Wantaugh, New York
A Risk-Taking Rationale
Charles Magee was flying a single-engine plane to the Grand Canyon when the radio died and the gas gauge went from full to empty. He diagnosed the problem fast — loss of electric power — looked over his flight charts, set down safely at a nearby airfield. "He was like that," said Janet Wexler-Magee, his wife of 13 years. "He said, 'Let's move forward with a rational plan.' "
Such were the nerves and skill that catapulted Mr. Magee from budding technician 30 years ago to chief engineer for the World Trade Center complex.
Mr. Magee knew how things worked. He oversaw the hundreds of miles of ventilation ducts, pipes and electric wires of the complex — the arteries of what amounted to a small city.
Mr. Magee, 51, started the job six weeks before Sept. 11. Though he was expected to wear a tie, he still loved to roll up his sleeves and fix things, and teach the buildings' younger engineers. Ms. Wexler-Magee, who shared in many of her husband's nervy pursuits, now plans to take up another. "I've started taking flying lessons," she said.
I dont remember meeting you but I think of you ever year. I would call Nana ever year till she past. I know she is with you now. I love you both.
Shannon Magee Orlovich
September 11, 2019 | TN
Hey, Janet
I'm thinking of you after all these years, and remembering that you learned to fly, in your husband's honor.
I was just reading the paper and it mentioned another Magee.
That rang the bell, and I found this warm place.
Take care,
John Fields
September 17, 2018 | New York, NY
Janet,
My name is John Purcell I used to work for Johnson Controls.I first met Charlie at A & S Plaza way back when, he was always a great guy to deal with during the construction phase of the job a real nice guy. I believe our paths crossed again when he went to 7 World as chief of course. I have fond memories of him and I am very sorry for your loss.
I think of him every September.
John Purcell
John Purcell
September 12, 2018 | Medford, NY
a simple tribute
I visited the WTC site in October 2016, and noticed a white carnation next to his name. I photographed it and became curious as to who was Charles Wilson Magee. I read his bio. and realized that he, like myself love to fly, because it did bring us closer to the face of God.
Spencer Gosenson
September 26, 2017 | Ventura, CA
I gave blood today in your name. We will never forget!
Stephen Ballew
September 11, 2017 | Exeter, CA
I came across Mr. Magee's name while working on a loan for Ms. Wexler-Magee on the day after the 15 year anniversary.
I Googled Mr Magee and found stories of what a wonderful, loving and full of life person he was. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the survivor's families, but for now on my family and I will be including a candle for Mr Magee and his family every year. God Bless America!
Ray Shelley
September 12, 2016 | Manheim, PA
God Bless
November 11, 2015 | Houston, TX
GOOD SOLID MEN, WHOM I NEVER MET, BUT WISH I HAD.
March 05, 2015
Hey Mac. It's been awhile. Your always in my thoughts and prayers. We had some great times. All good memories. See you again someday my friend.
Jimmy (Shamus) Croce
September 11, 2014 | Fort Lauderdale, FL