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Lt. Michael Warchola
Lt. Michael Warchola
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Michael Warchola Obituary
When Lt. Michael Warchola was a child in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, his grandmother brought British tabloid newspapers into the house. Paging through the tales of three-headed babies and ichthyological anthropomorphism, he developed a passion for reading and a flair for the bizarre.
He parlayed his appetite for books into a teaching certificate, and he joined the New York Fire Department in 1977, after five years on the waiting list. "It was dangerous, but it was a good job," said his father, Michael Warchola. It also helped pay for his trips to the strange and historical sites he read about.
As he neared retirement, Lieutenant Warchola, 51, who was divorced, devoted more time to tending his garden at his home in Middle Village, Queens, where he made elaborate drawings of Venus flytraps, but he kept a Godzilla poster on his wall.
The attack of Sept. 11 spread his name around the world, as it did those of many other victims. One who noticed the name was Prime Minister Mikulas Dzurinda of Slovakia, and when he came here recently to run in the New York Marathon, he sought out Lieutenant Warchola's older brother Denis, who was only vaguely aware of the family's central European ancestry. Mr. Dzurinda took home a picture of Lieutenant Warchola and held it aloft during a television appearance.
"Everybody in the country saw my brother's picture," Denis Warchola said.
The brother, a retired firefighter himself, had a chance for the most intimate of farewells. After his brother was dead, "I got to put my hands on my brother's arm."
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9/11/2024 memorial ceremony badge
Mina Barkley
September 11, 2024
Hi my name is Mina Barkley. I am 9 years old. I got your badge at a 9/11 memorial today on the 23rd anniversary. My school attended and I sang during the ceremony. I even found the sign of your badge too. When I got home from school, my mom and I looked you up to learn about your life. Thank you for your service and thank you for your sacrifice. We will never forget.
Jim Smarr
September 10, 2022
I got this bracelet and one for my 2 daughters not long after September 11, 2001. When you ordered them , you were just sent a random bracelet of one of the 343. I only wear it one day every year and that is on September 11. You will never be forgotten. We honor your sacrifice.
Dan Potter
September 11, 2018
Dear Boss, 17 years have gone by, but never has a day gone by that I don 't remember our time together on that big red machine. Continued rest in peace, Brother. Jean and Dan
Christine McRae
September 11, 2017
I met Mr. Warchola when I was a PA student, doing my primary care rotation in a doctors office. Lucky him, I got to practice drawing his blood. He was so good about it, he used to crack jokes (to both of our benefits). I was so saddened to hear about what happened to him that fateful day. I grieve for the life that he did not get to live and I think of his family. I will not forget you.
~Christine, formerly of Valley Stream, NY
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Karen Borkowski
September 11, 2016
When September 11th happened, the military unit I was assigned to made dog tags with the names of those lost that day and all the proceeds were donated to the families. I was fortunate to have received his name. That dog tag has traveled with me in every mission. Not a day goes by in which I don't think about him. You are not forgotten, Lt. Warchola!
Dan Potter
August 30, 2016
Dear Mike, not a day goes by that I don't think of our friendship and zany times together in the front seat of Ladder 5 as your chaueffer. Rest Mike, until we meet again.
Jon FitzSimon
September 11, 2015
Warchola, Lt. Michael
Jon FitzSimon
September 11, 2015
I took part of the San Antonio 110 memorial tower climb today, Sept. 11th, 2015, and was fortunate enough to carry a badge and placard with Lt. Michael Warchola's information on it.
This event takes place at the Tower of the Americas here in San Antonio annually and they have pictures of the fallen all the way up the staircase throughout the entire tower climb. There are 65 flights of stairs leading up to the top of the Tower of the Americas, so we complete two trips up and down.
I wasn't able to find Lt Warchola's picture the first time up, however on my second trip I was his photo on the third floor. It was a very hot and humid day today in San Antonio, and was a difficult climb. However I pushed on knowing that Lt Warchola paid the ultimate sacrifice and I wanted to pay tribute to him.
I know it must be really hard for his family and loved ones to try and move forward with the loss of this wonderful man. However he chose the life of service and we are so grateful that there are men and women like him to help protect our cities and country. Thank you very much for allowing me to climb for you today Lt. Michael Warchola. Thank you for your service and sacrifice.
-Jon FitzSimon
Jim Carpenter
September 11, 2015
Honored to have been a childhood friend of yours Mike. Think of you often, admire your everyday courage. God Bless You
You will never be forgotten, this is my son on 9/11/2014 , memorial run in Sacramento CA in honor of those lost. May your family be blessed.
