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Eric Olsen Obituary
What Taube and Barbara Olsen recall about their son was his ability to see things not as they were, but as they could be.
They said their boy, Eric Taube Olsen, had a passion for finding the beauty in an old car that might seem little more than a busted-up clunker.
They said he enjoyed whittling away the hours with a block of wood and turning it into something more. They say he loved working in stained glass, and the way it could change the color of light.
Firefighter Olsen, 41, a firefighter with Ladder Company 15, had a particular fondness for collecting Cadillacs from the 1940's. In all, he had acquired 11 vehicles, including one old fire engine.
On the morning of Sept. 11, Firefighter Olsen and a buddy, Arthur T. Barry, another off-duty firefighter, were planning on tinkering with one of the cars. Instead, they rushed off to the World Trade Center.
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Syed S
September 12, 2023
Hello, I am an 8th grader from Connecticut doing a project about a person who died on 9/11, I just wanted to say that Eric looked like such a nice guy, and I was just inspired by his heroism. May you live on in everyone's hearts Eric.
Deanna Cagnina
September 11, 2023
Uncle Eric & Kathy,
I miss you both so much!
Thank you for visiting me the night before my wedding and shining light that lead me to this photo and aunt Kathy’s garter.
I love you and miss you both so much and a day doesn’t go by without thinking of you both.
My guardian angels
Richard M.
November 25, 2022
Eric, I served with your brother in the Navy. I knew of your selfless sacrifice but it really hit home with me today when I saw your picture at the National 9-11 Museum today. I hope you have found peace and we will not forget.
Madison Smith
May 4, 2016
Hello I am an 8th grader in Maryland. I was chosen to make a Tribute to Eric and our class is taking a trip to New York. I thank Eric for being a hero.
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S J. Friscia III
January 13, 2016
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Yazzie
December 13, 2014
I don't know Eric personally. I was in sixth grade when 911 happened, and the months after my school did a memorial where everyone received a name of one of the 911 victims. I don't know Eric, but I have never forgotten his name. I am now a firefighter myself, and its heroes like him that have inspired me.
A tribute to a hero and friend.
Greg Nemeth
July 10, 2014
Gregory Nemeth
July 10, 2014
Visit 9/11 on vacation and placed flags at Eric's name. Very emotional moment for me that most onlookers did not understand.
Greg Nemeth
September 12, 2013
May your memories go unforgotten.
annmarie babino-murphy
September 11, 2013
Dearest Eric and Kathy,
Not a day goes by that I don't think of you with love. Missing you both.
Ranie Bojko
September 11, 2012
Remembering you today.
KATHY SCHLOTTERBECK
September 11, 2012
WE REMEMBER RIP
annmarie babino-murphy
September 11, 2012
Dearest Eric and Kathy,
Today is such a horriable day for this nation. I love and miss you both. Til we meet again.
Gregory Nemeth
September 10, 2012
Dear Eric & Kathy, Again another anniversary of you both joining each other again. I pray that you are both in the loving hands of our God and that each of you are embrased with loving arms. All my love and best, Greg
annmarie babino-murphy
May 28, 2012
Dearest Kathy and Eric,
Well here is your name sake she turns Sweet 16 today. Imagine?? Please continue to watch over us. I love and miss you. Give daddy a kiss and a hug for me. Until we meet again...A
AnnMarie Babino-Murphy
April 8, 2012
Dearest Kathy and Eric, Wishing you a Happy Easter in Heaven at God's table. If you see "Daddy" give him a hug and kiss from us....maybe an extra one from me. Please continue to watch over us as you both know what we aare going through at this time. Know that I will always love you. Until we meet again. With all my love, AnnMarie
annmarie babino-murphy
February 16, 2012
Dearest Kathy and Eric....a belated Happy Valentine's Day to you both. Shotsie I need you right now.
annmarie babino-murphy
January 2, 2012
Oh I am awful. Please don't think I forgot about either of you during this past holiday season. Work kept me pretty busy. Wishing you both a belated Merry Christmas and New Year in Heaven.
Greg Nemeth
November 25, 2011
To Kathleen and Eric, A very Happy Thanksgiving. Memories of you both are still alive and live with us daily. All my love and friendship. Greg
annmarie babino-murphy
November 24, 2011
Dearest Eric and Kathy,
A very Happy Thanksgiving to you both as you are seated at God's table. Know that I love and miss you both everyday and there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. Just watch that my father doesn't eat too many sweets. And give him a hug for me. All My Love Always, AnnMarie
Tami Oliver
September 11, 2011
I live in Alexandria, Louisiana and our church service this morning was dedicated to those who lost their lives on 9/11. We have a congregation of close to 3000 people. We were all given names of someone who did not return home that day and I was given Eric's name. As a congregation, we prayed for the families left behind. I hope that you find comfort in knowing that people who strongly believe in the power and comfort that God can give, prayed for your family today. May God continue to give you strengh. We have not forgotten!!
annmarie babino-murphy
September 11, 2011
Dearest Eric and Kathy thinking of you both today.....as we do everyday. Love and miss you both. AnnMarie and family.
