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Eric Thomas Ropiteau
Eric Thomas Ropiteau
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Eric Ropiteau Obituary
It could be said that Eric T. Ropiteau, who was 24, cruised into his New York life. On a skateboard, in fact.
He was riding along a Downtown street a little more than a year ago, visiting a friend in the city, when a photographer spotted him and urged him to pursue a modeling career. Mr. Ropiteau, who stood 6-feet-4 and had deep brown eyes, signed right up. Later, when he looked around for something else, a classmate from the University of Vermont, from which he graduated in 2000, suggested he apply for an opening at TradeSpark, a subsidiary of Cantor Fitzgerald. He began working there last June, at first sharing a computer with his friend, Joshua M. Piver.
Ebullient and outgoing, he loved to draw and to give things names: his car was White Rhino and a bonsai tree he bought in early September with his girlfriend, Fabienne Schultness, became Herbert. He, Mr. Piver and two of their friends signed a lease for a big apartment in Park Slope, Brooklyn, on Sept. 10. Afterward, he called his mother, Barbara R. Galloway. "Mom!" he told her. "I have Perma-grin. Did you hear me, Mom? I have Perma-grin."
Ms. Galloway said yes, she heard him. "He was so happy," she said. "Everything was going so well."
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Josh Blank
September 11, 2024
Ropes, thinking of you always on this day.
Joshua Blank
September 11, 2023
Thinking of you Ropes as always this time of year.
Fabienne Eiselin
September 11, 2023
The years pass, but the love and the memory of you shall never pass away. Love you always, your Fabienne
Joshua Blank
September 10, 2022
Ropes,
Thinking of you bro.
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Suzanne Phillips
September 11, 2021
My daughter, Alissa, and Eric were Harley classmates from grade 4 through graduation. During field trips and other school related activities I had the good fortune to meet Eric, his Mom and sister. Every September 11th I think of this family and feel much sorrow over the massive loss Barbara and Lara have endured due to the death of this very special and memorable young man. ...ongoing condolences and empathy sent. Suzanne Phillips
Joshua Blank
September 10, 2021
It’s crazy it’s been 20 years Ropes! Thinking of you on this day as always.
Paul Searls
September 11, 2020
I had Eric as a student at UVM. He made a big impression on me, friendly and charismatic. I think of him every year on this day.
Paul Searls
September 11, 2020
I had Eric as a student at UVM. He made a big impression on me, friendly and charismatic. I think of him every year on this day.
Josh Blank
September 11, 2020
Thinking of you Ropes, almost 20 years later and still can’t believe this all happened. Rest easy my man and be as chill as I always see you as.
Josh Blank
September 11, 2019
Rest easy Ropes, thinking of you on this day.
Sasha
September 11, 2018
Thinking of you Eric from our Harley days, like I do every year. Life just is really unfair sometimes. 17 years later, just imagine ...
September 11, 2016
Love always, Fabienne
Erin and Corey Ishman
April 19, 2015
Hey Ropes, Corey and I are having a drink together in honor of your birthday. Miss u and love u buddy.
Bri mac
December 14, 2014
I moved to NY for med school. I visited the memorial this past weekend. It reminded me of the day, in canada, that I watched the horror unfold. I was in the university bookstore, and couldn't believe It.
This past weekend, more than a decade later, I saw the beautiful memorials. I looked down and saw this name. It made me cry. For him this place was a nightmare and here I was, standing here so oblivious to the reality of that day.
I cannot know everyone who perished that day. For me, this name will forever stay in with me. I can only hope that his loved ones have found some normalcy and comfort. He's with you, and with all of us.
Matt Jensen
December 12, 2014
Just watched a documentary on Cantor. It was and always will be heartbreaking. I had just seen you again for the first time in years just days before. I will never forget that.
I always looked up to you as a kid.
Your former neighbor.
Robyn
September 11, 2014
I always remember your charming smile and laugh. Thinking of you a lot today.
Andy Pedley
September 11, 2014
I visited ground zero in Jan 2014 and took a photo at one of the pools.....Eric's name stands out.....condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.....from a complete stranger xx
September 11, 2014
Love always, Fabienne
September 11, 2014
Thinking of you Eric, Love Fabienne
Erin Ishman
April 19, 2014
Happy b day bro, thinking of you!
mark jensen
September 11, 2013
thought of you today. you were a great friend
April 20, 2013
It is the morning after I broke my arm one year ago on your birthday. You are never forgotten, and Boston got the bad guy.
