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Stephen P. Russell
Stephen P. Russell
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Stephen Russell Obituary
Stephen P. Russell was a firefighter with Engine Co. 55 in Little Italy. Steve and his fellow firefighters were investigating a gas leak nearby on September 11, 2001. They rushed to the towers and joined other FDNY units in evacuating those moving down from the upper floors.
They called him "MacGyver" at the firehouse. He could fix anything, and do anything that needed to be done. He worked wonders with wood. He was a member of the Carpenters Union. He was so skilled that he built his own furniture and many items for the firehouse as well. He had even built a display case which has now become a memorial to him and his four fellow firefighters who died at the World Trade Center.
Steve was born and raised in Arverne (Rockaway Beach), New York, and lived in his house on Jamaica Bay. Steve loved the water. He was a master scuba diver, a sailor, and an avid water-skier.
Steve was very close to his family. He lived with his parents, Marie and Clifford. His older brother, Clifford, spent many days searching for his brother in the smokey rubble. To his sister-in-law, Christina, he was more than a brother. To his nephew, Evan, he was a protector. To his nephew, Cliff, he was a dive buddy and best friend. To his nephew, Christopher, he was godfather and mentor. To his niece, he was the best uncle a girl could ask for. He often called her his own. Steve was the youngest of three sons. His brother, William, resides in New Hampshire with his wife Adrienne.
We will always remember his big beautiful eyes and his love for life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kim K
June 23, 2024
Kim K
June 23, 2024
Kim K
June 23, 2024
On May 19 I went to visit the 9/11 memorial. Originally I was trying to capture the white rose in contrast to the large city behind it ( with my phone). After that I took a picture with my disposable camera, I just got those pictures back. The picture with the ray of light. Had I known that this picture was hiding in my camera, I would’ve gotten it developed way earlier! All this to say, I truly hope, not only Stephen but everyone that left their life’s behind on that horrific day, have found peace My highest condolences to the family and friends of the victims
Jennifer Faria
September 12, 2021
My best friend, you are always and forever in my heart. Jenny
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Jorge Guimaraes
September 12, 2021
It amazes me that 20 years have already passed since we lost our very good friend Steve!!! It still feels that it happened yesterday. He is gone but not forgotten and his memory and legacy will carry on, forever!!!!
I know it's the same photo, but it' really looks heartwarming with your name on it...xoxo
Katie Lucev-Terino
September 11, 2021
Stevie...xoxo
Katie Terino
May 15, 2021
Happy 60th Birthday in Heaven Stevie. All you childhood friends Love and Think of YOU Often. xoxo
Amy B
July 29, 2019
I read Stephen's bio today at the 9/11 memorial museum and was touched by his father's words. I hope to see the memorial he built before he passed. Hopefully someday. I pray his family finds peace knowing complete strangers are touched by him still. Lost but never forgotten.
In memory of Our Dear Ol' Friend, Stevie. God Bless & RIP.
Katie Terino
September 11, 2018
God Bless & RIP....xoxo
September 13, 2017
Loving thoughts to Stevie and his Family, from the Lucev's and Terino's.....xoxoxo
Katie Terino
September 13, 2017
Happy Birthday in Heaven
Katie Terino
May 13, 2017
Kevin Burt
September 12, 2016
Hi there today I honored your late brother Stephen on 9-12-16 as yesterday marked 15 years since the tragedy. I work for a company that builds fire trucks and couldn't be more proud of those brave men I chose Stephen and every other employee honored a fallen firefighter today.
Joanne Riley
September 11, 2016
I did not know Stephen. Today is the 15th anniversary of the horrific and cowardly act that destroyed many lives....including Stephen and his family. In my town of North Tonawanda, NY we had a memorial for 9/11 victims. There was a flag flown for Every victim and you could purchase a flag and on the flag there is a pouch that has a name date of birth and short bio of that person. My flag had Stephen. My heart aches for him and his family. The proceed for this goes to the wounded veterans of Americas. Just wanted to let this be known. If Stephen's family wants this flag I will mail it to them. It had flown for three days. In rain. Storms. And today in the sun. I mean no disrespect. My email address is [email protected]. Please let me know if you wish for the flag.