Donna Bruss
September 12, 2014
John J Little Sr
September 11, 2013
Michael and I use to knock eachother around the ring at East54th St gym, with The Fox. Michael helped me win the title that year. I just found out about Michael passing last year in 911. My prayersfor Michael and his family for as long as I live
GOD BLESS,
John J Little Sr
Richard Washington
May 10, 2013
I never got to know Lt. Michael Warchola,but meeting his brother Denis Warchola makes me proud to be a firefighter as he and his brother was with the FDNY.
Debbie Krug
April 2, 2013
No man hath more courage than to lay down his life for his 'brothers and sisters'. The gratitude that is felt for the selflessness he, as with many others, showed on that horrific day can only be experienced and not explained. It's a very personal gratitude that runs through all of us in our own private way. For myself, to say Thank you to him, to his children...to his family and friends, falls so very short of what I 'experience' inside when I try to find the words to express my gratitude to a man I never knew....to so many heros I don't know...who, instinctively, put their lives on the line Sept. 11 for, not only those in NYC, but for all of us across our great nation. To his children, your father is a hero. Thank you for your sacrifice as well.
Jacob Wunderlich
September 11, 2012
I am researching a victim of the 9/11 attacks for a high school project. Lt. Michael Warchola caught my eye. I will remember that day forever. Along with this memory comes sadness and tragedy, but also pride and honor in our country due to our firefighters and other first-responders. God Bless America.
Brittni White
September 10, 2012
My name is Brittni White and yesterday, Sept. 9, 2012, I did the 9/11 stair climb in Nashville. I wore the picture and name of Lt. Michael Warchola. When I was on the verge of thinking I wasn't going to be able to finish I looked down at the picture hanging from my neck and that gave me the strength to finish. Knowing that I needed to get him to the top. Well he made it to the top along side all the other 342 firefighters we lost that day. They will never be forgotten. It was an honor for me to get to climb for him and help his spirit finish the journey that he didn't get to finish 11 years ago.
Taylor
May 17, 2012
Hi, I'm researching Lt. Warchola for a project in school. I am so very sorry for your loss, and he will be remembered forever in the heart of Americans. To contact me send me an email at [email protected]
Donald Rennie
October 20, 2011
I'm Donald Rennie, a genealogist. I would like to learn about his grand parents, so that Warcholas across the land would be able to see exactly how they were related to our brave fallen hero. face book dot com / donaldrennie
L.J. Warchola
October 15, 2011
It seems like it was just yesterday - you will always be
remembered and live on in the hearts of all who love you!
You left an impression - your bravery will never be
diminished!
Carol Banks
September 11, 2011
My name is Carol Banks, I live in Colorado. Today I did the memorial 9/11 stair climb and wore the picture and name of Lt. Warchola. I thought his family would want to know that today he was remembered and honored even by someone he never knew!
Stephen Warhola
September 11, 2011
Always in our hearts and thoughts......Never ever forgotten......
Tricia Niquette
September 10, 2011
Ten years later, I still wear my Remembrance band honoring Lt. Michael Warchola. He's in my heart.
Eric Tollund
September 11, 2009
My name is Eric Tollund. I am a firefighter at Engine Co. 16, in Denver, Colorado. Many of my greatest and most influential mentors were lost on this day. Today I participated in a memorial stair climb where 343 firefighters from the Denver area climbed 110 floors in a downtown highrise to honor those lost. Each one of us was given a small picture and name of a firefighter to honor with our effort. Today I proudly carried Lt. Michael Warchola with me. It was truly a great honor. My love and prayers go out to the Warchola family and brothers from Ladder Co. 5 Bless you all.
September 11, 2009
Thinking about you Mike.............
September 11, 2009
This is for Aaron... It's been 8 years since your father was taken away. Don't think any of us will ever forget that, or you. Our love is with you always.
Momma G and Steve
Bart Lang
July 19, 2009
Mike we had alot of fun as kids growing up in Middle Village.Think of you whenever WTC comes up. The girls in our group remember you fondly.R.I.P.
Your fellow firefighter and friend
Bart Lang
Doug Abraham
February 20, 2009
Happy Birthday!!!
Doug Abraham
February 20, 2008
Happy Birthday!!!
Dan Mullins
January 26, 2008
Dear Mike:
As you know, the highest compliment one firefighter can give another is that " He is always ready."
That you were... and more.
You had our back and made us laugh to boot.
Till we meet again.
Lt. Dan Mullins E5 ( ret.)
P Tabbernor
April 14, 2007
In remembrance....
Eileen R.
