25 Years: Molloy Remembers September 11, 2001

On September 11, 2001, school was in session at Molloy for just the second full day of the new year. It was a beautiful Tuesday morning, and students were still settling into their new classes. A short time into the day, Principal Br. Roy George '62 made a public address announcement that changed many lives forever. The community would later learn that Stanners, family members, and friends were among the 2,977 victims of the horrific and senseless events of that day.

25 years after the events of September 11th, it has become more important than ever to remember the tragedy through the spirit of the heroic acts of many first responders and ordinary citizens. Many students witnessed and experienced that day in their own unique ways, but generations since have learned about it as a historical event. In commemorating September 11th each year, we can ensure that present and future generations understand the impact of these events, as well as join in honoring and continuing the legacies of so many selfless heroes.

On this 25th anniversary, Principal Dr. Darius Penikas addressed our students by reading the names of those in our Stanner family who were lost on September 11, 2001: Richard D. Allen ’88, FDNY; Thomas J. Ashton ’97; Joseph J. Berry ’64; Michael J. Cawley ’87, FDNY; Batt. Chief Thomas DeAngelis ’68, FDNY; William A. Gardner ’73; FDNY; Ralph M. Licciardi ’89; Lt. Robert B. Nagel ’63, FDNY; Lt. Robert M. Regan ’71, FDNY; Mark Rosen, Parent; Robert L. Scandole ’83; Capt. Patrick J. Waters ’74, Parent, FDNY; Timothy M. Welty ’85, FDNY.

Dr. Penikas also read the names of first responders who have passed in later years as a result of 9/11 related illness: Laurence J. Dougherty ’82, NYPD; Lt. John “Jack” Gremse ’68, Kevin Lavelle, Parent, NYPD; Thomas Oelkers ’92, FDNY

At Molloy, we continue to remember and honor the heroes of 9/11. Their legacy lives on, as many reside in our Stanner Hall of Fame, while numerous scholarships provide the gift of Catholic Marist education to outstanding students in need. These include The Joseph J. Berry Memorial Scholarship, The Firefighter Michael J. Cawley Memorial Scholarship, The Lt. John "Jack" Gremse Graduation Assistance Fund, The Lt. Robert Nagel Memorial Scholarship, The Firefighter Tommy Oelkers Scholarship, the Robert Regan Memorial Scholarship, The Robert Scandole Memorial Scholarship, and The Captain Patrick Waters Memorial Scholarship.

Recently, a Stanner alumnus shared with Molloy that there was another member of our community who was lost on September 11, 2001 and whose story we have not previously shared. Sean Canavan attended Molloy from 1976 to 1978, but transferred to Long Island City High School after sophomore year. The eldest of five children, Sean attended St. Raphael's Elementary School in Long Island City before Molloy and LIC HS. He went on to work as a carpenter, working for Installation Resources along with his younger brother Ciaran. On September 11th, Sean was refurbishing offices on the 91st floor of the South Tower when it was struck. While Ciaran was able to evacuate, Sean sadly lost his life that day. He left behind his parents, Rose and Ciaran, and his siblings Ciaran, Kathleen, Teresa, and Celine. He was buried on September 9, 2002 on what would have been his 40th birthday. Today, we remember Sean as a beloved member of our community.

Below, you will find the stories of our Stanner Hall of Famers.

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Richard D. Allen ‘88

From his youth, Richard D. Allen displayed an unwavering concern for others as well as considerable athletic talent. His first jobs as a public school teacher and as a lifeguard in Rockaway gave full expression to these gifts. Richie’s students and coworkers loved and respected him. His warm smile and infectious laugh brightened their days and touched their lives. Everyone liked to be around “Mr. Allen”. In addition to his work, Richie drew pleasure from being outdoors and finding outlets for his creativity.

Richie’s strength, courage and compassion led him to join the New York City Fire Department. After all, helping people was second nature to Richie. He was still in training as a probationary firefighter when the alarm sounded on September 11^th, 2001. Like so many firefighters that day, Richie’s only concern was to rescue those in distress. That morning he gave his life so that others might live.

Richie received a posthumous commission as a New York City firefighter and citations from Governor George Pataki and Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. Richie’s courageous spirit, generosity and selfless dedication to the service of others continue to empower his family and friends.