Ellen Russell Duffy
September 11, 2016
I did not know Stephen Personally but I met his sister in law I believe when I worked for AAA in Brooklyn 14 years ago. When she found out my last name was Russell, she gave me his mass card and said "Pray for him." I have not ceased praying and thinking of him and his family. He has become my brother in spirit and I will NEVER forget. Love to him and the Russell family.
Katie Lucev
September 7, 2016
Happy Anniversary in Heaven Stevie. All of your Childhood Friends see you as our **HERO**!
God Bless you & YOUR Family...OXOX.
Love The Lucev & Terino Family.
Harry Dorman
September 5, 2016
Steve, My church is remembering 9/11 on this Sunday, the 15th year. I have asked to speak and if I do I will speak of you. Rest in peace. You are forever a HERO.
Harry Dorman
BCHS class of 1979.
Katie Terino
May 13, 2016
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN HEAVEN. ALL OF YOUR CHILDHOOD FRIENDS SEE YOU AS A HERO. WE ALL LOVE & MISS YOU VERY MUCH.
LOVE;
THE LUCEV FAMILY
THE TERINO FAMILY
Pam Castagna-Sardo
December 2, 2015
I had the honor of knowing the Russell family at one time and have remembered Stephen always in my prayers. I remember him often and hope for peace one day. I have a gift I purchased, a statue of St. Joseph, since he loved carpentry, the beautiful statue was blessed by Pope Francis. I will hope to donate the small statue in his name, you are in my heart always Russell family, especially my old friend Christopher. God bless you all always.
Matthew Murphree
September 13, 2015
I was honored to walk for Stephen today in Montgomery Al. I am also a carpenter as well as a firefighter and I was proud to remember him today and the service he has done for his country. You will not be forgotten Brother
David Keenum
September 11, 2015
I had the privilege to carry a PAR tag for Stephen Russell today on our memorial climb here in San Antonio, TX. After reading some of the messages, Stephen seems like a great guy. Although I did not know him, we do the same profession therefore we are brothers. For his family and friends, God Bless you all and I hope you can find peace on this 14th anniversary.
Firefighter David Keenum
September 10, 2015
Happy Anniversary in Heaven. Love The Lucev Family...xo
Christina Russell
February 28, 2015
Not sure what brought me to this site tonight....Maybe seeing all the "55's" ....maybe just because....Miss you...
Jorge Guimaraes
September 13, 2014
Even after 13 years of losing our dear friend Steve, we all continue to long for his presence. We will never forget you!!!
Katie Terino
September 10, 2014
Happy Anniversary in Heaven. All of your childhood friends see you as a Hero. God Bless. xo Katie Terino & the entire Lucev Family.
Jenny Faria
September 10, 2014
You are my hero Stephen Russell.
Katie Terino
May 12, 2014
Before I forget I want to wish you a Happy Birthday in heaven from me and my family, the Lucev's. Never forget!!!
April 7, 2014
:-) :-) :-) Thank You for the fun-loving dream, my friend! :-) :-) :-) Always friends, Katie Terino
April 7, 2014
:-) :-) :-) Thank You for the really fun & loving dream, my friend! :-) :-) :-)
Jenny Faria
September 15, 2013
It seems like yesterday I saw your dreams in those cute eyes of yours. Belize was so beautiful because u made us special. We both knew then this was it. I'll always remember u telling me I see u opposite me in a rocking chair. U made my life complete.
