Gerard Schrang Obituary

Thinking about my old childhood friend from Holbrook this week. We'd hang out at the Holbrook FD; we were Jr. FD guys together, played in the FD marching band (Holbrook Wranglers), and generally played under the streetlights on Church Street and local ball field together, playing whatever game was in season. We grew up a few houses apart. God bless you & yours. I think about you every 9/II.

He was a great friend and better family man.

I met Gerard at Databit a computer manufacturer in Hauppauge LI. He had a red camaro then and I sold his brother my 71 Ford Torino. Gerard was selected to NYFD Academy. He was a great guy and Father. We lost contact over the years. I moved to California and joined the Los Angeles Police Department. My parents still lived on Long Island and I would see them at least twice a year. On the fateful day 9/11 I was awaken by my family and observed the tragedy. I Prayed that Gerard would make it out un scalthed. Knowing Gerard he would do what any hero would do and gave his life for others. God bless you Denise and your family. I'm sorry for your loss, He will always be my hero. DOMINICK FUENTES LAPD CLASS 1088.

A really great guy and Brother Fireman. I miss you Jerry.

Mrs. schrang , I sent a message in 2011 recalling sitting with you on your first night out in ac. Just want you to know we haven't forgotten. We never will . God bless you and your family.

I just made sausage and peppers for my kids and told them how this was the meal he use to make at L33 back when we were fireman together. Still miss you and think about you. Getting closer to catching up with you each day
Gerry Tucker

I wrote sometime back. My feelings and high regard for your hero remain as strong as ever.

The other day I did a stair climb memorial and wore Mr. Schrang's badge with his picture up and down 110 stories.....I can not begin to imagine what life has been like for his children and wife.....I hope some comfort comes to them in knowing as far away as Misawa Japan, on a military base, an Air Force wife wore his badge proudly......Thank you Mr. Schrang for all your bravery

Yesterday I had the honor of representing Gerard, at the Charlotte 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Today I decided that I was going to research and learn about him since I had carried him up to the top. I know that it can not bring him back but it can help to keep his memory alive. I did not get to personally meet him but from what I have been able to find he was a great firefighter and also a great family man. I thank you and your family for your service. I will always remember him and his sacrifice.

I had the pleasure of representing Firefighter Schrang today at the 9/11 memorial stair climb in Oklahoma City, Ok. 110 floors can never replace what he did on that day. Thank you for your service. We will Never Forget. Stillwater Fire Department Okla

Thank you for lending me your strength and courage today.

Growing up in Holbrook my mother was good friends with Denise through my older brother Michael and Jackie being friends through school. I remember going over to their home on numerous occasions and always having a blast with Gerry and Denise! I served Gerry's mass and he is always in my thoughts and prayers especially today as well as Denise, Jackie and Brian. What a wonderful man and such a tragedy!

Denise and family,
My name is Jeremy Frasca. I am a fireman for the City of Escondido in the county of San Diego California. Recently, I had the honor of participating in a 9/11 memorial stair climb held in downtown San Diego. Upon registration that morning, I was issued a lamintated picture with the name of the fireman that we lost that day and what unit he was assigned to. That Fireman was your husband Gerard P. Schrang. Myself and a handful of guys I worked with put on all of our gear and Scott packs (along with hundreds of other firefighters and civilans, and proudly climbed 110 floors. The following day I took it upon myself to do a little research about the man I dedicated my climb to. He sounded like a great guy, the life of the firehouse and some one you knew that you could depend on. He seemed to be a family man and carried his pride with him on and off the job. Though I have never met this man, it is the written words and your video that makes me feel that I too have lost a friend and a brother. For the information I have found on Gerard, I am grateful. Thanks for sharing him with us.

Jeremy Frasca

I was honored to carry your husband's memorial in the stair climb last year and have carried it in my bunkers at the station and on calls every since. Today we erected a flag pole to honor him as well as the other 342 firefighters that lost their lives. His name is etched into the concrete at the base of the pole on my farm. I am a Spokane Valley Fireman who is praying for your family and I am so sorry for your loss. Patterson 348

God bless Gerry in heaven. I hear such wonderful stories from my husband about his friend. He is surly missed.