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Thomas J. Ashton ‘97

Thomas (Tommy) Ashton was a life-long resident of Woodside, New York and a proud American. He was born on December 6, 1979 and was 21 years old at the time of his death. Tommy is the third of four children born to John and Kathleen Ashton. Tommy's siblings are his sisters, Colleen and Mary, and his brother, John, who pre-deceased Tommy. Tommy grew up in the Big Six Towers, attended grammar school at St. Sebastian Church where he served as an altar boy. As a youngster, Tommy enjoyed participating in sports, namely basketball, baseball, and swimming. He strived to be the next Michael Jordan as basketball was quickly his favorite sport. However, Tommy, the sports fan, truly loved rooting for the Mets, his favorite sports team. As he grew up, Tommy's main sport became swimming. He excelled as both a competitive swimmer and as a team leader. Tommy was captain of the varsity swim team at Archbishop Molloy High School and the Flushing YMCA Flyers' Swim Team where he competed on the local state and national levels. Tommy was a unique and special person with a keen and insightful mind. As a peer group leader in high school, Tommy helped fellow students deal with life issues. Tommy also thoughtfully evaluated national and world events and he loved to debate his point of view.

Tommy loved God, his family, his friends, and the many special people in his life. He attended St. Francis College in Brooklyn and majored in political science for three years before leaving to accept a position as an electrician's apprentice with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW Local 3) in July of 2001. He began attending Empire State College on September 10, 2001 toward the completion of his bachelor's degree. September 11, 2001 was Tommy's second day at his new work location in the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Throughout his young life, Tommy exemplified character and integrity. Deeply introspective, he understood the power of kindness and compassion. His smile lit up rooms and warmed the hearts of all who knew him.

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Joseph J. Berry ‘64 

Adversity is a test of character: some retreat from the challenges it poses, but Joseph J. Berry used it as motivation to succeed in life. Joe was a very young boy when he lost his father, but despite his own grief, Joe always put others first. He treated his family exceptionally well during Christmas, with presents purchased with the few dollars he earned doing odd jobs in the neighborhood. He was driven to make a difference in the lives of others amidst the toughest of times.

Upon graduating from Archbishop Molloy High School, Joe worked to pay his tuition while attending CUNY Queens College. He went on to attend business school at St. John s University while teaching math at Christ the King High School. After earning his MBA, Joe set his sights on Wall Street – literally papering the streets of lower Manhattan with resumes. Finally a firm took notice of Joe’s job campaign and decided to take a chance on the high school math teacher from Queens. Joe began working as a junior equity sales representative at Keefe, Bruyette and Woods as one of two junior sales person in its institutional equity sales group. Over the next thirty years, Joe’s persistence and skill led to numerous promotions, ultimately leading to accepting the job as Chairman and Co CEO of the firm. In 2000 and 2001, Irish America magazine honored Joe as one of the top fifty most successful Irishmen on Wall Street.

Joe’s astounding financial career, a “rags to riches” story in a way, was complimented by his unwavering positive attitude and generosity – characteristics that first came through in his youth. He maintained a concern for others despite the highly competitive culture of Wall Street. Joe’s family was always his first focus, followed closely by a wide circle of good friends. Helping others, even strangers, truly pleased Joe, and it remains another part of his amazing legacy.

Joe was a man that gave everything and asked for little in return. Joe ended every conversation with his wife and children with “I love you” and usually included his favorite phrase, “Life is good” in conversations with friends. Joe’s life was taken on September 11^th, 2001 as he began the day working in his office located in the World Trade Center. Despite his tragic death, his loving spirit lives on in his family and friends, and in the lives of all who were privileged to know him.

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Michael J. Cawley '87

Michael Joseph Cawley was born on April 6th, 1969 in Jackson Heights, Queens, to parents John and Margaret Cawley. When he was three years old, Michael’s family moved to Flushing, Queens and that is where he lived for 23 years with his parents, younger sister Kristin and younger brother Brendan.

From the fall of 1975 until the spring of 1983, Michael attended elementary school one block from his Flushing home at St. Mary’s Nativity School. During Michael’s youth he served as an altar boy at St. Mary’s and was involved in a number of community sports programs including soccer, baseball and basketball.

