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Michael Lynch Obituary
In a family of 10 children like the Lynches -- this one Democrat, that one Republican, some of them independents -- disagreements happen. And at family dinners, Michael, the seventh oldest, was peacemaker. He would don a silly hat, utter a one-liner, and "they would just realize we shouldn't take ourselves too seriously," said his father, Jack.
Michael Lynch, 31, was a firefighter with Ladder Company 32 in the Bronx, and diffused the tension there too. Every time a Federal Express truck drove by station, he would yell, "WILSON!" and run after it like Tom Hanks in "Cast Away." Out on call, he would scream at his friend Bill Owens from the back of the truck, "O-WEN!" — as the horrible mother does to Danny Devito in "Throw Momma From the Train."
In November, Firefighter Lynch was scheduled to marry Stephanie Luccioni. But the Lynch family has a news video of Michael and firefighters from Engine Company 40, where he was on rotation on Sept. 11, responding to the World Trade Center attack. In it, Michael Lynch's face is somber. It was about 9:44 a.m. The men were rushing down a stairwell in 4 World Trade Center, and heading underground toward the south tower.
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 15, 2001.
Michael F. Lynch, 30, of Bronx, New York, a firefighter with Engine62/Ladder 32 of the New York Fire Department who was on rotation to Engine 40, died saving others in the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Michael, the seventh of ten children born to Kathleen V. and Jack Lynch, was engaged to be married to Stephanie Luccioni on November 16.
Michael was a gentle, loving person who was known for his quick humor and love of life. He was an avid fisherman, outdoorsman, and sports lover. He coached a children's soccer team and was a well known DJ who played at many local and charitable events. He once worked for Dean Witter in the World Trade Center but left that job to fulfill his dream of becoming a firefighter. Michael will be remembered by his family and friends as a brave and kind person who made us laugh and brought joy to our lives. We miss him terribly.
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Deb L
September 8, 2019
Michael, I didn't know you but it doesn't matter. You sacrificed your life to help save so many others on that horrible day. My husband and I just got back a few minutes ago where we participated in the 911 motorcycle Remembrance ride. They had a bunch of cards there that had fallen emergency workers names and pictures on them. They said we could get one and then that person would ride with us on the Remembrance ride. Awesome! I grabbed a card out of the pile. It was Michael's. I started to cry as I seen it was a firefighter. I hold a special place in my heart for all emergency workers, but especially for firefighters. You see, my youngest son was a volunteer firefighter for 13 years and worked his way up to lieutenant. No matter where we were... family dinner, Christmas or just sitting around talking, as soon as that sound came over his radio, he was out the door with lights flashing as he floored it going down the road. I am so proud of MY HERO, but as a mom, I always said a prayer for him because I knew there was always a chance he may not come back. I am so grateful that God always protected him and his buddies. As for Michael and all other fallen firefighters and emergency workers all over, you will always be heros to me. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you so much for your sacrifice,
michelle
September 11, 2014
Though I never had the privilege of meeting you, last Sunday I participated in the Clayton 9/11 Stair Climb in your honor. I thank you for your commitment and making the ultimate sacrifice to save so many. We will never forget!
S J. Friscia III
May 27, 2014
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Lanny Wilson Jr
February 16, 2014
Was just thinking about you.
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Beverly Romako
September 10, 2013
Michael you are missed much by many! I was a witness to the events of that day and I prayed so much watching everything unfold. I know you now sit with the angels and your loved ones. My heart is with your entire family. Tweleve years has passed but I know your loss is still felt immensly. The Lynch's are a beautiful family who have endured much. May God remain with them each and every day and thank you for being the beautiful person you were to so many. My love to your family....
Tammy Fecher
September 11, 2012
thinking of you today.
Caroline Hammond
September 9, 2011
With Love & Gratitude
Another of Michaels Brothers!
Johnny Lynch
November 11, 2010
As one of 16 Lynch's which 9 are the best brothers one could have and of those 9 are three firefighters and there was 5 at one time, I can relate to Michael great humor. I have always felt that fireman choose this career and must deal with all the consequences that come along with the fire service. This was Michael choice and what a great one it was. He will forever be wearing that rolled-up sleeved tee-shirt, those sexy bunkers (as the woman would say) and that proud hat. May he stand with a smile with my brothers some day and always be in the LYNCH hall of hero's.
Brother Jim is the Training Chief for the City of Denver.
Brigid Brown
September 11, 2010
We will never forget...Thank You.