September 11, 2005
It is difficult to believe that 4 years have passed since 9/11. Know that there is not even the most remote possibility that we will ever forget you or your family. We will never, ever, ever forget who you were, what you stood for, and how, as a firefighter, you stepped up in the face of adversity every day- not just on 9/11.
Elsie Fernandez
August 30, 2005
Dear Denis&Family
Iam sorry for the loss of your beloved Michael.Your beloved Michael was a hero and he is now angel.Rest in peace Michael.
God bless you and thelove ones who were left behind.
George Warchola
April 8, 2005
Lt. Michael Warchola your story of bravery, dedication and love of life is inspiring. I also share your surname and see your traits in Warchola relatives in Western Pennsylvania. There is another bond that we share. My 5 year old son’s name is Michael Warchola. He was named after his two brave uncles named Michael. One who fought during World War II and the other in Vietnam. Now we have another story to tell little Michael. Of a very brave man who when called served and gave his life to save others. We can only hope that our little Michael can live up to such a legacy.
Rest in peace and god bless to your family.
John Warchola
January 17, 2005
I wanted to say that LT. Warchola and the rest of the fireman were true hero's. In sharing the same last name I would assume that somewhere down the line we are somehow related. I don't know if I will ever find out , but I will always think of him and his heroics on that infamous day.
Eileen R.
September 11, 2004
Dear Family & Friends of Michael Warchola,
It's difficult to believe that three years have passed since that fateful day. Although we are all trying to adjust to living in a Post-9/11 World, we will NEVER forget. Lt. Warchola will ALWAYS be remembered as a true American Hero and a Shining Example of a Life Well-lived! Even though I never had the privilege of meeting him, his story has touched my life in a very special way.
My thoughts and prayers are with you on this day & always,
Eileen Redden
September 11, 2003
Today, I am sending special thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Lt. Warchola. Even though I never met Lt. Warchola, his story and the story of FDNY LADDER 5 has touched my life and work in a very special way. He will always be in my prayers and he will never be forgotten. Lt. Warchola was a true hero and a very special human being. I hope that all of you who knew and loved him will know continued healing and peace.
Teri Libassi
September 11, 2003
I came to this site to learn more about Lt. Warchola because I wear a 911 bracelet with his name on it. I can't tell you how much I appreciate everything he did and everything he sacrificed to help others. I will always treasure my bracelet & now I have an even better idea of what a special person Lt. Warchola was.
Shannon Barry
November 27, 2002
I did not know Micheal Warchola personally but I do know his former wife "Mrs. T" and his son and daughter. I go to school with his daughter. The one thing I learned from her through this tradgedy was to love my family and friends as if there were no tomarrow. Micheals death had a reason and maybe it was to simply teach me to love those I thought I could never love. Who knows!!!I do know that I will forever be thankful for Micheal,Mrs "T",his daughter and the permanent impact they have had on me.
Beth Gillaspey
September 15, 2002
I did not know Michael Warchola, but I participated in the Rolling Requiem memorial and his name was on my button. I am a high school senior from Sioux Falls SD, and I proudly wore his name as I led the cello section in our performance of three movements of Mozart's requiem. My button is now on my backpack as a reminder of what Lt Warchola and others did for our country. My prayers are with all of you who felt the loss of this man. God bless you.
Leslie Terwilliger
September 6, 2002
Having read the entries, I am once again touched by people's kindness and compassion. Mike was my former husband and the father of our children. He was a unique, extemely intelligent and very interesting man. Mike had an inexhaustive curiosity about the world we live in, and a unique perception about life. He was very well-read and loved to travel to the sometimes-obscure places he'd read about. Mike loved his children with his very being and took an active part in their lives and future. For 13 years, he was my husband, and in recent years, my very dear friend.
The children and I are very proud of him. To us, his life meant so much more than his tragic, heroic death portrayed. Yet, September 11th capped his full, yet far-too-short life.
We know that God is holding Mike in the palm of His hand, and we are confident that we will see him again in Glory.
Taylor Rumsey
September 3, 2002
I never knew Lt. Warchola, but I did know his daughter and ex-wife. I heard from them that he was a very heroic man, he saved one life of a younger fireman. He also attempted to rescue 2 others, but they sadly went with him. God Bless his family, Mike will always sadly be missed. God Bless! He was a true hero!
E Redden
July 4, 2002
On this July 4, 2002 I want to take time to honor Lt. Michael Warchola and his brothers from FDNY Ladder 5 who gave their lives on 9/11. You are not only New York's Bravest; you are truly American Heroes. A city and an entire nation will be eternally grateful to you for your courage and bravery in the face of such unspeakable danger and horror that day. You, your family, friends, and brothers at Ladder 5- who are left to carry on your work- will be in my thoughts and prayers today and always.
