2003 Stories and Memories

Dec 26, 2003 Christmas Day

Hey Chuck ,
So it`s Christmas Day I went out to dinner with our parents . I saw you every second of the day . I remembered when we were kids together , I remember that not a day goes by when I don`t think of something we shared together . I remembered how much I love you .Next Christmas I`m cooking .

Susan

Dec 24, 2003 MERRY X-MAS CHUCK....
 
HEY CHUCK....

JUST WRITING A SHORT NOTE TO YOU IN THE ESSENCE...I MISS YOU ALOT AND I KNOW YOU'RE PROBABLY HAPPY WHERE YOU ARE. IT SEEMS EVERY TIME THE HOLIDAYS COME AROUND YOUR DEEP VOICE AND HUGS ARE GREATLY MISSED IN THIS PHYSICAL WORLD. THE WORDS COQUITO RUN CONCURRENTLY THROUGH MY HEAD AND I LAUGH INSIDE. ON A DAY LIKE TOMORROW YOU WOULD BE AT TITI CARMENS HOUSE WITH NORMA AND THE KIDS DRINKING YOUR "FAVE" DRINK AND ASKING ME "HOW WAS SCHOOL?" WELL...NOW I'M ALMOST DONE WITH MY SCHOOLING. YOUR MY ANGEL JUST AS YOU ARE FOR EVERYONE ELSE. WHEN IM DOWN IN MY CLASSES I THINK OF ALL THE SMALL JOKES YOU WOULD SAY AND IT PICKS ME UP. I WAS TAKING MY POLITICAL SCIENCE MIDTERM A MONTH AGO. I SWORE I HAD FAILED. BUT THEN I THOUGHT OF YOUR JOKES AND HUMOR AND YOUR SHINING EXAMPLE AND TOLD MYSELF TO GO ON..I PASSED THE CLASS WITH YOU BY MY SIDE. I GREATLY APPRECIATE YOU FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE AND CONTINUE TO DO FOR ME AND EVERYONE OF YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS. I LOVE YOU CHUCK...AND THANK YOU FOR TAKING CARE OF MIKE YOUR BROTHER BECAUSE WITHOUT HIM I WOULD NOT HAVE CONTINUED MY SCHOOLING EITHER.... I LOVE YOU CHUCK.....MERRY X-MAS CUZ.....

-TONY-

 ANTHONY (YOUR LIL CUZ) RAMOS

Dec 23, 2003 A Fan
 
Chuck (say it with a very high pitch) was someone very special. I remember him back in my days at football camp at Farrell, just like anyone else who went there at the same time. You can ask my children how often I yell, "time for breakfast, everybody up". Amazing the things that stick with you. Obviously Chuck left his mark on everyone he touched. We need more people like him, and he is a reminder to live our lives to the fullest. My thoughts and prayers to his family.
 
 John Stumpf, 1977

Dec 12, 2003 You Always Are Around Us
 
Dear Chuck:
I spoke to Tonto before Thanksgiving and I thought of you.
Its hunting season, and although the only thing I shoot are pictures, I thought of you.
I was swamped with work and I could use some help, and I thought of you.
The holidays are coming, and I thought of you.
I wanted to say hello to someone I miss, and I thought of you.
Biz

Tony Bisignano

Nov 28, 2003 Greatly Honored
 
Dear Mr. Mike Margiotta..... I am sorry I have taken so long to reply, I read and study every aspect of your brother LT. Chuck Margiotta, and I am very grateful for receiving the LT. Chuck Margiotta Memorial Scholarship Award. From reading about him I have come to understand what a great man he really was. He reminds me of how I am.[SMILES]. Every year on 9/11 I will remember him, you and the day I became a part of him with this award, and the scholarship that bares his name. THANK YOU VERY MUCH AND KEEP YOUR HEAD UP HIGH. LOVE ALWAYS SABRINA....
 
 Sabrina Monique Braxton

Nov 9, 2003 The Recital

Hey Chuck,

Went to "not so little" Charlies guitar recital last week. Talk about a flashback! Charlie and Brian Logan performed a Black Sabbath song. I know Charlie has wanted to do that for the longest time. It was something you shared with him. Charlie always talks about the Ozzy concert you guys went to. It must have been tough for Charlie to get through it...but HE DID. And he was terrific! They sounded great, and nobody was covering up any mistakes. A drummer sat in, and they had a singer, but the guitar and bass were all Charlie and Brian. I am sure you enjoyed the show.

When Charlie played, his face looked just like yours when you PRETENDED to play the guitar...LOL. All his expressions were yours! I was so proud of him...and I am sure he knows how proud you are of him. He has practiced hard and stuck with it...and it shows. Dad said, "I don't know what the hell the song is, but he plays it good."

It seems impossible, but Charlie took the co-op test the other day. He says he thinks he did well. He wants to go to Farrell. Can you believe it? He is doing great in school and I am sure things will work out.

We will be anxiously waiting for the letter of acceptance that comes in March. If you find out before us...send us a sign.

I love you,
Michael

Mike Margiotta

Oct 12, 2003 The Visit

Chuck, thanks for visiting dad. He waited the longest to feel you. He needed to know you were happy. He told me he asked if you are happy when he saw you. You told him as only you can, "Are you kidding?...Of course I'm happy!"

He thought you were going to go away before he could "physically" feel you. But you hugged him, and he was able to feel what I have been trying to explain to him since you came to me. You gave to him something that only someone who has felt it, can relate to.

He cried till he was exhausted. But it was tears of happiness for you. It was something he needed to remove the doubts he had. Knowing YOU are happy is what dad needed. When the tears stopped, I saw dad as he had not been since September 11th...at peace.

I told him how your visit made me wish it would never end, and yet how thankful I was to have had it. He now knows exactly what I meant.

You give us strength every day.
I love you....your brother Michael
 
 Michael

Oct 3, 2003 Childhood memories

When I think of Cousin Chuck, I go back to when I was a little girl.
Myself, my nan, mom, and sister use to go to Uncle Charlie's house for Fourth of July Barbecues
and summer fun. I remember jumping in the pool, fireworks and plenty of food.
My first thought whenever I knew I was going to Uncle Charlies is that I was going
to see my Cousin Chuck. He always made you laugh and smile and I can
remember always looking forward to seeing my Cousin Chuckie. The life of the party and
a person we will always remember. Thanks Cousin Chuckie for my childhood memories.
 
 Gemma

Oct 2, 2003 I DID IT!!!!
 
Dear Dad,

I know you are really proud right now...i finally made VARSITY SOFTBALL. I was thrilled when i found out today..I knew you were up there smiling at me. I reached my goal, and I knew you were with me every step of the way. Thanks for always watching me. I love you DAD!!!