Steven Avon
September 12, 2009
To the Lynch Family,
I was at St. Frances de Chantal Church on Sept. 10, 2009 for the funeral of my grandmother when I saw the memorial there for Michael. I was unaware of his passing on 9-11-01. As a child I lived across the street from Michael at 2936 Lawton Ave. We were the same age. We played together with the neighborhood kids and we were in the same grade at St. Frances de Chantal School. I moved away when I was 9yrs. old and lost touch with Michael. We had not spoke since 1979 but I will NEVER forget him. May God bless the Lynch Family. Please accept my condolences, Steven Avon
Brigid Brown
September 11, 2009
Mikeeeeee,
On this the most somber of days..letting you and your loved ones know how dearly you are missed..it never gets easier..you are our hero.
~The Brown Family~
September 12, 2008
We will never forget! Thank you for your sacrifice. May God bless your family with peace and love.
Brigid Brown
September 11, 2008
Mikeeeee,
Missing You always..
May God continue to shower You and Yours in His Love,
~Bridgie~
September 11, 2008
Mike - Thinking of you today...you will always be remembered
Doug Abraham
December 12, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
P Tabbernor
December 16, 2006
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 14, 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.
Juli Finora Corrigan
September 11, 2006
I lived in Throgs Neck and went to Cardinal Spellman high school with Michael's sister, Colleen. We were a couple of years behind Michael. I was good friends with Colleen and remember Michael as being very funny, kind and handsome. I actually had a crush on him when we were in high school! I send my sympathy and condolences to the Lynch family. I will keep Michael and all of the Lynches in my thoughts and prayers forever. Michael was a great person. With Love, Juli Finora Corrigan
Sarah
September 11, 2006
As I remember the tragedy of September 11, 2001, I remembered a silver bracelet given to me by a friend in college. These bracelets each have a name engraved, and mine bears Michael's. It is an honor to remember him and all who gave their lives on that day. I just wanted you to know that I am honoring him today and every day by wearing this bracelet. I know that you continue to feel your loss today and every day, and my sympathies are with you.
Dawn Aldridge
August 15, 2006
To the Loved Ones Of Micheal Lynch,
My name is Dawn Aldridge. I am a nurse in Cincinnati Ohio. After 9/11 I read the book Firehouse and was deeply touched by the lives and outstanding character of each of these 12 men. While I am convinced that all 343 firefighters who died that day were all very honorable men but I do not have the oppurtunity to know all of their individual stories. So because I know the stories of these 12 men I choose to remember them. Everytime I find myself forgetting details about them I read the book again. I have read it 10 times so far. Micheal was quite the character. You had to love his sense of humor. I too am from a large family and I have a brother who is also named Mike with this kind of humor. This is a very effective coping mechanism to stay ahead in such a large family. I am so sure that humor served him well in the fire department. I know he is sorely missed. It must have been difficult for him to not have been with his own company that day, but I am sure that for all who have read the book Firehouse you know he was in great company with those men. I am so sorry for your loss. These 12 men where all such great guys. It is so hard to accept that I am hearing about them because they are gone. I want you to know that I will not forget Michael. I will read Firhouse again and again, and every Sept. 11 I will say prayers for all the families and I will light a candle in their Honor. I have my own personal tribute to these 12 men in my home, so that when others come to my house they will know about Michael Lynch. I too have suffered great loss and I know that every anniversary is difficult, so I will keep you all in my prayers. May God bring you comfort and peace. Michael, May you rest in peace. Sincerely, Dawn Aldridge, RN
Mary Wysong
August 10, 2006
May God Bless you and keep you safe with him. You gave the ultimate sacrfice for America, and it does not go unappreciated.
James Johnson
September 11, 2005
God Bless You...
Arnell Hill
May 6, 2005
Reading about the humorous exploits of Michael, I could tell his daily presence is deeply missed. I never met him, but can appreciate the laughter he brought to the lives of others.
Kristina Lopez
September 11, 2004
I was a classmates of Michaels and I just wanted to send my prayers to his family. He always made me laugh and smile and I will never forget him. God Bless.
Kerrie Powers
December 5, 2003
I came across this poem and it reminded me of Michael and his life.
Celebration of Life
You can shed tears because he is gone,
Or you can smile because he has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he'll come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all he's left.
Your heart can be empty, because you cannot see him,
Or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember him and only that he's gone,
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back,
Or you can do what he'd want; SMILE, OPEN YOUR EYES AND GO ON !
GOD BLESS YOU MICHAEL !
Sue O'Dwyer
September 11, 2003
My thoughts are with you and the entire family on this very sad day. I pray that the Lynch family stays strong.
Doreen Daly Niemann
September 11, 2003
It's been a long time since I've seen anyone from the Lynch family. I grew up in Silver Beach and knew you through the McCarrick's. For me, Michael will always be one of the "little kids"; I regret that I did not know him as he grew into a wonderful man.I think of you all often and pray that you are all well. I just went to the website (Michael Lynch Memorial Foundation) and was delighted to see all of the pictures of Michael and the family. The foundation is doing wonderful work. What a great tribute to a terrific person. God has blessed your family in many ways. I admire your strength and family unity. Take care.
