WILLIAM'S LIFE I FEEL WE HAVE HAD MUCH IN COMMON.WITH LOVE AND ADMIRATION,GARY JOSEPH KRUKOWSKI
GARY KRUKOWSKI
December 12, 2010
I HAVE HAD MANY DREAMS ABOUT BILLY ESPECIALLY THE WEEK AFTER I FOUND OUT ABOUT HIM GOING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
GARY KRUKOWSKI
December 12, 2010
HI GINNY,NOYICE ANY RESEMBLANCE?
GARY KRUKOWSKI
December 12, 2010
Ginny Krukowski
September 10, 2010
Are you lingering in the ray of blue light?
Or did you enter heaven with lightening speed?
Before you left this earth you built a strong body and enhanced your spirit
Did you complete your give-and-take accounts?
Or do you still visit in reincarnation to act as a spiritual guide?
You know, Mom sees you in all butterflies - You follow her everywhere - don't you!
I see you bathing in intense levels of happiness
You know why - don't you?
You followed a path of action, knowledge, and devotion
Miss you Brother - Luv you More,
Ginny
Tony Mc.
September 10, 2010
Billy, it's the eve of the 9th anniversary of that awful day. You are still a friend in my heart. I hope to visit their next year. I truly hope you are with your brothers, hamming it up. The world misses you guys.
T. McClarty TFD-E160-LT161
Morgan
May 24, 2010
I never met you, but I wear a bracelet with your name on it. I bought it online not long after 9/11. Names were put on the bracelets and were randomly sent out to people who ordered the bracelets. I do believe there was a reason I received the bracelet with your name on it. I was the same age as you when you passed away and my oldest son's middle name is William. His name was passed down to him as you did with your son. I am so sorry that your son does not have you here for him to grow up with and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you did that day. I think of you and pray for your family every time I wear my bracelet. I hope they have found peace in knowing that you are now safe and are watching over them. God Bless.
Kat Barrow
April 7, 2010
William,
We never met one another but my brothers and sisters (your cousins Eddie, Lauren and Lynn) spoke very fondly of you. I think you all hung out as kids quite a bit over the summers, it was before I was born. My mom's first husband, your uncle Edward, was lost in Vietnam and I know it is something that my mom and siblings think about always. When I came across your name online tonight a flood of emotion washed over me. We were all so terrified for the days and weeks after September 11th, something I haven't experienced ever before and a fear I hope to never experience again. There are no words of gratitude that will ever express how lucky we all are that there are people like you in this world.
God bless your family,
Kathy
Hayden
September 8, 2008
Dear William,
I never knew you, but I will always remember what you did on that day. Thank you, and my prayers are with you. I will never forget
Karina
April 14, 2008
Thank you for sacrificing you life for other people. You are a real hero.
Jonathan Maroutsis
March 12, 2008
I miss you Billy! Billy was like my second father. He lived downstairs from me untill January of 2001. He then moved down the block to live with George, who wrote something on page 3 of this guestbook. But my memories with him will stay in my heart forever. I am 13 year old boy from Bayside who knew Billy like family. I remember hanging out with my older brother, his son and him, going go-carting, being pulled by his dog in the red wagon, watching nascar, eating his delcious dinners, making a clubhouse in his boat that was parked in the driveway! This man meant so much to me. I saw him everyday of my childhood, and I wish I couldve had more moments with him, but i was only 7 around the time. For those who dont know Billy, he was a man of honesty and a very determined man. I would always catch him doing work on his car in the driveway, and wouldnt give up untill not one screw is loose on the car. Little Bill moved away but my brother keeps in touch with him every now and then. We miss you here in Bayside, and the house misses you to. We havent really touched a thing in the basement. The cabinets are still the same, and it feels like youre still down here. I love you Billy and miss you dearly,
Craig Humphreys
March 9, 2007
I express my condolences to the Krukowski family. I want you to know he hasn't been forgotten. I proudly wear the braclet with his name. As a 15 year firefighter we will never forget. God Bless You
P Tabbernor
November 28, 2006
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 7, 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.
Williams
October 30, 2006
It is so heartbreaking to continually see the sadness of so many families from the 9/11 tragedy. Nothing in this world can give us any kind of peace like God can. May you keep hope in Him and allow Him to help you make it through each day.
Jessica
September 28, 2006
Thanks for bein there. r.i.p
Tony McClarty E160
September 11, 2006
It's been 5 years Billy. You rode with us in Phoenix, I think of you every day. You are not forgotten here. God is with you!
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
Mary Alice (Mickey) Wanser
March 24, 2004
To the family of William Krukowski,
We were all friends so long ago, in New York. I was deeply saddened to read of your tragic loss just last week. I will never forget that horrible day. My nephew Michael was also in the first tower that day, but he was more fortunate and managed to escape safely. William, your day did NOT die in vain. He will continue to live on in our hearts and prayers.