Angie Campbell
June 8, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
Judy
June 3, 2002
Dear Lt. Michael Warchola,
I just began reading "REPORT FROM GROUND ZERO", written by fomer firefighter Dennis Smith.
I read about your self sacrifice, dedication and determination to save countless individuals on September 11, 2001...the day no one will ever forget.
Sadly, I also read about the last moments of your life. Tears were streaming down my cheeks as I read out your heroism. I was especially touched by your story because you were an honored officer of FDNY's Ladder 5. I know a great deal about two other wonderful FDNY firefighters, who also perished on that tragic day...Firefighter Gregory T. Saucedo and Vincent Giammona...who was just recently promoted to the rank of Captain!
I know about these two men from their wonderful families.
Ladder 5 and those who perished will forever remain close to my heart.
Rest In Peace, Lt. Warchola, Gregory and Vinny...One day, I will be fortunate enough to meet you all!
God Bless all of your families...you will all remain in my thoughts and prayers!
E. Redden
May 27, 2002
This Memorial Day, I want to pay special tribute to Lt. Michael Warchola and his 7 brothers who gave their lives so courageously on 9/11.
Several months ago, while I was researching the symbol of "The Phoenix" as a possible logo for my new company, I came upon an internet link that led me to the Company Patch of FDNY Ladder 5- that also bears the logo of "The Phoenix." A firefighter later told me of the company's great losses on 9/11, and, after learning the personal stories of Michael Warchola and these fine men, I very proudly adopted "The Phoenix" as the logo for my company and named it to honor their memory and inspire me in my own work.
To the family and friends of Michael Warchola, and his brothers at Ladder 5- who are left to carry on his noble work, I offer my deepest condolences and prayers. I know that even though Michael is no longer with you, his Spirit will live in your hearts forever. I pray that God will give each of you the strength to continue to bring his Light to the world, and I promise you that I, too, will honor his memory always.
May 22, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO..LT.MICHAEL WARCHOLA AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK..MAY JESUS AND ST.MICHAEL GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Christine Barton
April 29, 2002
I did not know Mr.Warchola
but I want to say I am sorry for the loss of a life just as i am sorry for the loss of ALL the others like My daughter who was also a hero she worked in tower 2 and was very young and had a life ahead of her I can not understand how so many good people had to suffer and die but I have no words to comfort anyone but I want to pay my respects to all and may My daughter Jeanmarie wallendorf and the all of the lost of WTC rest in peace
Tammy Viola
April 19, 2002
I wear the 911 bracelet with Lt. Michael Warchola's name on it. I am a Lt. with the Mukwonago Fire Department and know the brother/sisterhood of the fire service. I won't forget Michael or the other firefighters that died trying to save others that day.
This bracelet arrived at my home the day my husband and I were fighting the fire of our life in a vacant 655,00 square foot vacant hotel. 18 departments, approximately 200 volunteer/paid-on-call firefighters, and 19 hours later we were done cleaning up. The whole day without an injury - Remarkable!!! Something tells me Michael had a hand in keeping all of us safe.
We will never forget.
Cynthia Yancho
March 21, 2002
Michael, Thank you for your sacrifice trying to save the people of New York. I never knew you but wish I had. I'm a Slovak-American just like you were and you give one more reason to be proud of it. Rest in peace dear Michael.
Pat Reader
March 13, 2002
I came to this site to learn anything I could about this brave man as I am making a block in his name for the Memorial Quilt. Until now Michael has been a name and a photo- now through his friends words I feel I know him a little more and he would have been someone I would have also have liked to call Friend.
Roseann Fornito
March 13, 2002
To the family of Mike Warchola,looking through the memorial, I came across you name and where you lived and I felt like I knew you even though we never met. I too came from Greenpoint Brooklyn although, I was on the other side of the expressway so it was considered Williamsburgh and then my family moved to Maspeth, again on the other side of Queens. I must have saw you at one time or another at Juniper Park like everyone else in the neighborhood. Once married,I am now a Staten Islander but I will always be a Brooklyn girl. I wanted to thank you for the sacrafice you made that day for all of us New Yorkers. I hope you are resting in peace now. Please say hello to fellow firefighter Carl Bedigian, another Greenpoint Brooklyn who moved to Queens. I am sure you have alot of stories to tell up in heaven. God Bless you and your family.
John Cantelmo
March 10, 2002
Although I never met Mike I know his brother Denis, we have been friends for many years. When I visited Denis in Wading River, his Dog Zero greeting me at the door.
