Brooklyn, New York
The Measure of a Man
"The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good." Samuel Johnson, the 18th- century man of letters, wrote it, and Michael Ferugio lived it.
He came from Smalltown, U.S.A. Pottsville is an aging coal-mining town in the northeastern hills of Pennsylvania, and like many young people there, Mr. Ferugio, 37, left to make his fortune.
Still, he took something with him. His father was a steam-pipe fitter, his mother a homemaker. They imparted some regular folk wisdom to him that he did not abandon: "You're no better than anyone else."
"We used to fight because he said hello to strangers," said his wife, Susan, 34, who grew up in Queens and lived with her husband in Brooklyn. "I'm a New Yorker, and I told him you can't do that here."
But he did, top to bottom. As an insurance broker at Aon, he ate breakfast with chief executives at the World Trade Center, and when he was done, he made small talk with the secretaries. After his death, Susan went through his phone book. Inside were the numbers of half a dozen janitors. His friends.
If only you were here to spread that optimism and care for others this year when we need you more than ever. Loving you and missing you more each year.
Mary Ann Kase
September 13, 2025
One more September 11 has arrived to spotlight what your family and friends lost 24 years ago. Though I have so many happy memories of you, I miss your smile the most. I love you, Mike.
Gayle Sleva
September 11, 2025
23 years; with my kids turning 16 and 14 this year I reflect on how much they could have learned from Mike's positive outlook on life. I still tell them stories of Mike throughout the year and especially around Sep 11. He left a mark on me and I hope he'll leave a mark on my kids and make them better people, like Mike.
Warren Richards
September 16, 2024 | Sydney, Australia | Friend
What can I say this year that's different than any other year, except that I miss and love you more than ever. Today was rough. But as always many of your friends (who are now my friends) checked in which reminded me of the impact you made and are still making. I also connected with my sister - ALL FOUR of them! I love you.
Susan Ferugio
September 12, 2024 | New York, NY | Spouse
23 years later, Michael, and still sharing stories of you and the life you lived. All who knew you are richer for the experience. I love you and will miss you forever.
Gayle Sleva
September 11, 2024 | Family
Miss your smile buddy and always keep you in my heart. And not just in this solemn day. Your spirit lives on Fudd! You were a great friend and GREAT man. Tell Jesus I said hello and put in a good word for us all down here.
Patrick Joyce
September 11, 2024 | Friend
Mike, 60 years old!!! I'm sure the party in Heaven was a good one!! Is that what all the thunder was this past weekend? Not a day goes by that you are missed by everyone that knew you. Keep watching over all of us. Rest east and keep smiling!!
Doreen Mengel
May 28, 2024 | Saint Clair, PA
Mike, can’t believe how long it’s been since you left us. Be seeing you again sooner then later. RIP!
Ed Rhode
May 26, 2024 | NJ | Friend
Happy birthday dear cousin! The older I get the more I miss your smile and beautiful personality.
Mary ann Kase
May 26, 2024 | Wyomissing, PA | Family
