New York, New York
An Enduring Bond
Todd Pitman and Gary Gerst had a friendship that began when they were 4-year-olds growing up in Skaneateles, N.Y., and stayed strong — even when Mr. Pitman skipped a grade, went away to boarding school and college, and finally moved to Manhattan, where he worked as an options trader at Cantor Fitzgerald. "When he got home in the summer, we always hung out," said Mr. Gerst, a middle-school English teacher and soccer coach in their hometown.
About the same height and build, they eventually began to think of themselves as family. Mr. Pitman, 30, was a favorite of all the Gersts, and paid special attention to his friend's sister, who is autistic and mentally retarded. Mr. Pitman had a special whistling sound he used to make her laugh.
He lived in the East Village but was building a lake house in Skaneateles, said his sister, Erica. Last year, Mr. Gerst invited Mr. Pitman to be best man at his wedding. The ceremony took place earlier this summer; Mr. Pitman's father stood in his son's place.
I was in school with Todd, Gary, and Erica...I do remember Todd well, and even as a kid, he was kind and funny. He made me laugh so hard once that milk came out of my nose! A lot of us had a pretty solid crush on him. He was a great guy.
Kelly Ferris
September 13, 2024 | Friend
Todd
You and your friend and my son, Eddie Aguilar, are looking down on us from heaven. Eddie introduced me to you in Tokyo some 25 years ago. You drove us to a great restaurant in your open Jeep. You were so kind, generous and thoughtful. I always remember you on this Patriot Day.
Blessings,
Eileen
Eileen Phillips
September 11, 2024 | South Pasadena, CA | Acquaintance
Hi Chris! Every year I find someone to learn about on the anniversary of 9/11. This year it was you. I hope you're looking down on your family. You are not forgotten.
Ashlee Todd
September 08, 2024 | Tacoma, WA | Acquaintance
In memory of Chris Pitman...
Alex lai
December 19, 2019
Thinking of you today, like so many other days...
Christina Francis
September 11, 2019 | Albany, NY
Thinking of you today and everyday...
Christina Francis
September 11, 2018 | Albany, NY
In Memory with
Honor & Respect.
S..J. Friscia III
September 29, 2017 | Staten Island, NY
Thats a quick 15 years but you'll never be forgotten. I'll have a gold slinger for you and all the other guys Xx
Bryn Meredith-Foster
September 12, 2016 | Singapore
15 years - you are still missed. Not a day goes by where I do not think of you...
Christina Francis
September 11, 2016 | Albany, NY