Denis, why Zero, strange name for a little black dog.
We found him while walking home from school Denis related, I asked Mike, what are the chances Mom will let us keep him, Mike's answer was Zero. Zero lived a long and peaceful life with Denis and his family, now I hope that Mike is taking care of Zero once again.
My warm kind wishes to Mike's family, his wonderful Father Mike Sr., his brother Denis, a man I respect and love.
Let we never forget Mike Wachola and the other Brave and selfless men how gave there all while attempting to save others.
God Bless you all
Barbara Chaya
March 10, 2002
Mike I didn't know you personally but through speaking and knowing members of your family I have a good idea of what a special person you were. Even though you are no longer here I can see that your spirit lives on in your family and your children. I pray that you are resting in peace now and that your family may find solace in the fact that you were a hero on 9/11/01.
Steven Smith
March 5, 2002
I only recently learned of Mike's death at the WTC on 9/11/01. I am a classmate of his from Stuyvesant HS (class of '68). Mike was a totally unique member of that class and contributed much to our education at that time. I'll never forget his participation in the Golden Gloves and his exemplary attitude after losing a hard fought match in the finals. I have remembered him often over the years even though I lost touch with him. His family and children should know boundless pride.
I love you man,
Steve
Ellen Sackstein
January 31, 2002
I miss my friend Mike. He had a strong and independent mind, loved experiencing the physical world, understood much about evil, he was sometimes reticent, but that was OK. He was a wacky and wonderful Warchola. His love for his children Amy and Aaron was in his core. He was devoted to Ladder 5. I liked knowing he was around, he said we'd be friends for life. I am so sad he is not here.
Neal Hurwitz
January 23, 2002
The Campaign for Stuyvesant/SHS Alumni & Friends Endowment Fund, Inc.--its directors and leaders--mourn the loss of Michael Warchola, Class of '68. He is the oldest of 8 known Stuyvesant alumni/ae lost at WTC. Such a tragedy! Thanks to Joel Lustig for his remembrance, so fine.
Our hearts are with the Warcholas, especially his daughters.
God bless and be well.
Judy C
January 6, 2002
To the Warchola Family,
I am sorry for the loss of your beloved Michael. I know he is in a better place, in Heaven, because that is where heroes who have sacrificed their lives for others go when they leave this earth.
Your beloved Michael was a hero and he is now an Angel.
Rest In Peace, Michael.
God Bless you and the loved ones and friends who were left behind.
J Sanders
December 5, 2001
I personally did not know Mr. Warchola,however, I am carrying a memory tag on my key ring in memory of him. My prayers go out to all his friends and family and I was very happy to find this page so that I can have a better idea of the wonderful person Mr. Warchola obviously was. I will carry this memory tag with me always.
Teresa Jahn
December 3, 2001
America cries at such great loss. We are extremely thankful for all Michael did for others. Our hearts are with you.
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
Joel Lustig
October 28, 2001
Mike, you were a good friend during the three years (1965-68)we were classmates at Stuyvesant High School in New York City. I remember you as a person of strong intellect, high standards and uncompromising principle. Everyone at Stuy was smart, but you were also a champion Golden Gloves boxer. I will always remember you and cherish the good memories we shared in our youth. My heartfelt sympathies to your family, colleagues and friends. May you rest in peace.
patricia perks
October 9, 2001
You gave your life to save others. I will miss you more than you could ever realize. There will always be an ache in my heart and a void in my life. We were friends since we were teenagers and I will never forget your courage and bravery. I hope we will meet again some day my friend. God Bless You Mike.
Pat
Bernie Oravec
September 19, 2001
Our family has lost one of our own. Mike's courage and commitment to service are examples of how one man can do so much good in an often confusing world. I am, and always have been, proud to call him family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all members of the Warchola family. Bernie
McKenna Cole
September 19, 2001
Americans will never forget your sacrifice, for no greater love exists than the one that leads a man to lay down his life for others. America is a better place because of you. May you rest in peace. And may all who know and love you find comfort in the memories of you that live on in their hearts.
Veronica Ayres
September 19, 2001
My heart goes out to the family and frinds. May you know his passing was not in vain, but acting unselfishly, to save others. For this reason he will always be remembered as a Hero to this great country we live in. God Bless!!!
marylou holmes
September 18, 2001
your bravery is awed. to be selfless and fully given to the safety of others will always be remembered. for you our world will become a better place. you are part of the new war dead, a hero of unparallel proportions. god speed and love you. thankyou for the kindness of you. sincerely, mary lou holmes, los angeles
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