September 14, 2013
I have to share that on the evening of Sept. 11th, I was channel surfing. I stopped on a channel that was rebroadcasting the WTC Memorial Services in NYC. Behold, within the first five minutes, Stephen P. Russell was called out. Thank you Stevie for that moment. xo :-) Love, Katie Terino
September 14, 2013
We are always thinking about you and your family during these difficult times of the year. God bless. The Lucev Family. xoxoxxoxo
Glen Rivara
September 11, 2013
It's been 12 years Stevie but I'm reminded of you every day when I go to work. I will be moving on from downtown one day soon but I won't forget you. I hope you are at peace. One day we will race our row boats again in bluer waters.
Jennifer Faria
September 9, 2013
I think of you each & every day Steve. Tears stains my face, you‘ve invaded my dreams for years, only to wake up to the nightmare that you‘re gone from this life. I will love you forever & always. Jenny xoxo
Jacqueline DaSilva
September 8, 2013
You had one of the cutest accents I‘ve ever heard, and I could never understand you. Steve you were a beautiful light, a sweet soul, our hero. We love & miss you, Jenny & Jacquie xo
May 3, 2013
Happy Birthday Stevie. My best wishes (xo), Katie Lucev
May 1, 2013
Hi I am Ethan.I am so sorry for your loss. Stephen seemed like a great man who just had a love for life. I am researching Stephen for a project and i would appreciate it if you get back to me with information about Stephen and his brave acts.
September 11, 2012
Remembering you today, and missing you always.
Katherine Lucev
May 15, 2012
Happy Birthday Stevie. We all miss you. xoxo
October 9, 2011
10 years steve, and you are missed just as much now..even more...we will never forget..love, cindy, chris and sarah
Katie Lucev-Terino
September 10, 2011
I saw your name last week engraved at the 9/11 memorial in Syracuse, New York during the New York State Fair. A record 46, 771 people attended that day. Love & still miss you Stevie..xoxo
tom kereszti
September 10, 2011
remembering our young days in Rockaway.
it was my honor to know you
Jorge Guimaraes
September 10, 2011
You will never be forgotten my friend. You can now dive in the most beautiful oceans of this universe and are probably enjoying a cup of coffee with our beloved friend Jane. We will always remember you.
Steve Cohen
September 7, 2011
Miss seeing you around the peninsula, friend. Until we meet again...
Katie Lucev
May 22, 2011
May 19th.
HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY STEVIE..XXOXO
May 2, 2011
They finally got him, Steve.
Now you can finally rest in peace.
Miss you every day...
Love you always,
Laurie
Adrienne Russell
October 12, 2010
Thinking of you.
September 10, 2010
Stevie it's 9 years now and I still think of you every day. I wonder if peace will ever come to any of us. I pray for you and everyone who lost and was lost.
Katie Lucev
September 8, 2010
There is a 9/11 Memorial in Syracuse, NY with a piece of the WTC building on display. Today on the memorial, I found your name. I could not stop the tears from forming in my eyes. xo
Dorothy Molloy
May 5, 2010
You were one of my dearest friends growing up. The years had separated us and then you were taken in 911. My heart breaks every day from your loss. I wish I could have spoken to you. I will always treasure you and your friendship. Happy Birthday in Heaven. Love you always!!
Katie Lucev
May 5, 2010
Happy Birthday Stevie. xoxox (May 19th)
Catherine Ventura
April 13, 2010
I recently went to WTC site with my cousin,Retired FF Edward Kennedy Ladder 44. I purchased a commerative bracelet and on it reads; Stephen Russell FF. I proudly wear it for him and all who gave their lives. Catherine Kennedy-Ventura, Mahopac, NY
September 14, 2009
Hey Steve--
I think of you everyday and miss you so very much.
Love you always,
Laurie
Doug Abraham
May 19, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Christina Russell
May 7, 2009
Thoughts of you run thru my mind every day...Missing you....Chris
Christina Russell
November 30, 2008
Its already December and the year seems to be flying by. September 11th continued as a day to remember your heroic efforts. Everyday continues to remind us of your warmth and humor.