Norma Jean Margiotta
Varsity Finally!!!

Sep 29, 2003 Special Delivery
 
 Chuck,

Today I went into the post office to mail a couple of the T-shirts we had made up of you. (The shirts with your picture and website address on them). I purchased 2 envelopes from the postal worker so I could package them. I folded "you" as neatly as possible into the envelope – making sure your beautiful face and smile weren’t wrinkled. One package was going to your good buddy Tony Toranto and one was going to a Darla Margiotta in Lousiana, who Mike met through your website....funny she’s no relation.

I then walked up to the postal window so the packages could be weighed for postage. The postal clerk weighed them and he then said, “Would you like to send these express?…It’s $3.25 for next day and $2.65 for 2-3 days delivery”. I said, “I’ll take the cheaper rate”. He then said “Would you like insurance on these packages?” I said “No thanks”. It’s funny…as he was asking all of these questions I was standing there saying to myself “ This will get there no problem – its CHUCK”. I knew you didn’t need any extra help.

A strange feeling swept over me, almost as if you were standing there with me and with no hesitation at all, I blurted out to the postal worker “Angels always get to where they are going”. As I turned around there were at least 10 people waiting in line behind me wondering if I had lost my mind. But I knew I hadn’t. I was sure it was true.
You are always with us,
Love Patti
 
 Patti Margiotta

Sep 27, 2003 Teammate
 
Dear Margiotta Family -

I WILL NEVER FORGET HIM!

From a past teammate -

John Sinisi (Brick, NJ )
September 24, 2003

Sep 27, 2003 HANNIBAL
 
I was one of the stunt coordinators on "Hannibal" the movie, Chuck was a great friend, and a great person to have around. My prayers go out to his family and friends. He was a hero, and I consider myself very fortunate to have known him, it was a pleasure and an honor.

Cal Johnson (Charleston, SC )
September 11, 2003

 Cal Johnson

Sep 23, 2003 Paintball
 
Playing paintball with Chuck during the summer of 2001. He always seemed to hit me. I still have the scar on my right arm... nice shot buddy!!!!!
 
 Barry Czerno

Sep 13, 2003 Hey...

The other day on the 2nd year anniversary. I was leaving my school (bmcc). The tribute lights were shining so bright into the sky. I went across the street to take a closer look and to wait for the bus. I happened to stare at the lights and noticed something strange but unique. Little bright lights floating in between the beams. I don't know if it was just me but I could'nt take my eyes off of them.. I finally just came to the conslusion that those bright little stars are the souls of good people. You are one of those bright stars I saw. I know you are well rested hanging out with my Papi and trying to speak your spanglish. we will all be together again.. Love you...

-Gloria Ramos

Sep 13, 2003 My Four Leaf Clover

So the start of my second year at the University of Delaware wasn’t a big hit. Trunks, boxes, furniture, and clothes weren’t the only things to “move in” on move-in day---of course the fever, hacking cough, hives, midnight trips to the infirmary, and computer problems came along too and made themselves at home for over a week. Although the crying to Mom and Dad over the phone is usually a quick remedy for any of my problems, I needed something more than an ear to listen this time. My fingers were tired from typing countless instant messages to my Dad and I was unsuccessful in finding a “smiley” face that showed exactly how upset I was. . .so I sat back in my chair. My eyes wanderd to a place on my desk that I designated for some of my special things. Next to the Sammy Davis, Jr. book entitled WHY ME?, was the planner that I had used last semester that read “2003”. After deciding that I would make it useful for the rest of 2003, I took it off the shelf and watched WHY ME? fall to its side. I opened the planner for the first time since May, and without a bookmark, the pages were opened to the correct week. Although not yet written on, the pages were not empty. A dried four leaf clover lay there, and I knew things would get better...

Last semester was a little rough too. I hadn’t planned that trying out for the U of D soccer team would last nearly 2 whole months. Although I had much confidence in my abilities, it was the first time that my Dad hadn’t been there to watch me during anything of significance regarding my soccer career. He’d always let me know how I REALLY did and if I was stupid for being upset for a shot that a goalkeeper on the Italian National Team couldn’t have saved. Without that second opinion, I was looking for something extra to help me through the tryouts, hoping that I would find something that would tell me that Uncle Chuck was there the whole time. So at every practice I’d look around to find a sign or symbol to associate with him. I found nothing. . .but then I had a dream:

Uncle Chuck walked by me and kicked me a soccer ball that he’d walked past. I was confused and frustrated because he didn’t look at me. I asked him why he wouldn’t look at me and he said, “You don’t always have to see me to know I’m there.”

The next day on my short walk to the dining hall, I looked to the left of the concrete path and, without searching through the small patch of green, bent down and picked up one of the many clovers. This one was a four leaf clover. When I got back from dinner I immediately opened my 2003 planner so that it would have a safe place and wouldn’t crumble. The book opened to a page that displayed a picture of Hawaii with some history of it. At that time, I was on the waiting list for the winter session class I’d applied for that was offered in Hawaii. A week later, I got an email stating that I’d been accepted to the program. So the four leaf clover stayed there until move-out day in May. When I picked up the planner to pack it away, the clover slipped out. I opened the book again and gave it a new home at the page I’d opened at random.

After a summer of unplanned events, the four leaf clover, Uncle Chuck, was there to remind me that he’d put some order back in my life. I put the planner back on the shelf and WHY ME? stood tall again.

Uncle Chuck, Thank You for always finding me.
Love, Sarah

P.S.
Wearing your Hula girl charm, I signed the release forms for Hawaii on September 11th.

Sep 12, 2003 Will Always by remembered
 
Well two years have gone by and theres not a day that I don't think of you and big Paul,you are two men that I will always be proud to say I knew.THE REAL TWIN TOWERS CHUCK&PAUL.

ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS&MINDS NEVER WILL BE FORGOTTEN!!!!!!!
I HAD THE HONOR OF SHARING A FEW MINUTES WITH CHUCK& HIS SON TWO TIMES IN THE SUMMER OF 2001.
I AM THE GUY WHO HAD MOTORCYCLES GROWING IN MY YARD.

