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David Grimner Obituary
David Grimner was always quick to get a laugh, or at least try. "You could be in any mood whatsoever, and he'd just tell a joke and you'd be automatically better," said his son David Patrick Grimner, 17. "Sometimes it wouldn't even be funny, but you'd laugh just because of the way he laughed at it."
Mr. Grimner, 51 and a vice president at Marsh & McLennan, had studied to be a priest and remained religious throughout his life. A member of his parish's council and a eucharistic minister, he never missed a Sunday Mass at Curé of Ars Church in Merrick, N.Y.
He knew it was hard on his wife, Judith Ann, when she returned to graduate school in 1998 to earn a master's degree in education. "You've got to stop putting this much pressure on yourself," he said. She responded, "But you always told me to do my best."
In May 2000, after Mrs. Grimner graduated, her husband took her out for a candlelight dinner and gave her a gift. "He had been saving for these brand-new golf clubs that he really wanted," she said. "Instead of buying them, he bought me a diamond bracelet."
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Judith Ann Grimner
September 12, 2023
Twenty-two years have passed and still it feels like it was yesterday. Our family is growing and you now have a granddaughter Juliette! She is gorgeous, smart and filled with personality! She makes us all laugh and will be a force to be reckoned with! Your grandson, Jake is also an amazing young man! He is a sweet, funny, intelligent boy who loves to make us smile! You would be so proud of both of them! My heart breaks that they don’t get to know their grandfather. We keep pictures and tell stories about you all the time! Yesterday Juliette awakened from her nap and pointed to your picture! You must be around giving our family signs with music, smiles and rainbows!
Dr. Valerie Daguanno
September 11, 2023
Judy, please know that I keep you, your family and David in my prayers. Valerie D.
Kevin Dwyer
September 11, 2016
Dave was a high school and college buddy, and the best athlete I knew.
Frogger, you were a good man.
September 9, 2016
I delivered the paper to the Grimners as a young boy. Dave's older brother was in the service at the same time as my oldest brother Jim. My brother Charles was good friends with Dave. I was closer in age to Maryann. Dave's parents were fixtures at the West Village green and coached a lot of us kids in LSA. Our son is a firefighter for FDNY so for the past few years I've been running the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Tower run to honor the memory of fellow police officers, the firefighters and the civilians lost that day.
I make it a point to visit the memorial to pay my respects and look for familiar names. I have not found Dave's name and won't use the reference sources. I hope I never find it. In that way he may live longer in my memory.
Rob Flood
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Judy Grimner
September 12, 2015
Hello in Heaven Dave! This year we added a new Grimner! You have your first grandson and he is beautiful! Missing and sending you all my love.
Kevin Dwyer
September 11, 2015
Dave was a high school and college bud, and maybe the best athlete I knew. R.I.P Frogger.
Mike Callahan
September 11, 2014
To Dave's family, it is touching to read here and see how present he still is to you after these years. I went to High School and Cathedral College with Dave and always regarded him as a terrific guy. To you, his family, I wish you peace even as you miss him.
June 9, 2014
Dear Dave,
Our son is getting married on Saturday to one of the nicest young ladies! Leigh is everything you would want for David in a wife, she is loving, funny, patient, intelligent, kind and together they are amazing!I will miss you desperately this Saturday in Pittsburgh, but I pray you will be standing next to me blessing your son and new daughter-in-law. Please give me the strength that I need to get through without you. Always...Judith Ann
Chris Corcoran
September 11, 2013
Hi Judy - I was just thinking about you, Dave, and the rest of your family. I'm sure today is tough but I hope you're doing well.
Joyce & Vince Luzzi
August 2, 2013
Dear Judy:
This is a voice from the past. Vince and I met you and Dave on the beach in Barbados, many, many years ago. We were thinking of you and your family lately, and I decided to search Facebook for you and Dave. We were so sorry to read about Dave. Though it has been such a long time, our hearts still go out to you and your family. Know that you and your family will be included in our thoughts and prayers regularly. Dave was such a sweet guy and we have such fond memories of spending good times with you two and your family. Would love to hear from you.
