A Final Tribute to Chuck

I can’t believe we have come upon the 24^th anniversary that would forever change lives for so many. Where were you when the world stopped turning? For some they were in a classroom, driving to work, dropping their kids off at school or daycare, sitting in their office, or on a jobsite. So many people were living their lives thinking it would be an ordinary day, but little did they know that America would suffer an unthinkable tragedy. When tragedy strike, heroes emerge, like Lt. Charles “Chuck” Margiotta.

He was a brother, son, father, firefighter, gardener, stuntman, private investigator, substitute teacher, coach, and so much more. He embodied a spirit that can never be forgotten, as he gave his all to each important thing he did. They say they don’t know how he had time for so much, but he never missed anything often wondering when he had time to sleep.

Chuck always knew that he wanted to be a cop or a firefighter and talked of helping people from an early age. While at Brown University he found a way to help the community. He would hold coat and clothes drives for the homeless and personally deliver the items to them.  He helped deliver medical supplies from hospital to hospital during a blizzard because he had the only 4-wheel drive truck around. While Mike and his family were visiting Brown, they learned he had gotten a commendation from the Mayor for that act. Chuck was not someone to boast about his good deeds, he did acts of service without expecting anything in return. He would help a neighbor cross the street, and when it snowed, he often times plowed the whole block so everyone could get out of their house. He was a man of service, even when he wasn’t “on the job.” 

After he left Brown University, he became a foreman for GM. That’s when he decided that his true calling was in public service and helping others and ultimately left his high paying job at GM to join the FDNY.

On the morning of 9/11 he was heading home after his shift.  He heard the call on the radio and decided that he needed to go back and help.  While it ultimately cost him his life, there was nothing he would rather do than to serve people in need. There is no telling how many lives he saved that day, but we are all forever grateful for his service to the people of New York.

I asked Mike what his favorite memory of Chuck is and he responded he doesn’t have just one, but something came to mind “Chuck was crazy in the best of ways. He fought for the underdog, and he never looked for a fight, but never walked away either. He had a certain way he laughed without sound, holding one hand on his chest.  He also had a great sense of humor and found The Far Side comic funny.”

Chuck had a great sense of humor but couldn’t have pasta without his “grating cheese.” While they were out for a run, a cook stayed behind at the firehouse to make spaghetti. The crew soon returned and they all sat down to eat, but there was no “grating cheese.” Chuck made them all pile into the engine and head to the Italian Specialty Deli to get some cheese. After all, no pasta dish is complete without some “grating cheese!”  

He was a lover of animals and would try to save as many as he could. He once gave mouth to mouth to a little critter using a straw, and it worked! If he was able to rescue something and release it back to the wild, he would hold a ceremony to mark its release. Everyone would gather in the front yard to mark this momentous occasion of a wild animal being set free.

When Chuck and Mike were growing up their father would host a big Fourth of July party complete with loads of people, BBQ, games, and a swim in their pool. One year, when Chuck was about 15 years old, he decided that he would jump off the roof and into the pool. Against his mother’s wishes and saying “we know someone who was paralyzed from doing that” he continued doing it every year until July 4, 2001. Mike said that even though they know people now, who have been paralyzed from diving into an above ground pool, they didn’t at the time this all started.

Chuck always had time for friends and family. Often coaching his kids in whatever sport they were involved in. From coaching to Sunday night dinners with family, he always made time for those he loved. He was also an avid gardener and had a huge garden with vegetables in his backyard and at the firehouse. The firehouse garden was described as “Jurassic Park” like because it was wild and out of control, but it was loved and cared for by Chuck. He would use his harvest at the firehouse, or home, for meals, and gave some of the veggies away. He truly was a man who loved his community and those around him.

Mike and Chuck in May 2001

I asked Mike “If Chuck could give one piece of advice to this generation, what would he say?” He responded “value every minute you have with family and friends.” 

Chuck, thank you for giving your life to save others. I know you wouldn’t want to be called a hero, but your actions that day were heroic. You saved many lives, and while they may not know who you are, I hope they remember your actions. 

Mike now works hard to keep his brothers memory alive. Chucks wife, Norma, still lives in the same house and is close to their kids. Their daughter, Norma Jean is a school teacher and reads names on Staten Island for 9/11.  Their son, Charlie, is a lawyer.  They all miss Chuck, so incredibly much. 

Remember friends, it’s ok to be involved or passionate about something, but never forget your loved ones, make time for them, even if you’re busy. Let them know how much you love them, and when you think about 9/11, I hope you remember Chuck.

Mike has set up a scholarship fund in memory of Chuck, and is always appreciative for donations.

He has also set up a website where you can read stories about Chuck and see more photos.

 

*All pictures have been used with permission.