Patrick Boyle
September 11, 2003
To all The Lynch Family on Michael's second anniversary in Heaven. From The Boyle and Donoghues
Nancy Gayle Warren
September 11, 2003
Rest in Peace. You are a true hero. MAY GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU IN HEAVEN.
Mauro Piccininni
September 11, 2003
My God Contiune to Bless and Comfort the Lynch Family.
William Magliano
September 11, 2003
I did not know Michael, but knew other members of the Lynch family as a student at Cardinal Spellman High School in the Bronx, including his brother/my classmate Patrick (Class of '83). My deepest heartfelt sympathies to the entire Lynch family and friends who no doubt continue to miss Michael to this day. Also, God bles the NYFD and NYPD for all they have done and continue to do for us.
Bill Magliano
Bronx, NY
Dave & Janice Dougherty
September 11, 2003
Our thoughts & prayers are with you today & always. Even though we didn't know Michael, through Fred & Ruth and by looking at his web site (the Michael Lynch foundation), we know what a beautiful, humorous person the world lost on 9/11. God Bless you & keep you.
Carl Weinberg
September 11, 2003
My name is Carl and I have a short but very story about Michael. As everyone knows Michael and Stephanie were supposed to get married. Well through mutual friends and being neighborhood aquaintances they had come to Jerome Florist to book their wedding flowers. At that time I was in charge of handling all of the weddings for Jerome. They were very happy and we easily selected the bouqets, centerpieces etc... When all was said and done we had hit it off so well that they invited me to stop in at the THROGS NECK CLIPPER where stephanie was bartender and michael was a D.J. anyway, I never thought that invitation would change my life. On march 31 2001 I was on my way home from a boring evening with a friend, I decided to stop and visit Michael and Stephanie for a drink. I hadn't been to the "CLIPPER" to much but they were there and had asked me to stop by sometime. That night I met a girl named Liz and I am very proud to say that on 9-28-02 we were married and will be celebrating our 1st anniversary in less than 3 weeks. I always say that if it weren't for michael my wife and I would not have met.
Thank you MICHAEL and we miss you Carl and LIZ Vagueiro-Weinberg
Betty Cahill
December 2, 2002
Dear Kathleen, Jack and family, You have been in my thoughts and prayers all these months since 9/11. There are no words that can properly convey my sympathy. My heart goes out to you all. Love and prayers. Betty
Trina Slade-Burks
September 30, 2002
I am a Spellman alum, class of 86. This is indeed a profound loss to our community. I feel your pain & our prayers are w/you all.
God bless.
Michelle W
September 11, 2002
I met Michael's brothers this weekend at Grooms on the Green, in Ocean City Maryland. I could tell Michael was very much loved and dearly MISSED. As much as I heard about him on Saturday, 9/7, I couldn't dare not sign his guest book. To all the guys from "The Bronx" in Ocean City for the golf trip, our prayers are with you, and we will never forget.
Madie Fournier
September 9, 2002
I didn't know Michael or his family, but I wish to extend my sympathies and prayers.
Marianne V.
August 7, 2002
If you lived in or near Throggs Neck in the Bronx and went to Cardinal Spellman High School, chances are you knew the Lynchs. I am just one of those many people. I never knew Michael but I waitressed at the Throggs Neck Country Club where Patrick and Kevin also worked. I remember them both as funny, helpful and outgoing people who were fun to work with....from what I've read about Michael it seemed to run in the family! My deepest sympathies to such a wonderful family. May you find strenght in all who remember and pray for you. God Bless.
Tracy McGriskin
July 24, 2002
To the Lynch family on Parson and Sanford in Flushing. We were already gone to Florida when Michael was born but I remember the family on our many trips back to Flushing. Playing in the street and out in front of the apartment. My love and prayers go out to all of you.
Tracy McGriskin (Jack and Connies's daughter)
Jennifer Ciavirella
July 18, 2002
I never knew Michael, but did know members of his family particulary paul. So, I offer my wishes of condolences and you are in my prayers. God bless the Lynch family during thier time of loss and always.
Dan D'Allara
July 8, 2002
To the Lynch family,
We have traveled in the same circles before and after 9/11. I know now that we have some of the same friends.
Our families and many other rescue families paid a very steep price that morning.
I have passed Mr. Lynch many times at the site but have been to busy to stop.
We laid my brother, NYPD/ESU Officer John D'Allara to rest on 6/11/02.
I have come to realize that behind the true meaning of the word hero, there is a family that grieves.
That is how our families are bonded.
I will never forget.
KEN BANKER
June 5, 2002
AND THE ANGEL SAID TO THE FIREMAN WEEP NOT FOR THE LORD HAS CALL THEM HOME.