Judith Ann Grimner
September 12, 2012
Happy Birthday in heaven Dave. The boys and I miss you so very much. It just seems to get harder every year. I miss that smile and those twinkling eyes brightening up my world. We truly had the most wonderful life together Someday may God allow us to be together once again, but until then watch over us, my angel.
Patty Savin
August 19, 2012
Dear Judy and Family,
I can't tell you how often i think of you and your tragic loss. I visited the memorial yesterday and said a prayer for Dave as I touched his name. I was so moved by the tribute. May God continue to give you strength.
peggy
October 23, 2011
David was my brother-in-law...the best husband and dad...his love for his family and how hard he worked for them is his legacy....There still is a poster of him enjoying the beach at the entrance of his home...things will never be the same for the family...thay lost so much that day...
Charlie Flood
September 11, 2011
Though ten years have passed, my childhood memories of Dave and the Grimner family remain. I have come to remember and appreciate his laugh, smile and enjoyment of life more as time goes on. I will be at the memorial in October and will be thinking of all of you.
Doug & Mary Galke
September 11, 2011
Remembering Dave on the 10th year after this tragedy - a great man and friend who will be in our thoughts forever.
Chris Corcoran
September 9, 2011
Never Forget.
Bob McGoldrick
September 11, 2008
With love and sorrow for your family Sincerely,Bob McGoldrick and family
Steve Nagy
September 11, 2008
Wow, what an emotional day! Dave was my swim and water polo coach at Cathedral College 1974-'78. I am proud to call Dave not only a friend but a true, positive influence on my life. Dave could always get a smile out of me and our teammates- he was always there for us and listened to all our "problems" at the time. We all lost a friend that mournful day but Dave will always be in our hearts and minds! Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Dave's family my good friend Mike Funk tells me they are what God had in mind when he created "family". That is no small compliment coming from Mike. God be with you Dave!
John Cherney
May 24, 2007
Sorry for your loss. This is Grease, we were in Nam together. Im sorry I found you this way. I lost my only brother in 98 due to agent orange.
Kristine
November 6, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
October 27, 2006
In remembrance....
Cathy (Haberland) McCarthy
September 12, 2006
Dear Judy, I am not sure if you are the same Judy I grew up with in Roslyn and went to St. Mary's with. I am so sorry of your tragic loss.Please let me know if you are Judy B.
lauren peters
September 11, 2006
uncle dave, we all miss you so much. the past 5 years have been so different with you not being at the family parties and holidays. it's just not the same. you were a great guy and although i was fairly young when this tragedy happened, i have many wonderful memories of you. i will cherish the time i had to spend with you and will always love you! rest in peace <3
CAITLIN HAUSSER
September 3, 2006
MY HEART IS WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY DURING THIS TIME.
Karen (Clancey) Simon
September 2, 2006
David holds a special place in the memories of my youth. A good friend of MaryAnn's, we all lifeguarded together at Cantiaque Park in Hicksville. Those years are my fondest memories. Our parents were good friends and so dedicated to making LSA a success in those early years. The Dave I remember, always worked hard, played hard, and loved his friends and family deeply and unconditionally. He was a man of deep faith, strong values, enjoyed life and never missed an opportunity to laugh.
To his family and friends, I am sure you feel as I do that we are blessed to have known David and we are better because of him. I know that he greatly influenced my life.
TIM BAIERWALTER
August 27, 2006
DEAR JUDY & FAM, ALMOST FIVE YEARS HAS GONE BY,WE STILL THINK OF YOU PEOPLE EVERYDAY WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU WE WANT TO SEE YOU REAL SOON.I LOVE YOU!!!
Laura Hogan
April 7, 2005
Dear Aunt Judy and boys,
We all miss him very much and will remember him forever he will always be in my heart. I can see it in my dads eyes ( Mike) everytime he sees the picture of dave and the guys golfing a couple years agao we miss him dearly. Love you Uncle Dave. We will meet again one day.
Barbara Grimner
December 14, 2004
I'm so sad about losing my cousin David, and the extreme loss for Judy, Brian, Michael and David Jr. I will try to keep an eye on David Jr, Villanova is just minutes away from where I live. Merry Christmas! Love, Barbara Grimner
John D
July 22, 2004
On this is the day of the release of the final 9/11 Report, I find people once again on my mind. Never met Dave, but he would occasionally sit next to me on the train into Penn. It was always, and still is for me, the 6:46 from Wantagh, first car.