Dennis O\'Brien

Sep 11, 2003 Happy Anniversary

 Happy Anniversary in heaven Chuck.When I hear thunder I always think it's you yelling up there.Thanks for the memories
 
 Tom delPino

Sep 11, 2003 I know you are here

Hi Chuck,

I can’t believe 2 years have gone already. It seems like yesterday, it seems like ages ago. Mike was the 1st friend I met and being friends with Mike, that makes you my 2nd friend. We go way back. Funny, I feel closer to you today than ever. Mike and I remained best of friends, always in touch with each other but you and I went different ways. We would always ask about each other and were happy to see one another but we grew apart. My loss. Now I think about you every day and find myself talking to you when I’m driving and catch a glimpse of you on my visor. I feel you with me watching over us. We were on vacation and in the nightclub one night. All the guests had assigned seating at tables of 12. Melissa and I left the kids behind and we went to see the show. There was a group of people at the front of the table and we went to take 2 back seats. We were just talking when I noticed the closest guy sitting next to me was built just like you. I struck up some small talk with him and he had your same gravely voice. We were joking about it and I told him he reminded me of a dear friend lost in 9/11, that he even had the same voice as him. I asked him if he was drinking sand to sound like that. Just then the show started. I turned in my seat to see the show and I noticed that my new friend was gone. Melissa was going to ask the family where he went but I asked her not too. There could be hundreds of logical explanations of who he was, whom he was with and where he went but I didn’t want to hear any of that. To me that was YOU just checking in. I cannot even begin to know the pain your family is in. I do truly know that you are around them watching out for all. You always were bigger than life. I love and miss you. Can’t wait to see you again.

Love, “The Bird”

 Steven

Sep 11, 2003 Today in my class

Today(9/11/03) in my class I made sure to spend a few minutes discussing the great loss that our students suffered 2 years ago. Chuck loved to sub for OES. He had a wonderful way with our difficult students. I had a special tribute for Chuck today in class. His legacy will live on. GOD BLESS EVERYONE.
 
 Evelyn Cuevas

Sep 11, 2003 Brown U ceremony

Today at 6 pm the members of the Delta Tau fraternity at Brown University and all available members of the Delt Foundation will place a wreath at the base of the tree planted on campus in honor of Chuck and the other brothers lost on 9/11/01. To Chuck's family: your son/brother/husband/father has not been forgotten, and his spirit is being passed through those of us who knew him to the current and future members of our brotherhood.
 
 Chas Kimes

Sep 11, 2003 In Memory and Honor

On this, the 2nd anniversary of that tragic day, I wish to once again extend my condolences and prayers to the Margiotta family, as well as to all the families who lost loved ones.
God bless you all.

Paul Clagett
New Braunfels, TX

Aug 29, 2003 A Dedication

Dear Mike,
I never had the pleasure of meeting or knowing your Brother Chuck, but we share the same vocation and last name. I am Guiseppe Margiotta from Pagosa Springs Colorado, and a volunteer member of the Pagosa Fire Department. I am a native of Manhattan and was raised in Little Italy on Mott St. where my grandfather owned Diamonds Caf� many years ago. I moved to Colorado after High School in ’68 and returned annually to visit my mother Adele Margiotta who lived in the apartments on Ebbitts St. in New Dorp on Staten Island.
Last year our Fire Dept. had a memorial service to honor the Firefighters of 9-11-01 in which we read all the missing Firefighters names. I read Charles Margiotta and will never forget the feeling I had of sadness. This letter to you and your family has taken a lot of time for me to compose because I am lost for words to express my family’s grief to you and your family. My family has prayed for your loss and dedicated Novenas and Masses at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church here in Pagosa Springs.
Our Fire Chief, Warren Grams who is also a N.Y. transplant helped me create a memorial to Chuck and the other victims of 9-11. It is a poster my wife sent away for. I made a wood frame to mount it in. The memorial poster will have a prominent location behind the podium in our training facility. The brass inscription that will be mounted to the frame will read as follows:
IN MEMORY OF LT. CHARLES (CHUCK) MARGIOTTA
JAN-15-1957 SEPT.-11
FDNY BAT.22 ENG.165 LAD.85
We will dedicate this memorial at the September 6, 2003 monthly meeting.
I would also like to compliment you on the website it is an awesome tribute to Chuck.
Sincerely,
Guiseppe Margiotta

Aug 11, 2003 Getting to know Chuck
 
I don't feel "qualified" to write because I never actually met Chuck, but I feel as if I need to ass something. See, I grew up in Queens, which is about as far from Staten Island as you can get and still be in the same City. I graduated in 1976 from a school that will remain nameless (here's s hint: their mascot is a yapping little dog!). Maybe somewhere in one of my yearbooks is a picture of a football game against Farrell, and maybe Chuck's there, but I was never one for the organized sports in school, so I never paid much attention except to the rivalry between us and Holy Cross up the road from us (another hint).

I married your former St Rita's classmane, Anne Marie Passaro, eleven years ago, and from that first day I was hearing stories of Farrell football, the parties and Chuck. My brother in-law, Joe, played with you at Farrell. Once in a while when we were out shopping, Anne would point out Chuck to me and say that that was the guy she always talked about. I remember the first tme I saw him...I though I'd NEVER want to be on his bad side!

As you know, Anne was at work on the 81st floor of the North tower on September 11th, and the longest hours of my life was between phone calls from her. We went to Chuck's memorial and as I sat there listening to the words, stories, testimonials, I was sad that I never got to meet the man. I felt "cheated" somehow because he seemed like this Superman who did everything, and did it well. I would probably have been on the fringe of the group, had I lived on the Island back then.

The more I listened that day, and during visits to E165/L85 and all the other events there were, the less I felt like an outsider. From your words, Tommy DelPino's stories and all the others, I came to know Chuck as they knew him, which is how I would have wanted to know him, also.

Mike, you're doing a good thing with this site. Keeping Chuck's memory alive is no small undertaking. And if I may be so bold as to suggest a Chuck-ism....I'm sure he's looking down on this and saying "Don't put THAT picture out in cyberspace, willya?"
 