Cathie Olson
September 3, 2011
On 9/3/11, my son, Erik J. Olson, San Diego City Firefighter/Paramedic, participated in the Firefighters Memorial 9/11 110-Story Stair Climb as a special tribute to Eric T. Olsen.
Thank you so much for your courage, valor and service to all.
annmarie babino-murphy
July 4, 2011
Hi Kathy and Eric,
Just popping in to say hello and to wish Kathy a Happy Birthday, So Kathy you got to 52 before me LOL. Please continue to be our strength. Know that you are both loved and missed.
JORDAN H
January 28, 2011
ERIC- IM SO INSPIRED BY YOUR HEROISM ON 9/11. I WILL NEVER FORGET YOUR BRAVERY ON 9/11. I PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY EVERY NIGHT. GOD BLESS YOU HERO. THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU GAVE ON SEPT 11TH.
Greg Nemeth
September 12, 2010
Dearest Eric and Kathleen,
It is the nine anniversary, since you were both placed together again. I do miss you both and wish that God will bring us together again for a good laugh around the table. Eric, there has not been enough done to recognize your sacrifice and honor; Kathleen your so missed by so many and Kitty feels the same. Both take care of each other and see you sometime in the future. All my best Gregory
Thomas Brennan
September 11, 2010
We miss you everyday Uncle Eric & Aunt Kathy
AnnMarie Babino-Murphy
September 11, 2010
Dearest Eric and Kathy,
Yet another year has passed since you were so senselessly taken from all of us. I know you are both looking over all of us...you two wouldn't have it any other way.I miss you both and not a day goes by that you are not on my mind or on my lips. Hey there Kathy....have you seen your namesake?? She's a freshman in high school this year. And you know what? Even though there is no "blood" relation between you and baby Kathy....she has your eyes. God bless and keep the both of you. All My Love...AnnMarie
Gregory Nemeth
December 29, 2009
Dear Kathy & Eric
You are dearly missed by us during this holiday season by both my mom (Kitty) and I. The bond that both you and Eric had was a priceless part of life that many do not enjoy. I know that while the both of you are together again, your mom is still telling you to leaving Eric alone and stop nagging him. This is the most endearing thing I remember about you both, the willingness to cope and love each other no matter what. I miss you both and look forward to seeing you both again.
annamrie babino-murphy
December 28, 2009
Call me awful for not writing sooner however you were as always on my mind through this holiday season. merry Christmas to you both in Heaven. When you see Daddy please give him and extra hug and kiss from me.
Annmarie Babino-Murphy
November 3, 2009
Dearest Kathy and Eric,
Well my Kathy another year has passed. It is so hard to handle the fact that we were "just" in high school hanging out on Holly Avenue years go by. I miss you my dear friend. Know that I think of you both everyday especially when I look into baby Kathy's eyes..she's 13 now!!!! Please keep a watch on us. When you see Daddy please give him big hugs and kisses for all of us especially me.
AnnMarie Babino-Murphy
September 11, 2009
My Dearest Eric and Kathy, Another year has passed since that horriable day. So much has changed. Please continue to keep and eye on us. I know Daddy is with you in Heaven give him a hug and many kisses for me. Know that I love you both and miss you. One day we will all be together.
AnnMarie Babino-Murphy
July 14, 2009
Hello Kathy and Eric,
As I am sure you are both aware that Daddy is in Heaven with you. I hope you met him at the gates.Please show him around. I love you both.
AnnMarie babino-Murphy
July 5, 2009
My Dearest Kathy and Eric,
It's been a long time since I have written however there is not a day that goes by that you are not on my mind or your names pass from my lips. Hey Kathy you have a birthday....you old bag you are turning the BIG 5 0 !!!! I still have a few months. Also what is it with you and paper towels?? Last week I came downstairs to get a roll as always got distracted the roll was gone. I found them yesterday!!! Thanks for coming into my life. keep an eye on your namesake..she's a pip isn't she?? She is all you..carefree, loving, smiling, and those blue eyes of hers are a killer. Know that I love and miss you both. keep an eye on daddy for me as you know he is not well. I love you both.
AnnMarie Murphy
December 23, 2008
My Dearest Kathy and Eric,
Well another holiday season is upon us. Where does the time go? I iss you both so very much. But knowing that you rwo are together in God's arms gives me peace. Please keep looking over my family. Hey Kathy...it was great to "see" you last week even though you drove me crazy moving my roll of paper towels all over....like I don't have enough trouble keeping things straight. Always know that I love and miss you both and not a day goes by that you are not on my mind.