In the fall of 1983, influenced by his cousins Brian Mulqueen (Class of ‘81) and Thomas Cawley (Class of ’86), Michael followed a family tradition of studying at Archbishop Molloy High School in Briarwood, Queens.

From day one, Michael worked to capitalize on all the opportunities that Molloy had to offer. Michael was a member of the Student Activity Committee, the Religious Activities Office and the Irish Club during all of his four years at Molloy. He was a member of the track team during his freshman and sophomore years, winning numerous medals and helping his team win the city championships both of those years. He also participated in the intramural sports program that Molloy offered. While working with Brother Leo, Michael was a peer counselor to younger students in the SMILE Program.

During Michael’s four years at Molloy he was very active in the many retreat programs offered through the school at the Esopus retreat grounds in upstate New York. Michael was a counselor on weekend retreats for younger students and during the summer he worked with specially disabled children and adults. Admirably, Michael was invited to make his Senior Encounter during his junior year. During his senior year, he became a program leader. In the spring of 1987, Michael graduated from Archbishop Molloy and was awarded the Marcellin Champagnat Award for his service.

During Michael’s four years at Molloy he was able to learn and mature more than he could ever have expected. However, the most significant thing he was able to take with him from his experience at Molloy was the greatest collection of friendships he could have ever wished for.

Michael studied and earned a degree in Political Science at the State University of New York at Oswego from 1987 to 1991. While attending college in Oswego, Michael continued his path of active involvement by joining numerous student and community organizations.

Michael’s desire to become a part of the F.D.N.Y. began when he was just a young boy. Michael’s father was an officer in the Knights of Columbus Hudson Council in Woodside, Queens, located just blocks from the firehouses of Ladder Company 163, Engine Company 292 and Rescue Company 4. Michael’s father would often bring him to visit these firehouses. The firefighters always enjoyed these visits from Michael and Michael always enjoyed leaning about firefighting and playing on the trucks. The memory of those firehouse visits stayed with him throughout his formative years and on July 1st 1995, Michael brought his lifelong dream to reality when he entered into New York City Fire Department Fire Academy.

In October of 1995, building on the values he had learned in his family home and at Archbishop Molloy High School, Michael Cawley joined the ranks of New York’s Bravest when he became a New York City Firefighter.

After his graduation from the fire academy, Michael was assigned to Ladder Company 136 in Elmhurst, Queens. From day one Michael made it his objective to get to know and learn from as many of his fellow firefighters and officers as possible, much the way he had gone about befriending any and everyone he could during his time at Archbishop Molloy and at SUNY Oswego. During his second and third years with the department, Michael rotated to Engine Company 35 in Harlem and Engine Company 286 in Glendale before returning to Ladder 136.

One of Michael’s proudest days as a firefighter was on April 4th, 2001. He and his company responded to an accident where a man working for the electric company was electrocuted by the power lines he was repairing. Using his quick instincts and life-saving training, Michael put his life on the line to save another. He was hoisted up to where the man dangled unconscious from the power lines. Once in place, he was able to cut the man free and carry him down to safety. The man lived due to Michael’s heroics.

After Michael’s passing, his family was presented with the medal he had been nominated for as a commendation for his valor in saving the electrocuted worker’s life that previous April.

On September 11th, 2001, Michael’s life, like that of so many of his brother firefighters, was tragically cut short when he responded with Rescue Company 4 to the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center. The previous night, Michael had been covering a shift for a fellow firefighter at Engine Company 292. He had been relieved of duty early on the morning of the 11th. When the report of the disaster at the World Trade Center came in, Michael jumped aboard the truck and rode into Manhattan with Rescue 4, determined to help save lives. Ironically, Michael spent his last day as a firefighter working with the same fire trucks he used to play on as a boy.

Michael Joseph Cawley lived and died with a passion to help people. He lived each day learning and growing and would bring his growth and new knowledge with him into each succeeding day. A friend once summed up Michael by saying, "to him, it wasn’t the years in his life but the life in his years."