 Dale Koster

Jul 16, 2003 The Crystalline Entity

 Hunting birds (Grouse) with Chuck and my Springer Spaniel dog named Hunt in the sub zero month of February at over 3000 feet in the Adirondacks was a feat of physical prowess that could only be attempted with my best friend Chuck. A foot of ice covered every rock and ledge and we avoided such slippery hazards by going off the trail and getting better footing in the snow. It was about ten below zero up at a place called Lost Pond in the Soda Mountain Range about seventeen miles from Lake Placid. Chuck and I were in our element and it was only with Chuck that I was able to revel in the camaraderie that we shared while doing things we both loved. We would do these brutal hunts because we both loved to push ourselves to the limit; however, it was not torture for us. The harder and colder the hunt the better we would like it. Everything that day was covered with ice and the sun had peaked out from the clouds just as we had reached the winter grandeur of Lost Pond. We both, at the same time, looked across the pond and saw the sun shine bounce off of the iced over pine trees of the hill that overlooks Lost Pond. The ice on the pine trees made a million tiny glistening prisms as the sunrays burst upon the side of the hill, making a million rainbow colors while the wind constantly caused the ice on the trees to loudly snap and crack. We had both seen an episode of “Star Trek the Next Generation” about a living thing in space that was called The Crystalline Entity. We agreed that the hill looked just like The Crystalline Entity and looked at each other, knowing that we were in the place where we wanted to be and there could be no place better or more beautiful. And, at that moment, we both knew that we shared the same thoughts, the same feelings and the beautiful vision of that sparkling hill at Lost Pond.
The Grouse were not popping up that day so we decided to hunt EACH OTHER. Chuck and I were constantly honing our camouflage and ambush techniques and we scampered helter skelter down the mountain while all the time competing on who could ambush who. When we reached the trail at the bottom of the mountain we suddenly got tired of our game and called a truce. Just as we were about to unload and call it a day we looked down at the snow at the same time and saw Grouse tracks. The hunt was on! My dog popped one up and I took two quick shots from my side-by-side 20 gauge double barrel. Chuck and I ran down to the stream where we saw the bird disappear from view but we could not find it even with my dog Hunt running around searching. We stayed and looked for that bird for an hour and finally decided, by the way the tracks had gone, that the Grouse must be under a large fallen tree that covered a small cave in the stream. I brought my dog over to the cave and Hunt started going bonkers the way he always did when he knew a bird was hiding. But this bird was in a cave that was in a stream and Hunt couldn’t get to him! No problem! I stood in the stream and squat lifted the large tree while Chucky picked up my dog and stuffed him in the cave like he was front loading a cannonball in a canon. This up surd scene was not lost on our sense of humors and we were uncontrollably laughing while doing this and it took many attempts just to get through our comic hysteria. Low and behold, out comes the Grouse in Hunts mouth while Chucky pulled my dog out of the cave by his hind legs. We both screamed in victory while my dog barked and ran in circles to augment our triumph. Chucky skinned the Grouse right there and gave Hunt the guts to eat while I made a small fire in the snow. We popped open the Budweisers which we prevented from freezing by keeping them in our hunting coats and cooked the bird and ate it right there. More Buds and cigarettes followed as we leisurely made our way back along the trail to the car.

Most of our hunts were just as eventful; God put Chuck with me so I could experience these times with him. We won’t ever pass down those trails again but at least I can think of the way it was……………..
 
Bruce Alterman

Jul 5, 2003 hola mi compadre
 
 Hi Chucky:

Sitting in your back yard yesterday on the 4th of July and looking at your picture hanging on the tool shed and seeing the smile upon your face, you must have felt great knowing that the 4th of July is still being kept in the true tradition of Chuck.

I know your angel wings are keeping the family together, but let me tell you... not having you at the grill is pretty bad.

Chuck in my mind I heard your voice saying "Charlie STOP!"...Well I want you to know I still have a ringing in my ear from the ball that hit my head and I know you were laughing through that whole incident. That's ok because I'll get you back. Until then we will continue our daily conversations on my way to work because you know I don't listen to the radio. Love you alway, Ruth

 tu commadre

Jul 3, 2003 This is a beautiful and comforting site

 Mike,
My husband Mike and I were discussing the fact that our son Stephen just joined the NYPD,on July 1 and the risks that these guys take everyday. Of course the events of 9-11-01 came up once again and your brother Chuck became part of the discussion, which then brought me to this site. I am glad I logged on because it made me feel at peace with myself. I have really mixed feelings about his decision, but it is of course, his decision. He just graduated from college on May 27 and I started wondering why he would become an officer after all his hard work getting an education. I was expecting a different career choice for him. Then browsing this site I started reading all the stories about Chuck, when he was attending Brown. I felt that I was sent to this site tonight by Chuck so that I could be reminded that education and heroism go hand in hand. And for some reason I feel a little more at ease with mysef and understand my son's decision a little beter. I'd like to believe that your brother had something to do with this new found serenity I am experiencing tonight. Just thought I'd share this story with you. I love and miss you.
Karen Durnin

Jun 21, 2003 Firehouse Garden
 
Hey Chuck I know you want the garden to grow, but could you turn off the rain for awhile and give the plants a chance to get a little sun.
 
Tom delPino

May 22, 2003 Proud Dad

Well Chuck...I know how proud you were last night at the Sports Dinner for Notre Dame HS. We all were. I wore your pin proudly over my heart. I felt my heart pound with the pride of both of us as Norma Jeans name was announced as the MVP of the J.V. Softball team!!

She had a great season. She played with alot of energy and had alot of big hits, including a nice "Gap Shot" home run in the last game. The Margiotta tradition continued as she played almost every inning of the season, ALL behind the plate. Norma Jean has your arm! After the first few games, not too many runners were testing her.

I felt your pride last night. Norma, Patti & I were all there. You know Daddy hates those dinners...lol.

Me and Patti enjoy having games to go to now that Sarah and Michael are away at college. We had a fun season.
 
 Mike Margiotta

May 5, 2003 My Hell Night At Delt
 
The main reason I pledged Delta Tau in the winter of 1978 was due to a performance by Chuck and Bruce on the old Delta Tau piano during an open house at Delt. After their masterful performance I was laughing so hard,.....well, you all know those guys, needless to say it was hilarious. I figured with guys like these around here, the laughs will never end. So I pledged. After a spirited kidnapping season which saw a record number of kidnappings, during which Pumpy and Brucie were also victims, Hell Night was upon us. Without going through the gory details, my first encounter that night was with Chuck and Bruce. Needless to say they went about their duties with their usual flair and attention to detail. I thought to myself, "What have I gotten myself into here??". Which, I am sure, is exactly what they wanted me to think!!! Anyway I made it through, and the feeling we all had afterwards, drinking and toasting and back slapping and of course laughing, I wouldn't trade for anything in the world. I know young Mike was feeling the same way this past weekend. I know all of the Margiotta's are proud and happy about Mike's accomplishments, but none are as proud as Chuck. You are right Mike Sr., he is smiling ear to ear!!! I still think about him all of the time. When I think of Brown, or the war, or any mention of September 11, he and David are always there. God bless all of you and thank you God for letting me get to know Chuck Margiotta.
Marty Pudlowski
Delt President 1980-1981

May 4, 2003 A New Delt

Well Chuck, I know you were smiling from ear to ear last night. As you know it was Hell Night at Brown University for Delta Tau, your old Fraternity. You must have gotten a kick pointing Michael out to the other Angels as he suffered through what I am sure was a grueling night. I know you wouldn't use your influence to make things too easy on him...and yet, I am sure you watched over and protected him.

