Rose-Riso-Obituary

Rose Mary Riso

New York, New York

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New York, New York

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Saver of Lives

Some people say Rose Riso saved 39 lives on Sept. 11. Others say it was 184. Diane Fattah knows she is alive now because of Ms. Riso, a senior tax auditor at the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, where she took her responsibilities as fire warden seriously.

"When we used to have fire drills, she would put the little red hat on and the whistle and get out the flashlight, that's how she was," Ms. Fattah said. And Joyce DeSantis, another co-worker, said, "You'd get that look if you passed remarks during fire drills."

Their office was in the south tower, the second to be hit. On Sept. 11, after the first strike, "Rose told us we all had to get out and all had to get out now," Ms. Fattah said. "This building was going to be loaded with smoke and we had to get out." Ms. Riso kicked Ms. Fattah off the phone, allowing her to reach the lobby 35 seconds before the second plane hit. Ms. Riso never got out.

"It didn't look bad to me until I was downstairs," Ms. Fattah said. "From up there, it just looked like a little dent in the building. Who knew? But she did."

Ms. Riso, 55, lived in New York with two cats that made her face light up whenever she spoke of them. Her co-workers are planning a memorial service for her on Wednesday.

Guest Book

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I do not know you, but know that those of us across the world mourn you and thank you for your sacrifice.

we will never forget ...

My dear cousin, Rosie,
It has been twenty years since we lost you. We still miss your smile, your sense of humor, and especially the love you gave to our large family. I remember that my Mom always made you a heart shaped birthday cake on your February 14th Birthday. ❤ Rest In Peace, Rosie. You are a hero and will never be forgotten.

Our sincere condolences we send to your family. Each day may God continue to give the comfort and help needed to cope. Rose touched many many lives and will never be forgotten but always remembered with love and appreciation. May the time come when these violent acts are ended for all time.

This is Luke a Sophomore from Shanley High School in Fargo, North Dakota. Rose was a true hero helping her co-workers get out safely from the building, she is a great example of what to do in an emergency situation and putting others first. I am very sorry for her loss and wish the best for her family.

What a terrific hero. RIP...

there is no greater gift than to lay down your life for another and in Mary's case, many others!

Today, 09/11/2018, ( 17 years ...) we remember you Rose ... We will never forget. Wishing all the best to your family and friends. Much regards.

I have NOT and will NOT EVER FORGET your sacrifice or your heroism on that fateful tragic day! 17 short years ago, yet it feels like a lifetime. Please Everyone, DON'T EVER FORGET, but more importantly educate your children so the memory remains. The kids graduating high school now were not even alive when this occurred and unless we teach them what happened that day, they will never fully grasp the depth of the tragedy and the loses incurred by so many. Pray for all the victims and there...