Erin Ishman
April 19, 2013
Happy Birthday Ropes! Love you bro!
December 21, 2012
Love u always and forever
September 12, 2012
Thought of you yesterday, and hope that your family and close friends are healing. Your tree is so tall and so beautiful, but you know that.
Erin Ishman
September 11, 2012
Love you Ropes.
June 20, 2012
Fabienne Schulthess
April 21, 2012
Happy Birthday!! <3
April 20, 2012
Happy birthday Eric. I broke my wrist on your birthday yesterday. Your tree is doing great.
Erin Ishman
April 19, 2012
Happy Birthday Eek!!! Love you!!!
November 19, 2011
Fabienne <3
November 19, 2011
September 12, 2011
Your tree grows well at Harley.
Sauce
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you today Ropes. I will never forget the smile on you face.
Tamara Ulfert
September 11, 2011
Missing you.
Josh Blank
September 11, 2011
Thinking of you today Ropes...
Corey Ishman
September 11, 2011
Miss you my friend...
B W
September 10, 2011
Big ups Eek!!! We will never forget...
Doing what I can every day!
B and Fam...
Sean Dye
September 9, 2011
Eric was my student at UVM. He was a great guy. I think of him often.
Sean Dye
Fabienne
April 19, 2011
Happy Birthday Love! Miss you!
April 19, 2011
Happy Bday there buddy. Raising a glass to you, as always.
Erin Ishman
April 19, 2011
Happy Birthday Bro!! Love you Ropes!
Corey Ishman
April 19, 2011
Happy Bithday Eric.I miss you brother.
Debbie Kaliel
March 30, 2011
We were at Harley together until 6th grade. I remember this funny and charming guy who I battled with in kickball games and dodgeball. I am sadden to learn just now of this loss of life that had so much promise.
Jill Miele
December 8, 2010
Just wanted to say that you're remembered here too Eric. Thinking of you, your family and your friends at Harley...
Rob Morrisson
September 12, 2010
We had a blast a UVM and i'm sure you're having a blast wherever you are now. One day when we all join you, we'll sit around and laugh about all this.
Until then...
Melissa Bardfield
September 11, 2010
"Sons occupy far more space than their size would indicate. That's why the house feels so empty when you're gone". I wish there was something I could say to ease the pain in your Mom's heart. You are so loved and we remember you smiling...
s l
September 11, 2010
You were a very bright flame.
Erin Ishman
April 20, 2010
Happy belated bro!
Erin
Laurie
September 11, 2009
Thinking about you on this day of remembrance - will never forget your smile - you could always make me laugh! Both in Rochester and in New York, I have very fond memories of you...xoxo
Cat Pear
September 11, 2009
Thinking of you today, you darling boy. I'll never forget "the voice". The picture Fabienne posted is just perfect.
Love.
Rochester NY, September 2001
Fabienne Schulthess
September 11, 2009
You walked in to my life,
But just like that,
You had to walk back out,
Still you will be a memory,
A memory that will always be locked,
Away in my heart and my mind,
I will always have a memory of you in my heart,
And I will always carry that picture of you in my mind,
Still you will be a loving memory.
Danielle Syer
September 11, 2009
Hey E,
This will be the first year since then I have not lived in NYC. I always mentioned your name and what I new about you as a friend on this day. I'll never forget your mantis dance moves and hitching rides home from Toronto in compact cars. You were always looking for that huge coat... You are missed.
Robyn G
September 10, 2009
E~
I still remember the day vividly, but more importantly, I remember your sideways smile and gentle nature.
Love,
R
Erin Ishman
April 19, 2009
Happy B-day Ropes!! We love you!!
Doug Abraham
April 19, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Tamara Ayumi Ulfert
December 2, 2008
Hey Eric, just wanted to say thanx for the other night at Fabi's. We (especially I) were real lucky not to blow that place up and to have nothing more than a few singed hairs. Almost peed our pants about the whole incident but gosh, we were lucky! And I know that you watched over us. I know you are there and everywhere. Thanx!
Ryan Kimmet
September 11, 2008
Thinking of you, old friend, on the swings of the Harley playground. Miss you...
Jason Buschel
September 11, 2008
"Praying Mantis, I can see you skate around campus. Inside your madness lies the order of the enchantress..."
Eric - you are truly a modern force, a master, an incarnation of the freedom and perfection of the human spirit. You are a "natural", whose purity is a tribute to your friends and family. To know you is to connect, on the deepest level, to the simple, uncorrupted, uncompromising joy of life. The secret of life!