I don't know who is more proud of the events that have transpired; Michael, me or you? He has wanted to carry on your legacy at Brown and has made us all proud.

I am passing your 1979 Fraternity paddle and Delta Tau beer mug down to your newly pledged "Frat Brother" Michael. This is a great day.

I Love you....Your brother Michael
 
 Mike Margiotta

Apr 23, 2003 Visiting Home
 
 Hi Chuck,
Today I visited your Mom and Dad with Michael and Patti. It was the first time I was in the house in about 20 years, maybe more. Walls and carpeting may change over time,what hadn't changed was the same warm feeling I got as soon as I entered the door. We sat on the couch and talked just like old times. Mom was asking "So what is going on in your life now?". Dad was talking about his boys, he is so proud. I couldn't help but feel like a teenager all over again. I felt like I was waiting for you to come home, then I realized you were there the whole time. It was wonderful to see everyone. Some things never change, even though time marches on. I will always cherish your family in my heart, they are the best.
Luv
Karen

Karen Ruffler Scarpa

Apr 19, 2003 A Fish(iing) Story......sort of.........
 
I never went hunting with Chuck. It wasn't my thing and he never made fun of me for it.
I never rode motorcycles with Chuck. It wasn't my thing and he ALWAYS made fun of me for it!!
Chuck's zest for the outdoor life is well known. While I never particpated in his rituals...I do have a fish story that serves me as a great reminder of Chuck's ability to assess a situation quickly and respond immediately. No, we never WENT fishing....it's about us EATING FISH.....

Chuck and I were at the annual Cooley's Anemia Dance for Alicia Somma, along with our wives and several friends.The cocktail hour was going full force and so , by the way, were we.
Along comes a waiter with a full tray of Clams Oreganatto, fresh from the kitchen. Chuck eyes the
tray ravenously, he LOVES his clams, and says to the waiter in his unmistakeable graveely voice," Just leave the whole tray." The waiter, a seventeen year old says to Chuck , with this nasally kid voice, " i'm sorry sir, but I was told only 5 to a platter."
I glance at Chuck, he's wounded, he makes that face..you know the one...where his eyebrows arch up on one side and his lips are in a Dirty Harry sneer. I say to myself," OOPS." This kid is about to feel Chuck's venom. Instead, Chuck orders, " Wait here!!" Turns to Norma..."you finished with that plate? Before she can answer, Chuck has 5 clams on the plate.He takes my wife's plate and fills it.
Takes everybody's plate at the table and is filling them with the 5 count allotment. While doing this he turns to the people at the next table and syas'" hey Lady, give your plate to Tonto, we need clams.So now I'm taking plates from other people and Chuck is dutifully filling them.
Then with a clam in his hand...and one left on the kid's platter, he turns to me, winks, and growls at the waiter..."now go get me and Tonto some Fried Calamari!!"
 
Tony Taranto

Apr 10, 2003 The Charm

I have a chain at home that's too heavy to wear. Every Christmas and any special occasion meant another charm for me. Uncle Chuck had gotten me a variety of them, ranging from a graduation cap to "the" PlayBoy bunny head. The first Christmas after September 11th, I got a charm; but it was from my Dad this time. It was the picture of my uncle, bigger than all the others. I put it on a chain all its own. Today, for the first time in my life, I bought myself a charm. Having no intention of getting anything when I walked into the jewelry store, something caught my eye. Without having to turn the small spinning rack, a charm of a hula girl was eye level. I picked it up and knew Uncle Chuck had picked it out for me. Theres a special occasion coming up. I'll be going to Hawaii in January to study abroad.
 
 Sarah Margiotta

Apr 5, 2003 Such a Beauty!!
 
Wow Chuck...I ran into your daughter and Sarah at the Mall..Wow again. She is stunning. My eyes could not believe what I was seeing, a perfect assemblage of you and Norma. Around her neck she had her charm with your picture, she's all for her Daddy. The two of them were just so gorgeous, so sweet together, so family. I know you watch her daily, and she knows it also. I just had to tell you, even though I told you as soon as it happened, what a beautiful girl you have there Chuck, you and Norma, she's such a legacy to you, my sweet sweet Friend...love~Melissa

Apr 4, 2003 Till We Meet Again
 
Chuckie....To respond to the WTC disaster on your own time just shows the kind of person you were. Willing to help people in need no matter what.The people and the City of New York lost one of the best that morning. I'm sure your in a better place now looking over your family. You came a long way from the days when we went to grammer school(St Rita's), I almost wish we could do it again.
Till we meet again.....MJK

Mark Kelly

Apr 3, 2003 Possible family tree

Hello Mike,

Nice to meet you. My name is Darla Margiotta, I live in Louisiana in the Metro
New Orleans area and attend Tulane University. I ran across the strangest
thing, this Sept 11, 02. Over here in New Orleans, our daily paper “The Times
Picayune” took their front page and turned it into a tribute to all the people
who lost their lives on 9-11-01. I decided to have it framed in memory. Now
you realize there were something like 3000 names on this list and I decided to
scan thru the names and see if I would stumble onto a “Margiotta”, what would
be the chances, and I stumbled onto a Charles Margiotta, age 44. Tonight I
decided to search the internet “Margiotta’s” to see what I would come up with
and I stumbled upon your brother’s tribute.

Great site, great tribute to your brother.

Thanks


Darla C. Margiotta
Tulane University

Apr 3, 2003 What a small world!
 
 I was having one of my student/parent conferences for college today (I am a guidance counselor). The young man was asking me about colleges in Staten Island. I happened to mention that I was from the Island and his mother and I started to talk about places on the Island and about our families. I mentioned Margiotta Sports and it turned out that she knew the family! She was shocked when I showed her Chuckie's memorial pin and told me the story of how he was in her brother-in-laws wedding party. It amazes me how Chuck touches all of our lives til this day because of his persona. Just wanted to let you know Mike, that he is still larger than life!
Love ya,
Jayne

Mar 31, 2003 Basketball Season...
 
Last night, another basketball season at St.Rita's concluded. Mr.Margiotta you would be very proud of the hardwork and dedication of everyone who put there time and effort into the season especially the directors Rob Brennan and Rob Ricco. There are even some new kids in the program helping out that you would be very proud of. No one has forgotten you!
 
 Danny Fisher

Mar 31, 2003 Sorry it took so long to write....