God Bless you all,
Kathi Miller
October 28, 2003
My sister-in-law gave my husband, William, a special gift on his birthday this past Sept. His birthday is 9/11. The gift is a bracelet with the name William Krukowski which my husband wears proudly. God bless you William and your family. Your memory will live on through those who knew you personally and those of us less fortunate who didn't. Kathi Miller
Bobby Williams
September 11, 2003
The Krukowski Family
Soon after 9/11 occured I purchased a bracelet @ random, and it just so happened William E. Krukowski was on it. I went and found the information telling about this young man. It was July of 02 a good friend of mine and I traveled to NY simply to see Ground Zero and talk with the brothers. We happened into the house where Ladder 21 is. While my buddy was chatting with the guy on house watch, there was a thank you card with Williams' wife's and son's name thanking all the brother's of the house for everything they have done. I really have no words to express how deeply that touched me that day. It's something I will never forget. Let me just say that I think about William all of the time, he's always with me right here on my wrist. It never comes off..... I think of all the Krukowski members as well. You are in my thoughts and prayers...
SUSAN ZIEGLER
October 16, 2002
May you rest in peace. Keep watching out for your family like you did in life. You lost your life saving lives, you will not be forgotten. You will always be in my prayers, along with your family.
Sincerly your cousin,
Susan
Kristi Leone
October 8, 2002
You personally will never be forgotten.... My boyfriend and I were going through the main web site and we went here because this is his family name, I have know idea if there is any relation, but, I did want to say that from now on, family or not, there is always going to be one more prayer out there for you and your family, William, your incredible selflessness as a firefighter that eventually brought you to a end, will never be over or under looked because you, William, are and always will be my personal HERO!!!
Guy DeCrescenzo
September 15, 2002
To the Krukowski family and Friends. I attended a Memorial Service here in Broomfield Colorado on 9/11/02. At the end of the beautiful Service, I passed along a table of Memorial Lapel Pins. Each pin was in honor of a Fallen member of FDNY or NYPD. I picked up the pin that was in honor of your William. As an ex-New Yorker who worked in the World Trade Center for many years, I am extremely proud of what William did for our City and our Country. I wear this pin in memory of all of the Firefighters that gave their lives on that horrific day but I wear it especially for William. I am very sorry for your loss. William is a true American Hero.
Rachel
September 13, 2002
I don't know why i cried when i read your story - it just touched me. Although I did not know you, I know firefighters and that they are incredible people and I just wanted your loved ones to know that you will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Lynne P
September 10, 2002
To Williams's Family,
First of all, my thoughts and prayers every day of my life. My brother is a fireman in my small hometown of Beaver Falls, PA. I did not know your son, but know what special people firemen are. I treasure my bracelet with his name and know that he is now his son's guardian angel. Know that he is in my thoughts, heart and prays always.
Coreen & Family
September 10, 2002
To Bill's Loved Ones,
On the eve of this tragic one year anniversary, we would like to send our hearts out to Bill's family. We unfortunately didn't have the pleasure of knowing him well, but you, his family, have been in our thoughts all through this long year of mourning and sorrow.
We will and never can forget what has happened, but let's hope to strive in at least making this a better/safer world for Billy Lee to grow up in.
All the best and would love to hear from you, Coreen, Nancy & Suzanne.
Aunt Marilyn
September 6, 2002
Dearest Billy...
Here I am, five days from your first anniversary in heaven. It is a beautiful and crisp morning this day, as it was when God brought you into this world and on September 11, 2001, the day when he called you home.
Your smile...that most beautiful smile...I always see. My tears are not those of selfishness, but rather ones, I pray, "extinguish the fires" of many broken hearts.
May God continue to shine your beautiful smile upon all of us as a reminder of what we are too often guilty of preaching more than practicing: the Prayer to St. Francis of Assisi:
"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
...where there is injury, pardon;
...where there is doubt, faith;
...where there is despair, hope;
...where there is darkness, light;
...where there is sadness, joy;
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
...to be consoled as to console;
...to be understood as to understand;
...to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
...it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
...and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life".
You are an American hero! I am honored to have known and loved you for all your days on earth. Your sacrifice to your (our) family and the American people will never be forgotten.
With faith and hope that this message ALSO crosses many paths here on earth, I remain always loving you.
Daniela Sanchez
September 4, 2002
DEAR MR. WILLIAM KRUKOWSKI
ESPERO QUE ESTE BIEN SU FAMILIA Y LE
DOY GRACIAS POR HABER SALVADO A LA DEMAS GENTE Y ESPEREMOS QUE ESTE DESCANSANDO EN PAZ.
MR.KOY SEVERINO
SOUTHMORE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
PASADENA ISD,TEXAS.
Margy Maroutsis
June 16, 2002
Dear Billy, It has been 9 months and we still cannot get past the thought of you not here. You gave your life for our country and in exchange we promise to do what we can for "little Bill". He is still a big part of our family and the boys make him feel like one of their brothers. You know, our home is his home and it will remain that way. Thanks Bill, it's our turn to return the favor. God Bless You.