The energy you share with the world is the highest form of generousity and you give endlessly. THANK YOU! WE LOVE YOU ROPES! WE MISS YOU! and we'll see you soon again for more adventures.
Peace friend
Robyn Griffiths
September 11, 2008
E,
I'm thinking of you...
R
roland kanwicher
September 11, 2008
dear eric,
it's me, your friend roland from germany. i wanted you to know, that i came to visit ground zero this march, found your name and thought of you with my girlfriend maria - and am thinking of you today again, in germany.
roland
Erin Ishman
September 11, 2008
Ropes, I love you brother. I'm going to try as hard as I can to make Laura's wedding. Peace Eek!
September 1999, Cannes (France),
BRIGITTA BENKO
August 28, 2008
Dear Eric,
Yesterday, I was very nostalgic and was trying to find old friends and schoolmates on the internet. I think that the best year of my life was 1999 when I lived in France. I was studying French with you in Cannes in the same college. During all these years I was thinking of you every now and then when I came across some old photos and my special book that you signed as well.
I became very upset and deeply sad when I found this page. I just couldn’t believe it.
I will always think of you as the kindest and of course the most handsome guy on the planet.
From now on, I am going to light a candle for you every year on your birthday.
For me you will be never gone.
Doug Abraham
April 19, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Marthe Utmo
December 7, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kristin L.B.
September 15, 2007
Eric,
I remember meeting you when you were just two years old and your family moved to our town. I became friends with your big sister and was envious of her because I always wanted a younger brother like you. You were a beautiful baby. You became a wonderful and beautiful person. You were and are the light in your family and friend's lives. Your life was too short and you will never be forgotten. You are very much missed...
kristine
April 23, 2007
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.
Fabienne Schulthess
April 19, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIC! I miss you on that special day and wish we could celebrate it together. I am thinking of you, especially today!
Love always,
Fabienne
Erin Ishman
April 3, 2007
Hey bro, your b-day is coming up! I'm sure Corey and I will celebrate in true sailor fashion. Yet it all seems limitless.
P Tabbernor
February 22, 2007
In remembrance....
corey ishman
January 13, 2007
Eric,
It's the beginning of a new year and I wanted to let you know that I have not and will never forget how much you meant and still mean to me. I love you as a brother and always will. Corey.
Jason Sahler
October 3, 2006
Hey Buddy,
It has been far too long since I have talked to you. There really aren't any words that can express how much I miss you, or there are and my storytelling abilities still aren't up to the task. My thoughts are with you everyday. I would give up most everything to just get another sweeping roundhouse kick over my head from your lanky legs. For twenty years through thick and thin your stealthful roguery and my Druidic tendencies were a match made in Advanced Dungeon and Dragons heaven.
You'll always be Eek to me.
Peace Brother
J
Sarah Pollica-James
April 20, 2006
I think of you always, Eric. It has been a while since I last visited this site, and yet your memory is as strong as ever. Peace to you.
Tamara Ulfert
September 11, 2004
"The moon will rise, the sun will set...but we won't forget"
Not a day goes by when you are not loved and missed.
Held in our hearts forever.
Eric, we will always remember you and you are always in our thoughts and prayers. I'm sure you can feel that and see all the candles we light in your memory...missing you a lot!
Fabienne Schulthess
September 11, 2004
If you were once connected with someone,
does it make sense that the connection is broken
just because of a physical death? No, the connection stays.
You may just have to listen differently.
You may just have to talk differently.
The truth is: the connection is never broken.
It's quite impossible to break the most powerful connection
in the universe.
As long as you exist, the connection stays.
Erik Lundback
June 18, 2004
Eric and I attended The Harley School together until my departure after 5th grade. From the very beginning we shared a strong bond, in part because of our similar names but also because of a variety of shared interests and other connections beyond simple explanation. As a young boy, Eric was extremely talented in so many ways, ways that clearly contributed to his success as a young adult. I greatly admired his artistic abilities and fondly remember creating large collborative drawings with him and other students. Unfortunately, we lost touch when I moved to a different school and town, although I always awaited the day we would meet again.
I am horribly saddened that our reunion on Earth is no longer possible, but my sorrow selfishly pales in comparison to the loss experienced by his surviving family members and others close to him. From the top, middle, bottom and all sides of my heart, I offer my love and deepest sympathy. For all it is worth, I feel priveledged just to have known and spent time with such a wonderful person. Like so many others who shared that priveledge, I will never forget Eric and will remember him for all his youthful glory.