I'm sorry it took so long to write. Sometimes I feel that it was only yesterday that I heard your voice on my answering machine asking me to use my address for your New Jeresy hunting license and magazines. Actually it was the week before 9/11 and I saved your voice as long as the phone company would let me. I never really told anyone, because I felt that a little piece of you, selfishly, remained with me.
But now, I feel the need to come on and talk about Chuckie. Growing up, Chuckie and Mike, along with my other cousins were very close to my family. My mom's sisters, Molly and Glenda, always made sure that we were brought up together. We were the ones that moved so far from Staten Island to New Jersey (wow what a distance..lol). Almost every weekend though, the sisters made sure that they saw each other and that the kids spent time together.
We played army in the "hills" by our house. The boys played "War". The famous story about Chuckie getting stuck in our dryer because he was trying to "hide" from the enemy. We "camped out" in the Winnebago. Chuckie always was the big bear. He couldn't stand to see anyone hurt or left out. Was he nuts? Absolutely. Was he kind and gentle? You bet.
He was always there for everyone, especially when my Dad died suddenly. He cried with us and for the loss of "Uncle Dick". I will always treasure the closeness we had and hope that he is sitting with my dad drinking a beer and knowing how much we miss and love them.
love you... Jayne

 Cousin Jayne

Mar 29, 2003 This Bomb!

Well, I was running at the mouth about how I knew you would not die in vain Chuck. Today I got some proof..was listening to a Marine stationed over in Kuwait. He's one of the guys in charge of bombing Baghdad. He writes on his bombs, what he's been writing is this, "This Bomb is for New York!!!" I knew then that he was avenging you Chuck, you Paul, Jimmy Ladley, all of you are united as Heroes!! "This Bomb's for you Chuck!" I miss you..love~Melissa

Mar 24, 2003 Coaching From Above

Hey Chuck,

WOW...How proud you must have been to see Norma Jean in her first H.S. Softball game. I guess all your pointers did not fall on deaf ears after all.

She was possessed!! Norma Jean walked 4 times...threw out a runner at 2nd base...stole 2 bases...scored 3 times, all before the last and most important inning!

The visiting team got up in the top of the 7th inning of a 6-6 game. The leadoff batter put down a beautiful bunt between the pitcher and catcher (Norma Jean). The ball rolled slowly toward the 3rd base side of the mound. Norma Jean threw off her mask and pounced on the ball and threw a laser beam to first base, getting the runner by a step! That would prove to be very important as the visiting team went on to take a lead of 7-6 with Norma Jeans team coming up to bat.

Norma Jean worked out ANOTHER walk to lead off the bottom of the last inning. She stole second. She moved to 3rd on a couple of infield plays. With 2 outs, Norma Jean sprinted home just ahead of the tag on a passed ball to tie the game 7-7. The batter then made the last out and the game was over. The team was thrilled as they tied a very good team and a very good pitcher.

It was a great way to start the season for your beautiful daughter. She was congratulated by her teammates on her performance and walked off the field with a familiar "bounce in her step". A bouncing walk I had seen so many times before when you and I played together.

...But why am I telling you all this....I know you were there and saw it all for yourself...I guess I am just bragging in your place to everyone who will read this story.

Norma Jean and Charlie are both making you proud...we are very close and I am so grateful to be able to share so much of their lives.

Thank You Chuck...I love You
 
Michael Margiotta

Mar 20, 2003 For You

Well now we are at war and what has been going through my mind is that Chuck, you are not going to have died in vain..your death is being avenged as we speak! No one forgot you, or Paul, or the thousands of others who perished that day. Anyone who speaks against the President and his actions in Iraq, in my opinion, speaks against those whose lives were taken from us and the world on 9/11..so to all of your family whom I love deeply; Norma, Norma Jean, Charlie...Mike, Patti, Sarah, and Michael, Molly, Charlie, all your Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends..This is FOR YOU CHUCK..and all those brave and selfless people, and the innocents who only went to earn a daily wage..This one's for all of you! I love The Margiotta family, please never forget that I am always praying for you and hold you all so dear in my heart~Melissa
 
Melissa

Mar 6, 2003 Passing the Firehouse

I know, I know, I'm posting too often..please forgive me if I am making anyone crazed. But, for me it's cathartic and anything that makes this process bearable is what has to be done. Passing your firehouse has become a ritual for me. As I round that bend from either Snake Hill Direction, or coming back from Richmond Rd. I get my thoughts in order; how's the garden looking, wow, that fence looks great, oh that picture of you in the black and white is a great choice..etc. Then I think of the days I passed when you were there..I'd slow down as you were washing a car, tending the tomatoes, whatever. "Hey Chuck," suddenly as you turned and engaged my eyes there was no one else there for a while.."Hey Meliss..come 'ere." I would bring the car into the drive and what would start out as a two minute conversation in my mind invariably ended up a twenty minute conversation. Everything from pit bulls to Steven..whenever you mentioned Steven something happened to those twinkling eyes of yours, they became heavy with the knowledge that someone you love is sick, someone you fished with, jumped off roofs with, carried on through life with is sick, and you couldn't stop it. But, you loved him and he loved you and just by those few words, I knew it and I made sure Steven knew it. I pass your house almost daily, the ritual is calming for me. But I will never get over that you won't be there to call me into the driveway ever again..Hope God helps us all Chuck, watches us and keeps us strong..man do we need it! love~Melissa
 
Feb 25, 2003 Lost connections
 
The first time I was connected to the Margiotta family was in a play at St. Ritas called A Christmas Carol. I was about 12. Chuckie was Scrooge(out of character for him) and Michael was Jacob Marley. I was the ghost of Christmas Past. I can remember working on lines with them, and Mr. and Mrs. Margiotta helping all the kids with costumes and just being totally involved. I admired them as a family and stayed connected all through High School. They were my extended family. Always welcoming me as if I was their sister. They always protected me. I loved being around them. We had so much fun. To me, it was not a surprise to see the man that Chuckie became. He had wonderful role models. As with everything else, time marches on. We all get involved in our every day life, and our own families. I saw Chuckie a few times after I moved off the Island. It wasn't enough. Then I saw him in the movie Frequency. I was screaming to my kids, "Thats Chuckie!... my long lost friend". And I would say, "I am going to call him". Then came Sept. 11th, one of the saddest days of my life. It was too late to call him. To know Chuckie was missing was devestating. To this day I still can't believe it. I miss the family. I think about you guys and Chuckie all the time. I laugh at the good times we had through those years. I'm sorry I didn't spend more time staying connected to this family that meant so much to me. God Bless Chuckie, I know he is up there smiling down on all of us, it wouldn't be any other way.
Love you guys,
Karen
 
Karen Ruffler Scarpa

Feb 24, 2003 Hero

This is a poem i had to write for English class at Notre Dame Academy.

I once knew a Man.
He was Strong and Mighty.