Cheryl Bedell
June 4, 2002
I never knew Michael, but I wear his name on my wrist. I wear a Mercy Band and it reminds me to pray for Michael's family every day. I pray for strengh and courage, I pray for peace and comfort and I pray that God will not let Michael's death be in vain. My promise to the Lynch family and Stephanie is that I will continue to pray for all of you as long as I have the bracelet. May God richly bless you and those you love.
Michael Iezzi
May 8, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Michael to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
Angie Campbell
May 4, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
MIKE SUSAN MICHAEL AND SHANNON BYRNE BYRNE FAMILY
April 28, 2002
OUR FAMILY WILL ALWAYS PRAY FOR MICHAEL. WE MET MIKE THROUGH MY COUSINS, SHAUN AND BRIAN. WE'LL NEVER FORGET WHAT A GREAT GUY AND A FUNNY PERSON HE ALWAYS WAS. HE'S A HERO AND WE WILL ALL MISS HIM DEARLY. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO TO THE ENTIRE LYNCH FAMILY.
LOVE, MIKE & SUE BYRNE AND FAMILY
Ray Morris
March 28, 2002
We lost so much on that horrible morning. As your family and friends mourn your loss, so do we, the anonymous millions who never knew you. Our nation is so much poorer for your loss. I wonder if you'd be anticipating the beginning of this baseball season, or how you'd spend this spring, and I think how could those cowards? God grant you rest and thank you for a life well lived but ended far too soon.
Roger Lang
March 14, 2002
roger lang
Chris Arricale
March 12, 2002
Michael,
We played together as children years ago and, although I barely knew you, I was very sad but extremely proud of you when I heard that you had sacrificed your life trying to save so many others. God Bless you and your loved ones, and thank you for showing the rest of us the best of humanity.
Nick Fasciglione
March 11, 2002
Mike was my classmate at Spellman. He was one of the funniest guys there. I regret that we didn't keep in touch after graduation and I'll really miss him at next year's reunion. Mike is a true hero. I offer the Lynch family my deepest sympathies.
Joan Linehan-Prontiker
February 26, 2002
I'm a friend of AnnMarie's, Michael's cousin. I don't know Michael very well, but can remember being in the home of Michael's family a few times when AnnMarie and I were in High School. I can only remember alot of kids, alot of fun, and alot of love. I too lost my brother in the WTC on 9/11 so my heart goes out to Michael's family and I pray every day that our families and all the families will be strong. Rest In Peace.
February 26, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL HERO FIREMAN..MICHAEL F.LYNCH AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY...STEPHANIE..AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY JESUS AND ST.MICHAEL GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEM
Peter Gilheany
February 1, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all members of the extended Lynch family.
Jane Ill
February 1, 2002
Dear Michael,
I never had the joy of meeting you, but meeting your family has brought great comfort and happiness to me and my family. Your Mom and Dad are such great people. I now consider them new friends. Your Dad works tirelessly at finding you and in gathering as much information as possible on all our concerns - he unites us. I'm sure you would be as proud of him as he so very clearly is of you. It also seems like you had an endless number of friends...you must have been "somethin' else" for you are well loved.
Love,
Jane Ill
p.s. Look for Capt. Fred Ill
Linda
February 1, 2002
I didn't know you, but I can tell from the other messages in this book, you were the kind of person everyone loved to be around.
God rest your soul and grant your family the strength to go on without you.
aggie cochrane
January 31, 2002
Still praying for you Michael and your family who miss you so much. Your courage and heroism give so many the strength to go on.
Owen, Spanky & Bailey
Sarah
January 5, 2002
I wanted to leave a message because this memorial for Michael made me smile and laugh. What a wonderful sense of humor. He seems like one of my husbands friends. My husband and I (and several of his friends) also have private jokes from the sentences used in "Throw Momma From The Train." My husband gave me a Shar-pei puppy (a fat wrinkle dog). The puppy followed me everywhere and just loved me. My husband said (in the momma voice), "OWEN Loves his Momma." We both started laughing and said let's name him Owen which we did. I am sure Michael touched many lives while he was here and those of you who knew him probably have a ton of wonderful memories. Please let all of the wonderful things about him help you through the difficult days!! Sincerely, Sarah from Minnesota
Teresa Jahn
December 24, 2001
We are extremely sorry for your loss of Michael. We thank him for dedicating his life to help others as a firefighter and a positive role model for the charities he helped. Such dedication to others comes with a brave, warm and caring heart full of love for his fellow man. May Michael's humor, positive attitude, peacemaking abilities, life and love continue living through all who love him. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Judy Cherbonneau
December 7, 2001
Michael, rest in peace with God! My sympathies go out to your family, loved ones and fellow comrades!
Terry Carigliano
December 5, 2001
Mike we all miss you terribly. Don't stop playing the music. All our love and prayers.
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