September 12, 2008
What an amazing story of a true America hero. I'm convinced Eric and his wife are together in heaven tonight -- as their spirits remain in the hearts of so many. Eris thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice. Americans will NEVER forget! God bless your family always!
AnnMarie Babino-Murphy
September 12, 2008
Dearest Eric and Kathy,
I am sorry that I didn't get to write yesterday but I know if anyone understands it is you two. The kids wore their shirts from Eric's firehouse to school....and proudly I might add. Kathy took the booklet from Eric's firehouse and showed it to her teachers and classmates making special notice of Eric's picture and telling of who he is. As always you were/are both on my mind yesterday and always. Please be with me and my family right now, sorry if I am being selfish asking this of you both, as you both know what we are going through. Make that chemo work on daddy and give mommy the strength. I love and miss you both.
Greg Nemeth
September 11, 2008
Today I count 7 years since the loss of Eric, and the loss of several military friends serving in the Pentagon at the time it was struct. I am thankful that both Eric and Kathleen are together and there to protect us from God's heavenly domain. I do wonder at times what is Eric building or tinkering with for God. I will always remember this kind and compassionate sole. Thanks Eric.
AnnMarie Murphy
June 6, 2008
My Dearest Kathy and Eric,
I don't know how else to "talk" to you other than leaving a message here. Please help us. Please wisper sweet words into God's ears as I know you are both with Him. Kathy I miss seeing your smiling face. However I do "see" your smile in our Kathy's face and her bright blue eyes. Ilove you both. <3
AnnMarie Murphy
March 23, 2008
I am sure that you and Kathy are sitting at God's table today as it is Easter. I miss you both. Keep an eye on us as we need you.
annamrie murphy
November 22, 2007
Dearest Eric and Kathy,
Another Thnksgiving without you two. However I know you are at God's table and with each other. Today I was cleaning out a drawer in my china cabinet and came across a letter my mom mailed to me. In the letter was the newspaper article about the birth of your twin nephews a year after Eric's passing. You are always on my mind. People may think I am crazy but it has been a long time since you have come to visit. I look for you. I need you. I miss you. All my love always, A
annmarie murphy
September 11, 2007
Another year of tears for you and Kathy. At least you two are together as you were meant to be. I know we have the both of you smiling down upon us, guiding us and waiting for us.
P Tabbernor
January 20, 2007
In memory....
Kristine
November 22, 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.
K O
September 11, 2006
Thank you for your good will and spirit, you sacrificed your life that day 5 years ago and you will not be forgotten.
Courtnie Ross
September 11, 2006
5 years ago you sacrificed your life for many others when you had the day off. You are truley amazing and deserve all the blessings you can get, may you rest in peace and one day all your friends and family will see you again, you are forever in our hearts.
Annmarie Murphy
September 11, 2004
Dearest Eric and Kathy, Another fateful year has passed and it doesn't get any easier. I know you are both together as you should be and are watching down on us. I watched the tributes this morning and had tears when your name was mentioned. God Bless You Both. All my love, A
Andrea Clark
August 5, 2004
Well Eric, we are almost done your fire truck. We are trying to complete the dream you had but could not finish. "Engine 9-11" is going back home to New York on August 22, 2004. Your friends at Milford Township Fire Department are going to see to that. God bless you and your family. Your fire truck will move on with you as an angel in the passenger seat.
Greg Nemeth
September 12, 2003
I met Eric through his wife Kathleen Brennen whom Eric lost 7 years earlier to cancer. Kathy worked for my mother Kitty Nemeth. I remember Eric as a good, kind and considerate young man who impressed me with his compassion for others. They are both missed, but I know God has once again, put them together...as the soul mates they are. God Bless them both.
Greg Nemeth
James Langseth Jr.
September 11, 2003
Dear Olsen Family:
My friend, Lloyd Berggren, and I were at Jeremy's Ale House this morning for the Memorial Breakfast. As usual, there was a lighted candle on the bar flanked by a beer each for Eric and Artie. We toasted to their memory. We think of you often - especially today.
annmarie murphy
September 11, 2003
Dearest Eric and Kathy,
Know that today as everyday you are thought of and loved and missed more and more. God Bless and keep You Both. Until we meet again.
annmarie murphy
September 15, 2002
I have been trying to acess your page for a few days now. Was told it was down due to being busy. Please know that you are missed by many and that we think of you everyday. I know you are in Heaven with our Kathy smiling down on us. We moved recently so I am no longer able to go see you both as I used to do. But not a day goes by that you are both thought of 1,000 times over. With love, A
September 13, 2002
On September 11 this year, the students and staff, at my high school that I attend, were supposed to wear nametags that had the name and the occupation of someone who died on 9/11. The person that was on my nametag was Eric T. Olsen. I felt honored to wear the name of a true hero. May he rest in peace!