Until we meet again........
Karim
December 2, 2003
Me and my friend Sanjeev met Eric a couple of years ago in Cannes. He was over there taking a course in order to improve his french. His father was originally from France. During his stay in France we spent much time alltogether.
we 've got to know yesterday almost 2 years after the terrible event,that Eric perished in the terrorist attacks of sept 11.
It goes back to the time i was still living in France. I've known Eric for about 6 months he was so openminded, always helping and comforting. He had such an incredible sense of humour,and we never got bored when he was with us. I counted him among the only few friends i had. Me , Eric and Sanjeev spent som great time in Cannes.
Buddy i miss you, why did you have to leave us that way !!!!
I remember now that he mentionned in his last mails that he was about to work in a big building in NY. He sounded so enthusiastically happy and hopefull about that job opportunity. The guy was full of potential and had just finished his studies. Then i did not hear from him anymore, the mails i sent to him always returned to me. I never related it to the terrorist attacks.
Me sanjeev spent with Eric his last night at Cannes!and i met him afterwards with his girlfriend fabienne.
I feel ashame that i only got the news yesterday!!!!! I typed his name and last name in website's search field in order to figure out his mail adress...... but what came out was mornfull news. We feel absolutely ashamed of ourselves! Two years have gone by, we selfishly kept on our way of life without even acknowledging that Eric had left us. Fabienne i feel sorry and don't what to tell u. I present my codoleances to his respective mother and relatives.
Cher frére que ton âme repose en paix ou que tu sois. Tu as illuminé nos vies pendant un court instant. Je ne t'oublierais jamais car tu seras à partir de maintenant toujours présent dans nos coeurs.Pourquoi faut il toujours que les meilleurs partent en premier. Victime de la folie des hommes je ne t'oublierais jamais.
Tes amis d'outre-mer . Karim et Sanjeev.
[email protected]
Janeth Pezzati
September 11, 2003
To Dear Eric,and his Family, Last Sept.11 02 I went to mass and picked your name. I pray for all of you everyday.Today i went to the new Memorial in our towm and prayed for Eric. I am a mom to five boys and two girls I lost one of my daughters 2 years ago, I do know what it is to lose a child. My heart go out to you and your family.I will not forget him in my prayers. Janeth Pezzati,Islip New York.
Michael Kane
September 11, 2003
I met Eric the first day of college. The first conversation went like this. Hey. Hey. Where are you from. New York. Oh yeh me too. Where abouts? Rochester. You're from the Roc. Yea, why you know the Roc. Yea. I'm from the Roc also. Then after looking at eachother a little more carefully we realized that we both looked a little more familiar. From that moment on Eric and I became good friends. Many trips back and forth to Vermont in the White Rhino and my car which didn't have a name. I liked being around Eric. There were always laughs, big laughs. We had good times in Vermont and Rochester alike. We got excited to go home to get a Garbage Plate and excited to return to our house in VT. I still get excited when I think about Eric and the joy he brought to everbody's lives.
Tamara Ulfert
September 16, 2002
STARS - perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven
Where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines upon us to let us know they are happy.
*inspired by Eskimo legend
A look at the stars, the touch of a hand...
You are wished whatever comforts you.
You are wished what brings peace to your heart.
Eric,
I hope that you found a nice skatepark in heaven where you can be happy and have fun. Fabienne and your family & friends miss you a lot. Hope you watch over them...I try to watch over Fabienne a bit.
Miss you a lot...will always remember...BIG HUG, Tamara
Tony Cinquino
September 11, 2002
I was Eric's second grade teacher at Harley. He was such a kind and gentle person. I will always remember his wonderful smile. He was a treasure that some of us got to share. He is dearly missed.
Oliver Euga
September 11, 2002
Sometimes I think that you're not really gone from this world. That you walked from the rubble with skateboard in hand saying something like "dude, you wouldn't believe what just happened to me." But even the brightest lights can be dimmed by the dark works of others. Wherever you are, I have no doubts it is better with your wit and character. Say hi to Josh for me. Peace my friend.
"Illegitimis non carborundum."
Anita Senger
September 9, 2002
Although I never met Eric, he sounded like a remarkable person that is missed by those who knew and loved him. I know only his name from a wristband that my daughter's high school, St. Pius X, handed to me to wear this week as a way of showing our condolences for those who died on 9/11. I will now remember him always and keep his family and friends in my prayers.