I remember Dave and saw his billfold once that said McLennan. I also saw him sometimes at WTC, coming in from the plaza on the way to work. I worked at One, 29th floor, and got out that day of days.
Eventually, getting back to work, I'd look for "Dave" (no name known at the time) on the train.
Everything I've read seems to fit the man I never knew, but miss nonetheless.
John...
July 22, 2004
Mike
December 10, 2003
I miss you Dad
Terence and Joan McAnuff
September 12, 2003
Dear Mrs. Grimner and sons,
You are always in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, Terry and Joan McAnuff
Jennifer Ciccone
September 11, 2003
I went to school and swimming lessons with Brian way back in the day, before my family moved. I still remember the last time I saw the Grimner family when they visited our new home in Florida. Although that was almost 15 years ago, I have never forgotten how Dave's presence always radiated the room at any of our family/friend gatherings. He always had everyone laughing and having a great time. I only wish our families would have been better at keeping in touch over the years so that we could have continued to enjoy the charm that Dave brought to this world. I can only say that I am very honored to have had the chance to know this wonderful man and I continue to keep his family in my heart. Heaven is a better place with you, Dave. May God bless you and your family.
Jim Rea
August 29, 2003
I just wanted to post a note saying that I am thinking of Dave and often say prayers for him, Judy and the boys. You are all in my thoughts as we approach September 11, 2003. God Bless you all.
Caitlin Hausser
December 19, 2002
I WENT TO SCHOOL WITH MIKE AND MET HIS DAD ONCE OR TWICE. ALTHOUGH I DIDN'T KNOW HIM VERY WELL MIKE WAS A GREAT PERSON SO YOU KNOW HE TOOK AFTER HIS DAD. I AM SORRY FOR EVERYTHING AND I WISH YOU THE BEST FOR YOUR FUTURE
Paul Rhindress
September 17, 2002
I have just learned that Dave was lost on 9-11. I am so sorry for your loss. Dave was my swimming coach at Cathedral College. He also became my friend.Perhaps you remember me Judy, my sister Charleen sang at your wedding. I always appreciated your patience when Dave dragged you to one of our meets. He was a very important person for me during those years and he will always be remembered and missed. You may also know that Joe Pfeifer was in my class and also coached by Dave. They were very special and innocent years. I would very much like to hear from you when and if you have the time. You and your family will remain in our prayers.
Sincerely,
Paul Rhindress
Glynis Gsell
September 16, 2002
Mike and I went through four years of high school literally next to one another. Because of the "alphabetical order" thing, I was always behind him. That helped me get to know him, as much as one could, second thing in the morning. Typical high school brains are in some kind of sleep mode because of all the cramming the night before. When we did talk to one another, the conversations were short and simple. But with just that I could tell that not only he but his little brother Dave were the nicest young gentlemen any father and mother could raise. And I know that your father will always be there for you, when in need, to help you grow into the man he was. A very loving, caring and devoted father. I can only keep your father, you and your entire family in my constant prayers and thoughts; wishing there were something more I could do. He will never be forgotten, for his memory lives within you and your hearts and the countless hearts around the world, including mine and my families.
Brian Donohue
September 11, 2002
I did not know David but I do know his son, Mike. Mike and I go to Manhattan College together.
I just wanted to express my sorrow for the family of David; you will be remembered in my heart. God bless.
N D
September 11, 2002
Many condolences to The Grimner family.
Pauline and Larry Boerum
September 6, 2002
It has been nearly one year since the terrible events of 9/11; yet we find that we so often think of David Grimner and the wonderful family that was (and still is) his. We attended his memorial service with another friend of Judy's (Robin Zamer). We were touched by the dignity and courage displayed by Judy Grimner and her boys while doing scripture readings and greeting everyone. We didn't know David personally - but what a guy he must have been - and what a great family carries on his legacy.
Love and Prayers,
Pauline and Larry
Jim Rea
September 4, 2002
It's almost a year since the horrible events of September 11, 2001. I have often visited this page to read the tributes to Dave. As I mentioned in my November 3, 2001 tribute, Dave and I went to Pace University some years ago. I have thought of Dave and his family many times over the last few months and every time I do I say a prayer for Dave, Judy and their boys. Sometimes, I simply say "Dave, thanks for the memories, it was truly an honor to know you."