Everyone looked up to Him.
Like He was there Daddy.

He helped the weak and comforted the lonely.
He was the helping hand,that was Bold and Worldly.

Everyone Loved Him, He brightened any day.
Until a few cowards came and took His life away.

Till this day, He is the one who saved the day!
And yes, He lives on to come and brighten your day.
 
Norma Jean Margiotta

Feb 14, 2003 where are you

Well Chuck today is a day to remember your love ones, family and friends. So I take this time to tell you that you are loved very much no matter where you are. Chuck you know we are living in very trouble times and I want to know where are you? You alway knew how to make us feel safe. Well chuck we miss you a bunch prayers, hugs and kisses your sis ruth.

it's me again ruth

Feb 13, 2003 I Knew You Were There
 
Two weeks ago I shot the biggest buck I have taken yet, and I knew you were there. I was on my way to the farm. The farm you had introduced me to twenty years earlier. The farm I met you at on more cold, dark mornings than I can count. Hoffman's farm. Where we would sit after a hunt, with Old Man Hoffman and listen to stories of New York at the turn of the century.
I had decided to hunt your stand that day. Weeks earlier I attached the button with your picture on it to the stand. I felt like you needed to be there. I rarely hunted your stand because it was so close to the ground,(you always hated to climb)but on this day I felt like I needed to be in your presence.

I got into the stand and you were looking up at me, the button still attached to the old carpet you, me and Little Charlie had tacked down years ago. I spoke silently with you for awhile, going over strategy and the likelihood of deer coming from this direction or that. It was comforting to have you in the woods with me again.

At 4pm I saw something I have never seen in over twenty years of hunting. Four shootable bucks walking together in the middle of January! I stayed calm and waited for the largest to come within range, (all the while worrying that they would see me in that too damned low stand of yours) he finally came in and I took him.

Somehow I know you were involved. There are those who might doubt me but I know your hand was in this. I know I shared my finest hunting moment with you as we have shared so many others in the past. Thanks for the big buck Chuck; you are NEVER far away from me.
 
Frank Somma

Feb 8, 2003 Your Bracelet

I purchased a 9-11 rememberance bracelet from a department store over the internet. The name that came on mine belonged to Charles Margiotta. He will forever remain in my heart and in my prayers. I wish all my love to his family and friends. I can't even imagine the pain that you have all gone through.
 
 Jennifer Weigelt

Jan 27, 2003 Chuck goes with me!

Chuck goes everywhere I go, it's become a habit one that comforts me. Yesterday I went walking in the mall and put his button on the bottom of my sweatshirt, that way he could get a clear view. That's what I've reduced myself to these days. In order to survive the loss of him I feel I must keep him close, talk to him, and yes take him with me. He's in dressing rooms with me, he's in the car with me, and in church where lots of singing and praying goes on, but I have noticed, maybe I've decided that he likes to be everywhere, not just the "holy" places. People have asked me, "is that your husband?" "Oh, what's that, are u getting engaged?" The craziest things, I find it amazing that for some 9/11 is far from their everyday world already. Oh to be them, it would be nice to have some distance emotionally. But, for me, that's never to be, I walk the walk where 9/11 is yesterday, it's today, it's now, it's forever. I will never forget, nor do I want to forget. So, Chuck has become my companion. He goes to Clove Lakes with me and I wonder what he did there, how many times he walked those circle of lakes, if he tried to fish for sunnys when he was a kid, or just went there to look at the ducks. Did he wonder if then he would be a firefighter and protect us, or did he imagine himself a woodsman who could live off the land and not need modern man and all his attachments. Whatever Chuck thought back then, for me, for now, he thinks what I think and he wonders what I wonder, because he's in my mind and on my coat, my pocketbook, my sweatshirt, my hat, my whatever. I have to keep him close, I have to talk to him, I have to let him know that as long as I and everyone else who knows him keeps uttering his name and visions he will never be lost to us. So Chuck, hope you are enjoying our journeys, I am glad for your company buddy...I love you, and yeah, I sure do miss you..love~Melissa

Jan 23, 2003 Hi Buddy

Just wanted to drop you a little note Chuck. Spent almost three months in the woods with you and the deer this past season. It was a pretty good year thanks for being there to hear all of my problems and to hunt again with me same spot is open again for next year but we can talk about that during fishing season. I went back to the farm in September and checked out your favorite campsite on the river looks like it got washed out a little. Still covered with snow up here but you already know that. Now that we have the computer back online we will try to stay in touch with Norma and the kids. We have some good news for you another baby for you to watch is due here in early March.
Take care we miss you Les, Mary,Les Jr, Belle and ?
 
 Lester L. Bourke

Jan 20, 2003 Pointed in the right direction

Mike,

Something very strange happened to me about 2 weeks ago. I was going to see a friend of mine who recently moved from Staten Island to Tinton Falls, NJ, my daughter Deanna was following me in her car with a friend. Having never been to my friend Joan's house before, I ended up lost in the back woods of NJ! Looking from left to right and right to left for street signs that I could not read I decided to pull into a local firehouse.

As you know, in NJ firehouses are not manned 24/7. In case of a fire, a loud siren goes out to all the volunteers. I'm now sitting sifting through my pocketbook looking for Joan's phone #, and Deanna pulls up along side me and says "Ma look at that, isn't it beautiful?". What I hadn't seen when I pulled into the firehouse was the replica of the Twin Towers, about 12-15 high with lights shining on it.

We got out of our cars only to take a closer look at something that was really spectacular. As I walked up to the towers, I noticed that it was a memorial to the local people in Tinton Falls who had lost loved ones on 9/11. As soon as I was close enough to focus (didn't have my glasses on, so couldn't really see much at the time), there at the base of the towers the first thing I noticed was Chucky looking directly at me! There was the prayer card and the memorial card from his funeral service! I got the chills then, and now as I retell the story.

There weren't alot of pictures there, maybe 20 or so, but I found it so strange to be "lost" first of all, and then to get out of my car and have Chuck looking right at me! Don't ask my why, but Deanna says "Mom, don't you have a camera? This is gorgeous and we have to show it to Mike." I said, "Deanna, why would I be carrying a camera around with me on a Saturday night when I'm going to visit someone to have a cup of coffee?"

I promised her as I wrote down the name of the fire station that we would come back and take some pictures so we could send them to you. I picked up Chuckie's photo, gave it a little kiss and told him I would tell you about this beautiful tribute. When I got back to the car, I reached into my pocketbook for my cell phone, having found Joan's number scrawled on a little piece of paper. At the bottom of my pocketbook I found a disposable camera! I had forgotten I had it with me since New Year's Eve.