Christna Russell
July 4, 2008
You would be so proud of one nephew for becoming a NY city fireman and following in your footsteps and for another for just becoming a dad to a baby girl. I know you are with all of them....Never a day goes by without thoughts of you...."Me
Doug Abraham
May 19, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Christina Russell
February 21, 2008
Oh how we miss you !
Glen Rivara
September 22, 2007
Stevie
I still think of you everyday. I'm down there where you left us every day. Sometimes I think healing is a slow process and sometimes I wonder if it's ever possible to be healed. I keep reminding myself how you were the living embodiment of what it is to be alive. I know that you would want people to remember you by living life to the fullest and passing on the light you gave us all.
Christina Russell
September 15, 2007
Wish we could turn back the hands of time......Miss you as always
"Me" Chris
Christina Russell
September 13, 2007
Sixth year and a dreary day it was...Always thinking of you...."Me
Chris
September 9, 2007
Thinking of you Stephen.
God Bless you and your family.
Nancy Nee
sister of FF George Cain..ladder 7
kristine
May 1, 2007
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
February 25, 2007
In memory....
John Russell
October 17, 2006
I didn't know Stephen Russell - but when I read his name on the list of victims when my my wife Mary and I visited Ground Zero in April 2006 it sent shivers through my body that a Russell had died so needlessly . Such a terrible waste of a young life - my heart goes out to his family and may his memory live forever
Christina Russell
September 12, 2006
Although five years has past , it seems like just yesterday. If we could only turn back the hands of time....Miss you always,love "Me"
demonsurfer
September 12, 2006
It was an honor to write a tribute_to_911_victim_stephen_russell for you as part of the 2996 Project.
Christina Russell
September 18, 2005
Thinking of you always............
"Me"
Laurie
May 19, 2005
Hey Steve-
Thoughts of you and birthdays past. Hugs to you as always.
Missing you so very much.
Love you-
Laurie
peggie denni
April 16, 2005
hi steve this peggie the one who went out with u i really miss i will always remember u in my heart
December 25, 2004
Hugs to you, today and always!
Miss you-
Love always,
Me
(the me since we were kids)
Christina Russell
September 29, 2004
You will forever be in our hearts and minds.........Sept 11th at the firehouse will never be the same........ Miss sharing exciting news with you.....and water of course...Love always "me Chris
August 22, 2004
Hey Steve-
Been thinking of you so much the past 2 weeks. I guess with all the birthdays and all the times we spent together during the summer it was only natural. I spent my Dad's birthday with Sandy. We talked a lot about you and my Dad. She thinks of you often and she, Brian and Emma are doing very well.
I miss my Dad so much. But, I know you and he are together, probably in front of the fireplace or on the porch haveing tea and chatting. He loved you so very much, but I'm sure you know that!!
So much has changed since you're gone. I knew my life would never be the same, but I had no idea the changes that were in store. Well, what can you do? Everyone has to make their own choices in life. Anyway, enough of that. I have a new kitten, you would love him!! He's a doll and he and Jaxie play well together.
So, just wanted to tell you I miss you, and that I love you.
Please tell my Dad how much I love and miss him.
Hugs and kisses to you both-
Laurie
Christina Russell
July 27, 2004
Dearest Stevie,
As I sit here I'm looking at a picture of you and Erika walking down the block for her Confirmation...This years vacation was to Mexico.The first night there we had your mass card posted at Oscar and Lalos...we felt that this is a place you would have enjoyed....we know you were there with us....you are forever in our hearts and minds......Just wanted to drop a line.....love always..Chris
Laurie McCorgray
May 19, 2004
Stevie-
Thinking of you today.
Missing you everyday.