JOE KUBIK
June 9, 2002
KRUKOWSKI FAMILY
I AM A CHICAGO FIREMAN ON SQUAD 1. I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU EVERYDAY AS I HAVE CHOSEN TO WEAR BILLY'S REMEMBERANCE BRACELET. I CHOSE BILLY BECAUSE OF HIS POLISH NAME AND I FELT OUR NATIONALITY WAS OUR BOND. NOW BEING ABLE TO READ A LITTLE BIT ABOUT HIM I FEEL THIS BOND IS STRONGER, I TOO RIDE MY BIKE TO WORK. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU HAVE A FRIEND IN CHICAGO WHO THINKS OF BILL AND HIS FAMILY EVERYDAY. GO0D LUCK AND GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
SINCERELY
JOE KUBIK
CHICAGO FIRE DEPT.
SQUAD 1
Angie Campbell
May 3, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
michael catusco
April 12, 2002
Billy was a great guy and a great
equipment operator and one of the best people to work with
George Stein
March 11, 2002
All the neighbors on 200 Street dearly miss this kind sole who gave so much life and excitement to others through his dedication to his son. A bond has grown in the six months that have passed for all to seek a moment with this boy all the other children were so envious of.
I was blessed to have shared my home with Billy the last eight months of his life. If anything I can do to honor his memory it will to be bring a child into this world whose father's compassion can match the humility and sense of purpose my life long friend gave his son.
None of us can truly admit losing this man for the gift of his love and the memories of him with his Billy Lee will never leave us. The guys at L21 and E206 tell me "Super Probie" watching over them on every tour. We were all truly blessed, thank you Billy!
Mazowieski
March 1, 2002
I'm 36 years old and I was born in the same area that william was from. AND I WILL NOT FORGET. God bless.
February 15, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL HERO FIREMAN WILLIAM E.KRUKOWSKI AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS.GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY ...HIS SON AND HIS FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01.MAY JESUS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN.AMEN
Bill Knowlton
February 7, 2002
William Krukowski's grandparents, Edward & Stephanie Krukowski, lost William's Uncle, USAF Capt. Edward Krukowski in the Vietnam War, in 1965. Edward, a close friend and my classmate, was the first Fordham University graduate to be lost in that war, and is buried with honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
Now the Krukowskis have given a second descendent of theirs to their Country in time of war. May they, and William's parents find pride in their tremendous sacrifices their offspring have made to the USA. We can never thank them, or you, enough. God bless all of you!
Judy Fodor
January 18, 2002
KRUKOWSKI FAMILY:
YOU AND YOUR FAMILY OUR THOUGHT OF IN OUR PRAYERS EVERY DAY. MAY GOD BLESS LADDER 21 FDNY.
Kim Kaminski
January 16, 2002
I'm very sorry for the loss of this fine person. He will be remembered in many hearts for the great thing he did. He is a great person to risk his life in the buildling to save the others. I'm sorry for his loved ones .
kevin O'Grady
January 8, 2002
Billy you made many happy you will for ever be in thier hearts God Bless you for everything you represent and everything you have done for eveyone
Marc Loro
January 7, 2002
I am writing to express my condolences to the family and friends of William Krukowski. Just before Christmas, the catholic churches in Springfield, Ill. distributed four names from the list of victims of 11 Sept. in the Sunday bulletin, asking each parishoner to lend some support to their family and friends through our thoughts and prayers.
So I took my list of four names and lit a candle and said a prayer for them. Mr. Krukowski is one of the victims whose name I was privileged to receive.
I want his family and friends to know that I am very sorry for their loss, that you and William are in my prayers, and that I am grateful that I live in a country that makes heros the likes of William Krukowski.
May God keep and bless you and William, and give you strength and comfort.
Joann Evers
January 6, 2002
Billy, we only knew one another for a brief time. Now I will hold that time and you in my heart forever. That I promise. You were an angel on earth and now you are one of God's angels watching over us. My love and prayers are with you always kiddo. Forever, Joann.
Tim Reise
January 2, 2002
God rest your good soul, man.
Teresa Jahn
December 26, 2001
We are extremely sorry for your loss of William. We thank him for dedicating his life to help others as a firefighter. Such dedication comes with a brave, warm, and caring heart filled with love for his fellow man. May his courage, warmth, life and love live on in those who love him. Our hearts cry with you in your loss of William.
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
J Cherbonneau
December 24, 2001
Christmas Eve, 2001
Dear William,
My Christmas wish this year is that the love and caring that has been expressed for the men and women who perished, needlessly, on September 11, continue and that you and your memory never been forgotten!
You made the ultimate sacrifice and you became and Angel in Heaven.
You and your fellow firefighters, New York's Bravest, made America aware of what true heroism is all about. I have discovered firefighters all have several things in common. They are caring, respectful, and not afraid to give their lives for others.
God Bless you, William and Rest In Peace. I am so sorry for the loss and sorrow your loved ones have had to face.
Frances Cothern
December 20, 2001
I am truly honored to be wearing the name of someone so honorable and brave. I received this band as a gift from my mother-in-law, and this gift has the most meaning to me. I pray every day for your family and for you. My family and I will always keep you in our thought and prayers. God Bless You.
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