Annadale, New York
Never Too Old for Toys
Think tax investigator, and if you do not envision a man who relishes birthdays and spaghetti with the zeal of a child, perhaps you did not know Salvatore T. Papasso.
Mr. Papasso worked as a special investigator for the revenue crimes bureau of the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, on the 86th floor of 2 World Trade Center.
He liked bringing white-collar criminals to justice, but he also drew pleasure from simpler things. Take the Lego pirate-ship set he received as a gift after complaining, in his late 20's, that people no longer gave him toys. "He actually put it together," marveled Vincent Papasso, one of his brothers (and the bearer of the gift).
Mr. Papasso, 34, and his wife, Christine, celebrated one another's birthdays for an entire month, with multiple cakes and dinners out. They married on May 12, 2000, then marked their union on the 12th of each month, sometimes nudging one another awake after midnight to be the first to wish a happy anniversary. "He celebrated life," Mrs. Papasso said. "My outlook on everything changed with him."
Somehow I came across Salvatore’s card. It’s part of the New Orleans Stair Climb in Homer and remembrance of the 9/11 victims. It hangs in my workshop and it reminds me of the bravery and sacrifice we saw that dreadful day.
Buddy Sheriff
January 30, 2026 | Gulfport, MS | Acquaintance
In Memory with
Honor & Respect.
S.J. Friscia III
September 30, 2016 | Staten Island, NY
I am a police officer in San Antonio, TX. To honor the fallen, I climbed the Tower of the Americas twice, to finish the climb that so many could not. Every officer and firefighter carried a name of a hero. I was fortunate enough to be honored to carry your name.
Brad Westmoreland
September 11, 2013 | San Antonio, TX
You're still in my thoughts every day, Sal...a true American Hero. God Bless.
Tom M
September 07, 2013 | Palatile, IL
Dear Sal,
We never got to meet but I am close to your niece and nephew, they are growing up so fast and you would be soo proud of them. I know your family misses you greatly and Chris misses you oh sooooooo much just from stories I have heard from your family makes me feel like I have known you. may you always watch over your family and remain with them always. Rest In Piece Salvatore Papasso. you may be gone but you willl NEVER EVER be forgotten! May your soul find peace and joy and may...
ally knipp
September 11, 2012 | Brooklyn, NY
Dear Salvatore,
I am a 25 year police veteran in the Chicago area. On the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I vowed to learn about one of the fallen 72, and keep him especially in my heart every day. You are the hero I chose, and I wanted to let your family and friends know that not a day goes by now where I don't say a prayer for you. God Bless, and may he keep you close.
Tom M
November 29, 2011 | Palatine, IL
Dear Uncle Sal,
Even though i didnt get the chance to meet you that much since 1 years old....I am sure you were a great man..who always helped others before your-self...i realy wish i got to know you more. I remember the day we went to a arcade and there was a ball pit and me, you, Brendan, and aunt christine jumped in and you held me up because i was to short for the ball pit..:) All i have to say is thanks for everything you have done for me....I am 12 now and miss u more and...
Brittney Cofresi
May 05, 2011 | NY
Dear Papasso Family,We wanted to let you know on the 8th annv. Your family is in our prayers and that we will never forget.
Stephen & Tara Papasso
September 11, 2009 | Bangor, PA
Sal,
I look back on the years after 2001. I think about the days you and I were in the academy together. I think about the day we became partners. I think about all those times we spent in the car on surveillance or in the precincts processing an arrest. I spent more time with you then I did with Lisa. I remember going with you to pick out Christine’s ring you had what a smile on your face, you were so excited. I remember when we had to buy and mail you mother all her Birthday cards...
Anthony Piazza
September 11, 2008 | Staten Island, NY