To Judy and your boys, I know you will never heal from this, but I pray that you find peace.
Michael Grimner
September 3, 2002
I just wanted to thank everyone for their support through out this horrible time for my family. It was very nice and comforting to see all the heartfelt things about my Dad. I miss him very much and will always remember him as the influential father that he was. I love you and miss you Pops. You are in my heart forever. Mike
Colleen M. B
May 27, 2002
All I can say, is that even though I didnt know Mr. Grimner, I recieved his name on a braclet on mercyband. May his soul rest in peace, and know, his friends and family, I mourn with you.
Blessed be
Peace, Love and Light
Colleen
Angie Campbell
April 30, 2002
May God Bless you and watch over the ones that you left behind. Rest in his loving peace forever more.
Doug Galke
April 20, 2002
Dave and I grew up in the same neighborhood in Hicksville, NY. Although Dave went to Catholic schools and I went to public schools, we developed a very close friendship over the years. Dave and I shared many "firsts" growing up - times I remember fondly. Dave was Best Man at my marriage to Mary, a task he did in the same enthusiastic, positive way he approached all aspects of his life. Mary and I eventually settled in North Carolina but we managed to maintain contact with Dave and his wonderful family through cards, phone calls, and occasional visits. We are so thankful to have gotten to know his wife Judy and their boys. Dave and I also got together recently for a couple of golf trips to Pinehurst which gave him a good opportunity to see how little my golf game had improved since he introduced me to the game at Cantiague Park.
Today would have been Dave's 52nd birthday. I will always remember him as a wonderful friend and family man - loyal, fun, hardworking, concerned. Truly a great man!
ed donnelly
April 12, 2002
I knew Dave and his sister Maryanne from LSA diving and we worked together at Cantiague Park. Now we have a little more in common through 9 / 11. Maryanne, my brother Kevin was also killed in the trade center, he was FDNY. I hope that you and the entire family are gaining strength. I believe my parents had only sat at a wedding last summer with Dave and his wife. They said it was a great time. Last coincidence, Michael Golden NYC managing director for Marsh is my cousin. I hope you gain the necessary strength. I understand and share the loss and pain that youare experiencing. Good luck to you. Maryanne, I welcome your e - mail response
Judy Grimner
April 5, 2002
Dear Friends,
Today is April 5, 2002 and I have just found all of your heartfelt memories of my David. Thank you and God bless you all.
Judy and the boys
Bill Stengel Sr.
March 14, 2002
Our kids played and went to school together and that's how I came to know you. Haven't seen you since, but remember many times spent with you. Always a gentleman and all around nice guy. There's a big void in Merrick with you gone. Rest peacefully, Dave. You live on in your family.
D D
March 12, 2002
I never met David, but i only hear great things about him, i am friends wit Mrs. Grimner and i just want to wish the best for her and her family. I also wanted to say that i am praying for you.
Barbara Hall
March 7, 2002
Heaven is a better place with you in it. May you rest in peace and sleep with the angels. We will never forget you! The Baierwalter cousins in New Jersey pray for you and your family every day!
Anonymous
January 28, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS
BEAUTIFUL MAN DAVID GRIMNER AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS ..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND
NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01...MAY THE BIBICAL DAVID GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN.AMEN
Jim Neilly
December 31, 2001
We remember David from the CYO and LSA swim teams. I fondly recall those days now when David's Dad, Charlie, and my father coached the teams. I have not seen David since but I would like his family to know that he is in my family's thoughts and prayers at this tragic time.
The Neillys
Teresa Jahn
December 30, 2001
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Jim Rea
November 30, 2001
On Saturday, November 3rd, I learned that Dave was lost in the attack on the WTC. I was deeply saddened to learn this. Dave and I attended Pace University together about 15 years ago in the Masters of Tax program. Dave and I shared many hours together during this period of our lives. Unfortunately, we had only spoken several times since we completed our studies, but our common goal brought us close together during that time. We shared many laughs together. He was a great guy who I will always remember. May God bless Dave and watch over his family.
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