I yelled to Deanna about my find and we got out of the car and took pictures! I'm dropping the camera off today to have the pictures developed. Deanna was insisting that I call you right then and there, but unfortunately I didn't have your phone number stored in my cell phone.

For some reason I was a little upset being lost at night in the "unfamiliar woods" of Tinton Falls, but felt a great sense of comfort and peace when I came upon that firehouse and seeing Chuckie's pictures. As I stood and looked around wondering which way I was to go to Joan's. I only had to look about 50 feet to the corner, and I was at her street. Someone helped me get there. Any clue? I have a vague idea! At that point I didn't need to call her for directions, I had already gotten them from "someone else".

So all in all this was a great night, and a heartwarming experience for me. It was really amazing to see.

Love to all..............Joanne

Joanne Di Bella

Jan 15, 2003 Happy Birthday Dad

Dear Dad,
I just wanted to wish you a Happy Birthday! I said a prayer for you at the Alba House after school today. I just wanted to let you know that i am thinking about you constantly and i miss you soo much. I love you Dad.
Always&Forever,
Norma Jean

Jan 15, 2003 Happy Birthday Charlie

Happy Birthday Charlie,we miss you.
Rest in peace Brother.
 
New Dorp Firehouse

Jan 15, 2003 THINKING OF YOU ON YOUR BIRTHDAY
 
WELL CHUCK AS YOU KNOW, YOU TRAVEL WITH ME EVERY DAY TO WORK AND BACK. I'M SORRY TO SAY YOU ARE DOING TIME WITH ME ON THE ROCK AS YOUR PICTURE SITS ON TOP OF MY COMPUTER. SO YOU ARE ALWAYS PRESENT IN MY EVERYDAY LIVING. SINCE I REALLY DON'T LISTEN TO THE RADIO IN THE CAR, INTENSE CONVERSATIONS THAT WE HAVE MAKE MY TRIP BACK AND FORTH MORE BEARABLE SINCE YOU KNOW I HATE TO DRIVE. CHUCK WRAP THOSE WINGS THAT GOD GAVE YOU AROUND YOUR MOM,FOR SHE NEEDS TO KNOW YOU ARE CLOSE AND NORMA SO SHE MAY HAVE THE STRENGTH TO CONTINUE ON. BY THE WAY CHARLIE HAS TURNED INTO A REAL PROTECTIVE LITTLE MAN AND NORMA JEAN... WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT THE YOUNG LADY? SHE HAS REALLY TURNED OUT GREAT AND BEAUTIFUL YOU WOULD BE SO PROUD OF THEM. (YOU COULDN'T EXPECT MORE FROM THEM FOR THEY HAD, OR MAY WE STILL SAY, HAVE ONE OF THE GREATEST FATHERS ON EARTH). WELL CHUCK, CANDLES WERE LIT AND PRAYERS WERE SAID HOPING THAT FROM WHERE YOU ARE YOU FEEL THE WARMTH IN OUR HEARTS. ALWAYS IN OUR THOUGHTS AND IN OUR HEARTS, ERNESTO, CARMEN, HUSKEY AND RUTH OH I ALMOST FORGOT YOUR NAME SAKE (RESCUE) YOU DIDN'T GET TO MEET HIM BUT HE IS ONE SPECIAL DOG. LOVE, HUGS AND KISSES.
 
YOUR SIS RUTH

Jan 15, 2003 HAPPY BIRTHDAY

DEAR CHUCK: HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I LIKE TO THINK THAT YOU AND PAUL ARE CELEBRATING THIS DAY TOGETHER. (DO THEY HAVE BEER WHERE YOU ARE????) YOU HAVE TO BE PLEASED AT HOW WELL YOUR FAMILY IS DOING. NORMA HAS SHOWN SUCH AMAZING STRENGTH AND COURAGE GETTING THROUGH THE DAYS WITHOUT YOUR PHYSICAL PRESENCE. I SAY "PHYSICAL" BECAUSE I KNOW, WITHOUT A DOUBT, YOUR SPIRITUAL PRESENCE IS ALWAYS WITH HER AND THE CHILDREN. YOUR MOM IS RECOVERING NICELY AND GROWING STRONGER EVERY DAY. YOUR FATHER IS TAKING VERY GOOD CARE OF HER. BETWEEN MIKE, PATTY, NORMA AND THE KIDS, YOUR MOTHER IS GETTING LOTS OF LOVE AND ATTENTION. MIKE DID SOME JOB ON THIS WEB SITE. HE IS QUITE A GUY AND IS DOING A GREAT JOB OF SUPPORTING AND BEING THERE FOR ALL OF YOUR FAMILY. I KEEP YOUR PICTURE BY MY PHONE AND, AS YOU KNOW, AM CONSTANTLY TALKING TO YOU. KEEP WATCH OVER ALL OF US, WE NEED IT.

ALL OUR LOVE
 
AUNT GLENDA & UNCLE PHIL

Jan 13, 2003 Memorial Bracelet
 
I received my bracelet December 21, 2002. From my heart I just want to say that I feel so honored and humbled to have a bracelet with Chuck's name on it. I wear it with pride. He was an outstanding person. The pictures and stories here, this website, make that so very clear. This is a wonderful tribute to his life. When people ask about my bracelet I tell them about a hero. May God bless and keep you all.
Yours in Christ,
Polly Naviaux

Jan 1, 2003 4th of July at the Margiotta's

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to know you as well as others; to me you were always Mike’s big brother. I remember the first time I met you. I was invited to your house for a 4th of July party. I remember getting there and seeing you and your friends think I must be in the wrong place. Although Mike says you were only 5’11”, that day you all looked over 7’. At one point we all jumped into the pool and were having chicken fights. There had to be 20 of us in the pool at one time. All I could think about was; how was this pool going to hold all of us. Once the chicken fights started, all I could think about was not getting my but kicked by all these massive friends of yours. Well the pool stayed up and we all survived (with minor injuries) and everyone had a great time. The beer was flowing and the barbeque was going all day long. Things were great until out of the distance comes this deep scruffy voice yelling “Bottle Rocket Fight”. I turned to Frank and Mike trying to figure out what this was all about and they told me that it was a Margiotta tradition. We all went out into the street loaded with bottle rockets in our hands, your friends on one side and Mike’s friends on the other. How stupid could I have been, I actually thought we were going to shoot them into the air. Well once again, we all survived (with minor injuries) and everyone had a great time.

I walked out of that house that night swearing never to come back.

Well, I came back many times after that and after getting to know you I realize that you are 5”11” but your heart is what stood 7” tall.

May God Bless You and Your Family.

Tom Tortorici