Bayonne, New Jersey
The Christmas Connection
Kenneth J. Tarantino was known around Bayonne High School in New Jersey as "the cute sub." He worked there as a substitute teacher while going to college, and among his students in English class was the woman who would later become his wife.
"He was just so charming," said Jennifer Tarantino, 32. "All he had to do was smile."
Mr. Tarantino, 39, eventually got his bachelor's degree in marketing; two years ago, he went to work as a broker for Cantor Fitzgerald, on the 105th floor of 1 World Trade Center. He was very successful, Mrs. Tarantino said, but was always humble and sought only simple pleasures ‹ golf, the Yankees, a beach house every summer on the Jersey shore.
Mr. Tarantino also had a warm, friendly way about him that made him a social magnet. Friends described him as the one everybody wanted to hang out with. At a wedding, he caught the garter and wore it on his head the rest of the evening, and by the end of the night even the band wanted to take him on the road with them.
The Tarantinos had moved to a bigger house in Bayonne, N.J., last February with their 3-year-old son, Kenneth, and were expecting a second child, who is due December 24. Mrs. Tarantino said she hopes the baby comes one day late.
Her husband was a Christmas baby, she said, and "I'd love to have him on Christmas Day."
I was in most of Kenneth classes. I remember in being a warm and friendly person. When I heard that he was 1 world trade. I always listen for this named every year. God bless Kenny and his family. Joanne Genova Ventura
Joanne Ventura
September 11, 2024 | School
My beloved brother Kenny .you are missed and loved beyond measure. Life has changed drastically since you left but I know you see it all and are always watching over us. Mom is so broken hearted so please give her strength. Give Daddy my love. Until we meet again you’ll remain in our hearts. Rest peacefully.your loving sister Vicky
Vicky Melone (Tarantino)
September 11, 2023 | Bayonne, NJ | Sister
Since the first year, we listen to the reading of names of those souls who passed on 9/11 to hear his name remembered. We will never forget you, Kenny. With love, Tom & Cynthia
Tarantino
September 10, 2023 | Family
Rest in peace kenny our prayers to the family God bless u deepest condolcences kathleen kevin spanarkel
Kathleen Spanarkel
September 12, 2021 | Bayonne, NJ | Friend
20 years and I still miss your face...
xo
September 11, 2021
To the Tarantino family, I know this sounds crazy, but I just found out about Kenny's passing on 9/11/01. I worked with Kenny at Pershing in 1984//1085. I was his manager and we became friends instantly. He was always smiling, laughing and just enjoyed life. He invited me to his Bel.mar summer home that he shared with his "real" friends, a couple of times. What a great time I had going to the clubs and hanging out with Kenny and his friends. Kenny and I didn't keep in touch after he left...
Damien Shane
June 10, 2021 | Coworker
We send our heartfelt thoughts of condolence to your family. With each new day may God give the strength and help needed. Kenny is still sadly missed and will not be forgotten.
The Kindred Family
July 06, 2019
Hey Kenny, You are a great friend. You have never left my side. I hope I was as good a friend to you.You are not forgotten and never will be. You are always thought of and frequently spoken of amongst your friends. I miss you.
artie
September 11, 2018 | NJ | Friend
God bless we always see Kenneth's name while visiting Dennis (Taormina)
Taormina
September 11, 2016 | Nutley, NJ