With love always,
Laurie
Christina Russell
May 6, 2004
Dearest Steve,
It's almost time for Erika's Sweet Sixteen. You will surely be missed at the affair. It promises to to be a spectacular event just like all the events that have been planned in your honor. Lil Cliff just received his "list number" for the firedept list. I'm sure Christopher will get his tomorrow. You must be so proud of all of your nephews and niece. You meant so much to all of us and you were such a fine example to our beautiful children. Your death has brought our family even closer together. We have managed to find a kind of peace and comfort within our hearts and minds. We have met and continue to meet wonderful, caring and loving people everywhere we go and we continue to carry on your legacy. Till next time........The "TRUE" "ME" Chris
April 23, 2004
Hey Steve--
Just a quick hello. Haven't been here in a long while.
Not much point in giving you a blow by blow description of things that have gone on, seeing as you've been here for everything. Getting to be the time of year you loved so much and I couldn't help but think of you, so I wrote.
There are so many who need your love and prayers-don't forget them, they need your prayers more than they know.
Just know that you are loved and missed.
Love you always-
Me
Uncle Steve and Me
Christina Russell
March 19, 2004
Dearest Steve,
Well, Cliff returned about three weeks ago,proud and safe.He experienced first hand what it is like to be serving our country. Every night when he would entertain the men and women, he would tell them of your bravery and sacrifice just like theirs. Thank you for taking care of him.....oh..and thanks for taking care of Erika too.....whenever she is not so sure of herself or her feelings she puts on your medalion and it reminds her of you and gives her a great feeling of confidence. We think of you always, as well as love and miss you........Chris
Christina Russell
February 7, 2004
Dearest Stevie,
Well your brother Cliff has set off on his adventure to Iraq. He hopes to find answers and an understanding of the people. Hopefully he will have found some sort of peace of mind when he returns. He will visit 6 different countries and tell your story as well as display your picture. We are all proud of how he has chosen to honor you and will continue to. Please watch over him........Day and Night.... Christina
Adrienne Russell
December 24, 2003
Merry Christmas, Baby!!
Thinkin' of you, A&B
November 24, 2003
Dear Stevie,
So much has happened since I last visited this site.We had a wonderfully beautiful day for your street naming. All your friends, neighbors, relatives and so many more were there. The fire boat spraying the bay water was a beautiful site. And now your name proudly hangs on the street you lived. Then there was the family get together where Tricia opened a treasure chest full of pictures. It was great to see everyone together,sitting,chatting, laughing and having a good time. Billy, Erika and Diana have become some team. I never realized how funny he could be. But no matter where we are or what function we are at....we know you are right there by our side. Shortly your brother Cliff will be taking another trip on your behalf. It will be quite an adventure...but it is something he must do....so keep an eye on him...I know you will !
November 3, 2003
Just wanted to say hey.
Hugs-
Rhonda Cohen
September 12, 2003
To My Steve -
You were the love of my life and you always will be. Now that the 2-year anniversary has passed, I feel the loss more strongly than ever. I will never, ever forget you, sweetie. Our memories are locked inside my heart...
Miss and love you,
Ronnie (aka, Rhonster) :)
Laurie
September 11, 2003
Dearest Steve-
I miss you today--and every day.
You're in my heart.
Love you,
Laurie
Rachel Victor
September 11, 2003
Hey Stevie,
It's been 2 long years and I still think of you often. Miss you!!
Love Rachel
Laurie
September 11, 2003
I miss you today--and every day.
You're in my heart.
Love you,
Laurie
The Russell Clan
July 19, 2003
Dearest Steve,
You travel everywhere with us.....Most recently we visited the firehouse in Rincon, Puerto Rico."Los Bomberos" were proud to include your picture and our book in their display case. There is never a moment that you are not with us. Forever in our hearts and minds.....
cindy george
July 1, 2003
hey steve! it's been awhile since i've said hi, but i just wanted to let you know that i'm thinking about you, but you know that already! this is such a wonderful place to write down your thoughts. i know it doesnt' matter to you if someone just says hi, or writes a book to you! i know you love it! so many people love you, and there are so many emotions, people need to write it down in any way they can. i am grateful for a "place" like this where i can write down my thoughts and share it with others. i will never forget you steve, chris and sarah think about you too!and louie, and my mom! i know you hope people are respectful here and feel as though they can write their loving thoughts to you, it does amaze me how many people, even strangers, share their thoughts with you! how lucky you are! but the true lucky ones are the people who got to have you in their lives, i am one of those lucky ones, steve, i do miss ya! talk to you again sometime!