Ramanan Somaskanda
September 8, 2002
I attended Harley school with Eric from the time I was in 2nd grade until I graduated. Although I wasn't particularly close to him, we always got along pretty well. I even took part in some activities with him such as yearbook and volleyball. As many of the others have mentioned, the thing I remember the most about him was his energy and how he was so full of life. That's why it's hard to believe that he is gone. I would like to pass along my deepest sympathy to his family and friends and may he rest in peace.
Frank Owen
May 30, 2002
I was Eric's academic advisor at the University of Vermont. He was also a student of mine in an introductory drawing class that he probably thought was too rudimentary for him and, of course, in which he did very well. I remember him as a courtly young man with a gentle manner and an ever present grin. As is customary, we met in my office for course planning. But mostly we would briefly stop and chat in the halls of the studio building. He was always confident and looking forward to what was to come next. I can think of no better attitude and remember him with sadness and pride.
Angie Campbell
May 14, 2002
May God Bless you and keep you forever more.
April 10, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL YOUNG MAN..ERIC THOMAS ROPITEAU AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS...STAY CLOSE..PRAY AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK FOREVER..MAY JESUS AND ST.THOMAS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Jensina Chutz
February 26, 2002
Before I met Eric I knew him through his art hanging in my brother's house. Eric was not who I expected him to be after seeing his paintings, but he was exactly the kind of guy you wanted to be around. I know he was a good kid who will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Joshua Chutz
February 24, 2002
Eric was a unique roomate and a true friend. He livened up every room he entered. I am honored to have known and shared my time with him.
Joshua Ryan
February 24, 2002
I can remember the last time I saw Eric, it was in Vermont. We where both visiting from our new homes and our new lives. We only spent about 20 minutes together but I will never forget that brief moment for the rest of my life.
Ellen
February 14, 2002
I pray for you every day. It such a sad thing - losing someone as young as Eric. May you trust in God's plan and may it give you faith. The
World cries with the families of all
that died. God Bless and Keep you while you mourn.
Sarah Pollica
January 6, 2002
I met Eric at UVM the summer of 1999. Of course, like any woman who has had the pleasure of meeting this handsome, charming young man, I was immediately enamored and attracted to his warm and bright smile. I remember talking with him until 3 or 4 in the morning on our first meeting, conversation that seemed to have no end. I also remember playing volleyball with him at our friend's lake house on Champlain and running around in the water and testing our belly flopping skills as we leaped from a wooden raft docked feet from the beach. Eric was always so much fun. He was loved by all of his friends, and always will be. Even though I knew him for a relatively short while, his kindness and spirit will always remain in my heart. I will never forget the summer I spent with him. I can even see his smile right now. I wish his family peace and all the love in the world. Know that Eric would want you to smile again, and to carry all your joyous memories of him in your hearts forever. I'll miss you, Eric.
xxoo Sarah Pollica
Ron Richardson
December 30, 2001
Ron was eric's art teacher. The following is a tribute read by Ron at Eric's funeral.
"I've known eric since he was in second grade... a mischievous, charming, playful little boy. I was one of his art teachers from fifth frage through twelvth, and his advisor through Upper School. He was my friend.
As his art teacher, I was oftern taken by his facility to create images. His drawings were unusually complicated and sophisticated, thought he never seened to be impressed by that himself.
For one assignment in middle school, based on Picasso sculptures, I asked the students to bring to the next class "found" materials that could be combined into a sculpture. Eric casually came to class, of course, with nothing. He looked around the room for ingredients, went outside and added some maple leaves, and with great dexterity made a super heroic sculpture with pencils, paper clips leaves and a variety of erasers that he titled, "Pencil man." He did this with speed and authority, and knew when it was done. I was impressed by what he had done; eric shrugged it off as nothing special. I think he rarely recognized how gifted he was ... in almost everything he did.
And so, I watched him grow into a charming, strong, handsome, mischievous, playful young man. His loss to his family is unfathomable...not credible.
I want him to be here to cheer us up. I don't want his death, and that of the others lost in this atrocity, to have been for nothing.
It seems to me that if anything can come out of this, it will be that people in this country and all over the world use this as a wke-up call to start thinking globally...accepting the reality of an international 21st century, and recognize the obsolete nature of a nationalistic approach.
Ultimatley this is my hope... Then this awful loss can serve a great purpose.
For now...peace Eric.
Teresa Jahn
December 14, 2001
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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