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Thomas P. DeAngelis ‘68 

Thomas P. DeAngelis attended Holy Name of Mary School in Valley Stream before becoming a Stanner at Archbishop Molloy High School. At Molloy Tom learned from the Marist Brothers to put the needs of others before his own. In this way Tom later found his special calling as a firefighter, something he often described as “the best and most rewarding profession.” After many years of service, Tom was named Chief of the Eighth Battalion of the New York City fire department in 1996. Tom would continue his work with the FDNY for many more years. On September 11^th, 2001 Tom responded to the call of duty at the World Trade Center with selfless concern for others.

Tom was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His belief that love could overcome every difficulty was manifest in the time and care he lavished on his family. There was not a day that Tom did not show his appreciation for the people close to him. He met life’s challenges bravely, confidently and honestly. Whatever the outcome, he embraced life with a smile, all the while believing that certain things were simply meant to be. In his spare time, Tom maintained his health by exercising enthusiastically, refusing to succumb to the effects of age. An avid reader, Tom wrote short stories and aspired to become a published author. Outside the home, sailing brought peace and tranquility to his life. Tom dreamed of owning a sail boat and traveling uninhibited for weeks on the open water.

All who knew Tom were privileged to be touched by his kindness, respect and love. He is deeply missed by his family and friends, and his memory continues to live on through them, and at Archbishop Molloy High School.

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William A. Gardner ‘73

William A. Gardner was a talented student while attending Archbishop Molloy High School. A member of the class of 1973, William placed on the Dean’s List near the top of his class academically while also being serving as a member of the National Honor Society. He was involved in many aspects of student life including intramural sports, the poster club, the Student Activity Committee (SAC) and the art club. William retained a lifelong affection for his alma mater and avidly followed the successes of its athletics program in the years following his graduation.

William was always a strong student in mathematics, and he put his skills to good use in the professional world. At the investment firm of Cantor Fitzgerald, William served as Senior Systems Analyst and as project manager for the company’s innovative E-Speed program. William and his good friend Ivan Bielek developed a system which allowed worldwide stock trading with values instantaneously converted to dollars.

At home William was a family man who loved spending time with his beloved wife Elizabeth and his sons Gregory and Andrew whenever he could. On September 11^th, 2001, William caught the 7:20 a.m. train from Lynbrook, Long Island. He kissed his family goodbye as he did every morning, and at 8:43 he called from the 103rd floor of the World Trade Center to say he had arrived and was thinking of them, another lifelong habit.

William is remembered by his family as the best son, brother, husband and father. Although he is greatly missed, his spirit of love remains a powerful source of comfort for his family and friends.

William’s friend Ivan had been laid off from work on September 10^th, 2001, and fortunately was not present for the inevitable terrorist attacks. Years later Ivan, his wife and his six children have remained a source of strength for the Gardner family.

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John "Jack" Gremse '68

John Gremse, known by most as Jack, joined the ranks of the FDNY in 1978. He served in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where he worked his way up to a spot at Ladder 126 in South Jamaica. Throughout his tenure with the FDNY, Jack earned numerous citations for bravery and heroism. He was never boastful about these honors and was known to simply say, “I was just doing my job.”

After 20 years with the FDNY, Jack took the lieutenant’s test. While those results were pending, Jack joined many fellow firefighters and other city agencies in response to the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001. His promotion to Lieutenant took place just five days later during a time of mourning across the city. Lt. Gremse vowed to serve as lieutenant with dignity out of respect for those who lost their lives on September 11th.

Lt. Gremse went on to serve with Engine 302, Ladder 155 in Jamaica until 2008, when he was forced into early retirement due to 9/11 related illness. Sadly, Lt. Gremse lost his battle on September 16, 2014.

Lt. Gremse’s memory is honored with a plaque at Engine 302, as well as on the Memorial Wall at FDNY Headquarters in Brooklyn. Members of Molloy's Class of 1968 led an effort to rename the Freshman Boys 55M Dash at Stanner Games in his honor. His classmates remain in touch with his wife, Kathy, and visit her at the Gremse family home every summer to reminisce and honor Jack's memory.

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Robert B. Nagel ‘63

After graduating from Archbishop Molloy High School, Robert B. Nagel attended St. John’s University where he graduated in 1967. Not long after earning his degree, Bob would go on to serve in Vietnam with the 59^th Scout Dog Platoon. Bob returned home in 1970 and joined the New York City Fire Department on November 24, 1973. Many years later Bob would give his life trying to save others at the World Trade Center on September 11^th, 2001.