Rachel
September 13, 2002
Even though I am half the world away from you, I am with you every day through my thoughts and prayers. May Eric and all of his colleagues rest in peace and know that they have touched the hearts of many.
Robin Sweet
September 12, 2002
Dearest Olsen family,
Are College provided flags to every student in memory of each person who was involved in the 911 attack. I am honered to have Eric. T. Olsens name and flag. My heart goes out to your family and friends. He will always be remembered and a hero in my heart. Praise God!!
raul montero
September 11, 2002
on this day so many people have thought of you, have prayed for you and your family,i am a part of that.thank you eric.rest in peace HERO.
maria lombardo
September 10, 2002
dear olsen family..my brother vincent worked with eric..my prayers are with you and your family ...may God bless and keep you all in the palm of His hands ...sincerely maria lombardo
jimmy ramush
May 30, 2002
we always love you .
you were a graet neighbor and great fren for our neighborhood. you are in oure heart .
love jimmy and family
Angie Campbell
May 8, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Joyce and Michael Pelle
May 1, 2002
Eric was an exceptional person. He was always there when you needed him. Before he became a Firefighter, he did wonderul carpentry work. When Mike and I moved into our house in Staen Island in 1987, we needed a new window on the bedroom, and air condidtioners put through the side of the house. My son Michael Jr was fascinated with Eric and always followed him around the house. Eric had a captive audiance each time he came over. Our son was 3 at the time.Eric you will be missed but never fogotten. You were/are an exceptional person. You will live in our hearts and minds forver.
PS My husbands family live across the street from Erics family in Annadale. We have since moved to New Jersey.My husband Michael and I send our love and sincerest sympathy to the entire Olsen family here and abroad.
Michael Iezzi
April 19, 2002
Father we entrust our brother Eric 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.
March 18, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS HERO..ERIC T.OLSEN AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FMAILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK ...STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY JESUS THE CARPENTER AND YOUR WIFE GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
annmarie babino-murphy
March 15, 2002
You are on my mind everyday as well as "my' kathy. I have just ordered 2 memorial bracelets with your name. I wish my kathy could have met you so you could have told her all about big kathy.
raul montero
March 11, 2002
tonight i went to see the lights go on at the trade center and to pay tribute to the heros that i know. eric you are one of those heros. we met many years ago on long island you impressed me with your enthusiasim and gave me tips on fixing some of the things wrong with my house. i think of the sacrifice you have made and tell my kids that i know a hero and every time i see or hear a fire truck i say a prayer for them and for you. i think of you often and keep a picture of you on the front window of my business in harlem. you are a giving man-you gave your all and there are many who miss you who many of your other friends dont know and we all thank you.
Eric & G. Rachel Toro-Ramos
February 15, 2002
To the Olsen Family,
Lisa and Todd, there aren't any words that I can say, other than I am truely sorry for your loss. I pray to God that he will give you and your family the strength to go forward with your lives. You are all in my prayers.
Mickey Beauchamp
February 11, 2002
I only know Eric through the words of my husband Ricky. They were friends growing up together in Annadale. From all that Ricky has said, Eric was a wonderful friend to have.
You're missed by many.
Mickey
BRITT-ELIN FREDRIKSEN
January 9, 2002
Your family in Norway sends its deepest regard.Our thoughts are with you and with the family left behind.
AnnMarie Babino-Murphy
January 5, 2002
I am(was) a good friend of his late wife Kathleen. I only had the pleasure of meeting Eric a few short times. Words can not express my heartfelt thoughts of Eric and Kathy. My little one has Kathy's name in honor of a very special loving person who I miss so deeply. They are with God now, together as they should be. I have never met two people who were one. When Eric and Kathy went into God's hands we all truly got two special angels to look over us. Shotsie I miss you and love you. Til we meet again. A
Judy C
January 1, 2002
To The Olsen Family,
What words can express your loss? Sadness, sorrow, sympathy, hero, and Angel come to mind. I never met you, Eric, but I know it takes a special person to be become one of FDNY's bravest! It takes a hero to sacrifice his life for people you don't know and it takes an Angel to live with God and I know that is where you now reside, Eric. God Bless you, your loved ones and fellow comrades who you left behind and the other Angels who entered Heaven on September 11 right beside you.
Rest In Peace! You will not be forgotten!
Teresa Jahn
December 17, 2001
We thank Eric for dedicating his life to helping others as a firefighter. Such a profession comes with a tremendous heart full of warmth, caring and love. We are extremely sorry for your loss of Eric. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
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