Us
June 2, 2003
Dearest Steve,
We don't need to write any long winded speeches to prove our love for you........We are secure in how you feel and how we feel too.....Love always .......Us
Rebecca Frost
June 1, 2003
Hi Steve
I am a friend of your cousin and she recently told me about you.You are truly are a hero in every sense of the word. I am so sorry your life was ended way too short and for the sorrow your family and friends have gone through and continue to go through.I know you are looking down on them and are with them at all times.My 8 year old daughter knows how dangerous it is to be a firefighter and wanted to say she was glad you had rescued some of the people but she is also sad that you are not with us anymore.
We will not forget you and everyone else who died.
Cami Kalman
May 26, 2003
Steve,
Hi I am a friend of your cousin's. She told us about you tonight on a message board and I wanted to give my thanks to you. You are a hero who did so much to aid new york on the awful day of the terrorist attacks. Thank you so much for your herroism, you must have been an amazing person.
cami
Carole Jeter
May 26, 2003
Steve,
I am a friend of your cousin, who told me about you and this site. I just want to say that you are a hero to this country. You gave the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the safety of others. For that I will always be grateful as all American's should. Thank you for what you gave to this great country. I would love to have known you. Your cousin says you were her best friend and protector. From the looks of you, I can believe it. You have a wonderful face. God Bless and keep you.
Carole Jeter
Long Beach, CA
Laurie McCorgray
May 19, 2003
Hey Stevie--
It's your birthday today, and I miss you even more than usual.
Mish graduated from college yesterday--pretty cool- but then I know you were there.
You should have been 42 today, with your whole life still ahead of you, but instead "they" took it away--just like they took you away from all of us.
I know you know how much I miss you and how I desparately wish you were still here. I know you're still with me, but it's not the same. We all found some old pics and there was one of you and me on the fire engine ride at Playland. You were 3 and I was 2. I still can't get past the unfortunate truth, that our life together is over. I still go on, but only because you make me. I need to thank you for February 21st. You don't, actually you do, know how much I needed that to happen.
I still can't believe it's almost 2 years since you were taken from me, from all of us. I still wonder, sometimes, how to make it through for the many years to come. Just knowing you're there waiting, with the tea kettle on helps. I'll bring the Entenmann's chocolate chip cookies.
Know that you are in my thoughts, in my heart every second of every day. Eye spy with my little eye, your smile every where I turn. I miss you, Sweetie and I love you more than life itself. God bless you and keep you close and may you keep me just as close.
I will see you in the stars and in the sea, Angel. Look for me, I am always there.
Happy Birthday Stevie-
I love you with all I am and miss you even more.
Laurie
xoxoxoxox
April 15, 2003
I visit this site every day (sometimes twice a day) just to see your smiling face.............
"Me"
John Russell
March 26, 2003
Our church made and displayed crosses for all the victims. Then they were handed out at random after mass, we got yours Steve.
Although we never met. We look out at our flower garden where the cross is and think about you. I've only seen that kind of courage once before. Viet Nam!!
March 5, 2003
There's just so much to say, but you already know.........We think of you every second, every minute, every hour, every day.............
Laurie McCorgray
December 25, 2002
Hey Cuz-
Merry Christmas! It's going to be a typical New England Christmas this year--the snow is supposed to start after breakfast and just keep going. Should be great skiing, just the way you like it!! I'm heading to John and Tricia's house after work this morning--Christmas morning with Emma and Annie--always great.
I miss you so much, Steve, we all do. Keep watch over all of us and know that we love you.
Love you-
Laurie
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