Bob was a loving husband to his wife, Janet, and father to his daughter, Bridget. Bob wanted only the best for his family, including the family dog Dixie who he adopted from North Shore Animal League for Bridget – although it was clear that Dixie had the ultimate soft spot for Bob. The saying, “A dog picks you, you don’t pick it,” was undeniably true when it came to Bob and Dixie.

Summers were spent with his family on the Jersey Shore. His favorite activity was tending to his vegetable garden where he grew the best Jersey tomatoes and string beans. He enjoyed being in the back yard where he maintained the best lawn in the neighborhood. He also loved spending days at the ocean; swimming and surf fishing.  Two of his favorite sports including kayaking in the summer and skiing in Vermont during the winter.

Like most firefighters, Bob was an outstanding cook. He could prepare a delicious meal for 1 or for 100 with the same ease. He had recipes that will never be duplicated. Bob was also an avid reader, particularly of history and science fiction books.

Bob spoke often of his days at Molloy, and his fondest memories were of the Marist Brothers. Bob deeply appreciated the outstanding education he received at Molloy and took that with him throughout his life.

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Thomas G. Oelkers

Thomas G. Oelkers was born August 28, 1974. He attended St. Stanislaus Kostka School for his elementary education where he was an altar server, a Boy Scout and loved playing baseball. Tom went on to attend Archbishop Molloy High School.

After graduating Archbishop Molloy in 1992, Tom attended St. John’s University. Tom was a member of Pi Lambda Phi Fraternity and held positions on their chapter executive board as KOE and Pledge Master. It was at St. John’s University that Tom met the love of his life, Erika Ryan. They were engaged in 1998 and married on October 8, 2000. After graduating from St. John’s University in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Tom became a member of the New York City Police Department. Tom started his career in Crown Heights, Brooklyn but spent the majority of his career in Midtown North Precinct. Tom responded to the 9/11 rescue and recovery efforts and spent several weeks on the pile before joining the New York City Fire Department in October 2001.

Initially assigned to Ladder 152 in Queens, Tom transferred to Engine 92-Ladder 44 in the South Bronx, NY where he spent his career. At the firehouse, Tom was the resident chef where his pulled pork and Thai chili shrimp recipes were a firehouse favorite. Tom also ran German Night and the Annual Dinner Dance for the firehouse. Tom enjoyed playing on the firehouse softball team and was an offensive lineman on the FDNY Bravest Football team. He played on the team when they won the Championship.

Tom loved the NY Giants and the NY Yankees and enjoyed going to games. Tom loved to cook at home, go to concerts, and take vacations with his family.

While Tom loved the FDNY, his pride and joy are his three daughters; Camryn, Juliet, and Scarlett. He loved getting them on and off the bus for school, going on their field trips, and attending career day at school. Tom would spend his weekends on the soccer field and going on bike rides with the girls. He enjoyed taking them to the beach and pool during the summer.

Tom was diagnosed with 9/11 related cancer in August 2020, he passed away 9 months later at the age of 46.

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Robert M. Regan ‘71

Robert M. Regan could be described as the epitome of a local. Robert grew up right here in Briarwood where he attended Our Lady of the Cenacle and later Archbishop Molloy High School. Later his academic career would take him to Manhattan College where in 1975 he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. Robert took his degree into the professional world where he started working in engineering, however he knew he was not satisfied with this line of work. Instead Robert decided to apply for and join the New York City Fire Department. He was appointed on December 9^th, 1985 and assigned to Engine 26. Robert’s hard work and determination came through in his new career path, and he was promoted to Lieutenant in 1996. Robert would find a home in Brooklyn Heights at Engine 205, Ladder 118. On September 11^th, 2001 he responded to the emergency at the World Trade Center. His selflessness was on full display that day as he gave his life in an attempt to save the lives of others.

Robert was married to his wife Donna for 21 years. The other two joys of his life were his children, Caitlin and Brendan. Robert was a die-hard fan of the Yankees and Giants. He enjoyed playing softball with friends all across New York City. His love of the game was later honored by a Memorial Softball League that operates in Queens. He was a devoted coach and board member of the Floral Park Little League. An annual Softball Tournament continues to be played by the league in his honor. Robert continues to be sorely missed by his family, friends and fellow firefighters.

