New York, New York
A Quirky Perfectionist
When Donald J. DiFranco set out to replace the roof on his house, he counted out every nail and every tile he would need before starting.
When he needed new windows for the house, he spent months compiling a list of virtually all the window manufacturers in the world. After he ordered the windows, he stained the wood around each pane, applying coat after coat, before installing them. But the windows did not look quite right, so he removed them, stained them again and put them back in.
Mr. DiFranco, 43, the engineer in charge of maintaining WABC-TV's transmitter on the 110th floor of 1 World Trade Center, approached the tasks of life with a quirky perfectionism. This endeared him to anyone who watched him work and to relatives, who counted on his being able to tackle anything, from broken radios to tax returns. "He just had something you can't learn," said his sister, Lisa Pipitone.
Mr. DiFranco would often work late. But before he left the building ‹ no matter what time it was ‹ he would slip on a pair of work gloves and do a long set of push-ups, said his co-worker, Vinny Ioele. "It was a good sign to see him put on the gloves," Mr. Ioele said. "That meant it was time to go."
Listening to multiple 9/11 stories I found yours. What a brave, most smart and treasure to this country you were. Might your family find peace and your dedication is never forgotten! RIP, sir.
Tiffany Chalmers
October 09, 2024 | Fort Worth, TX
Don was an usher in my wedding party in 1981. As young teens we worked together in a warehouse in Brooklyn. Great guy and always friendly to everyone. Miss his smile...
Ken Rogers
September 11, 2024 | Friend
I just found his story. I've heard many stories from/about many people on that tragic day but I just learned of his. God bless Don and all of the others and their families and friends. You all will never be forgotten ❤
Dani Schiazza
August 14, 2024 | Philadelphia, PA
Perhaps not appropriate, but 22 years on, I continue to deep dive the personal stories of the folks lost at WTC. He really seems like a truly amazing man who served all of us. Let us never forget; and be stronger, better, kinder in honor of this man.
Bruce
September 26, 2023 | Sioux City, IA
Remembering Donald on the 20th anniversary of 9/11...
Cindy Roe
September 07, 2021 | Galesburg, MI
Not sure why today of all days you're so deeply on my mind, but you're never too far from my thoughts. Missing you.
Reyna Swinson
December 08, 2019 | Brooklyn, NY | Friend
So very sorry for the loss that your family has suffered. Daily may God continue to give the needed comfort and support. Donald will always be fondly remembered.
The Kindred Family
November 07, 2018
Don, 15 years have gone by, you will never be forgotten. To your family and friends, I did not know Don, but I admire his skill and attention to detail. With much regards.
Tom
September 10, 2016 | San Jose, CA
Dear Uncle Don,
Tomorrow is 9/11 and of course you are thought about. But as you know you are thought about alot! We love and will always miss you. I remember at my wedding, I was on the dance floor and you looked over at me with this smile and I will never forget it. Always Xo Rose Lyn
Rose Lyn Petfuzzi
September 10, 2013 | Holmdel, NJ