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Robert L. Scandole ‘83

The generosity and compassion that defined Robert L. Scandole’s life was very much on display as a student at Archbishop Molloy High School. Robert attended sign language classes after school and used his talents and versatility to help others as a volunteer at summer camp programs for handicapped children. It was clear early on that Robert embodied many of the Marist Brothers’ teachings including putting the needs of others ahead of his own. At home, no one could stay hungry or thirsty, hot, cold or alone if Robert was within earshot. He noticed the needs of others at every turn and invited everyone into his circle of friends. He was truly a warm, open, “real” person without pretense.

As he grew into an adult (taking his already developed sense of responsibility with him), Robert’s generosity and attention to the needs of others especially impacted his family. He worked hard  for his family and loved playing with all of his daughters. Despite the demands of his professional life, Robert knew his priorities and always made time for his wife and the girls, whom he adored.

As Vice President of Cantor Fitzgerald, Robert had a well-earned reputation for integrity and honesty. Both his clients and his employees knew Robert as a caring and extremely competent man who made everyone around him comfortable. He was able to bring out the best in everyone he had the opportunity to work with.

Though Robert’s life was cut short by the tragedy of September 11^th, 2001, he left an indelible mark on his family, friends and business associates as a young man who had attained the wisdom to know what is truly important. Robert will always be missed him, and the special gift he gave to his friends and family will never be forgotten.

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Patrick J. Waters ‘74 

Patrick J. Waters graduated from Archbishop Molloy High School in 1974. He went on to study accounting at SUNY Brockport where he earned his degree in 1978. He was an enthusiastic rugby player at Brockport, a hobby that he would continue to make time for after college as a member of the Rockaway Ruggers. In the professional world, Pat worked as an internal auditor for a major insurance company for five years before pursuing his dream of joining the New York City Fire Department in 1983.

Pat married Janice Sakowski in 1982, and Billy Szendrey, his best friend from Molloy, served as his very special “Stanner best man.” Pat and Janice’s son Christopher went on to attend Molloy, graduating in 2005. Pat and Janice’s younger son Daniel attended Sacred Heart School.

Pat gave generously to Sacred Heart parish, serving as the PTA President and Fundraising Director. He coached roller hockey, basketball, and baseball. His concern for others was also manifested in the fire department, where he taught courses to help younger firefighters win promotions and climb the ranks.

Pat served the people of New York as a firefighter in Engine 217, Ladder 108. He was promoted to Lieutenant in Ladder 106 where he and his company carried out a heroic water rescue at the India Street piers in Greenpoint. Pat was a member of the elite Special Operations Command as a Captain in rescue and marine companies. Pat was also the Captain in command of HazMat1, a highly specialized group trained to identify, neutralize and remove hazardous and biochemical materials. In this capacity, Pat gave his life to rescue the thousands who were in the World Trade Center on September 11^th 2001.

Pat was a loving husband, outstanding father, dedicated coach, skilled firefighter and a great friend.

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Timothy M. Welty ‘85

Timothy M. Welty graduated with the class of 1985 at Archbishop Molloy High School. After graduation, Tim began working in construction as he planned out his next career moves. He eventually decided to attend Pace University, but after only a year transferred to Queens Community College where he majored in pre-engineering. After receiving his degree, Tim moved on to New York Technical College to continue his studies in engineering while also working for Underwriters Laboratories. Tim joined the New York City Fire Department in 1994 and married his fiancé, Delia, the following year.

Tim and Delia settled down in Yonkers with their two young children, Jake and Julia. Tim started his own construction company and had gutted and renovated the home where he grew up in Flushing. In his spare time he played hockey for the Fire Department, skied on the Fire Department Ski team and helped the United States win a bronze medal in volleyball at the Fire Department World Games in 2000. Tim also enjoyed mountain climbing, parachuting and riding motorcycles. His athletic abilities and his concern for others helped him tremendously as a member of the FDNY. Tim’s children were just 4 years old and one month old when he responded to the emergency at the World Trade Center on September 11^th, 2001.

Tim is remembered for his unlimited devotion to his family. He maintained close relationships with his sister Melinda and brothers, Chris and Darren. All of them will tell you that Tim’s smile was contagious. He is deeply missed by all who knew him.