i cant believe its gonna be 10 years. alot of things have changed, as you know, we lost alot of friends and loved ones, we also gained alot...ive got 4 grandchildren and you have a beautiful grandson...you must be so proud..Jackie has turned out to be a wonderful beautiful person, and im sure your as proud of her as we are..Juice, your just as missed today as you were 10 years ago, thank God time dosnt erase all the wonderful memories,,may you rest in peace, send my love to Jim. Til were all together agin all my love, KATHIE

I did not know Gerard Schrang; but I wanted to thank you and your family for your sacrifice and I pray for your family to have peace. Each year on that dreaded day I wear a shirt saying "Never Forgive 9-11-01 Never Forget" on the front and "Don't forget to pray today" on the back...it is heartfelt ... God Bless You

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Mrs. Schrang,
I was very much taken this morning reading Newsday's piece on your devoted and courageous husband. I write because I had your daughter in one of my English classes at Suffolk Community College. As I remember, she had an ebullient personality as well as being an excellent student. I felt especially proud and honored to receive from her at the end of the class one of the memorial shirts designed to honor your husband's memory. I wear it frequently to the gym where I'm frequently questioned whether or not I'm "on the job?" Many, many thoughts are provoked by this question, I'm honored to say. Please say hello for me to your daughter. With special regards.
Sincerely,
Norris Marshak

Mrs. Schrang
My husband and I sat with you at a table at the comedy club in Atlantic city on your "first night out" We hope you have found many reasons to smile and laugh since then. We also hope you are comforted in knowing that 9+ years later people think of you and we haven't forgotten.

merry christmas gerard a true american hero we are so proud of you we miss you

Gerry, thinking of you and your family on this day.
God bless all.

Peace be with your family. I know they think of you daily and miss you. Today I am thinking of all of the heroes that lost their lives on 9-11. You will never be forgotten.

To the family and friends of Gerard...I am a firefighter in Evergreen, Colorado, a small town outside of Denver. About 5 years ago, the firefighting community of Denver started a memorial for those who gave all on 9/11. We climb a 110 flights of stairs (a 55 story building twice in downtown Denver) in full gear. As we enter the stairwell to begin the climb, we are all given a picture of a fallen hero. This year I had the honor to climb for Gerard. I can't describe the emotions I feel for his family and friends...and especially for Gerard. He is the ultimate hero and represents everything we took the oath for.

Here is a link to see a few photos. http://photos.denverpost.com/photogalleries/coloradoimages/#num=1303617&id=album-66133

To the family and friends of Gerard...I am a firefighter in Evergreen, Colorado, a small town outside of Denver. About 5 years ago, the firefighting community of Denver started a memorial for those who gave all on 9/11. We climb a 110 flights of stairs (a 55 story building twice in downtown Denver) in full gear. As we enter the stairwell to begin the climb, we are all given a picture of a fallen hero. This year I had the honor to climb for Gerard. I can't describe the emotions I feel for his family and friends...and especially for Gerard. He is the ultimate hero and represents everything we took the oath for.

Here is a link to see a few photos. http://photos.denverpost.com/photogalleries/coloradoimages/#num=1303617&id=album-66133

Gerry,
I still miss you,think about you and Denise, Jackie and Brian.The camping trips and working long tours at the animal house.It's Memorial Day 2009 and I was thinking of you. See you in heaven.
Gerry Tucker

Happy Birthday!!!

merry christmas gerard .wo love you and miss you. mom says, i love you and miss you so very much - my hero. how lucky i was to have you.

I will always remember my former student at Sachem. God Bless You, Gerry. You are a true hero to me.

Happy Birthday!!!

Thinkng and praying for you and your family today...God Bless

As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.

In memory....

When I first walked into engine 75 &ladder33 Jerry was on the watch.For the next 11 years we went to fires together,took our kids camping, studied for promotions, played softball and much more. I am proud to have worked with him and think of him often. We miss you Jerry.

Gone but only from are eye/s and ear/s. never from are heart/s.May God be with you and your/s

I received my bracelet today with Gerry's name and station on it. Having been a volunteer fire fighter for nine years, I understand the gravity of the decision to place yourself in harm's way for a stranger. I tried not to think that way and "just did the job" like most everyone else in the service. That was forever changed on January 2nd, 1993 when two of my comrades and friends in a department of 30 were lost in the line of duty.

I'll never forget the words of one of the widows a few months following her loss. She said, "At first there was lots of support but after a few weeks, everyone just stopped coming by. I guess it makes them uncomfortable."

Mrs. Schrang: You and yours remain in my thoughts and prayers. I won't forget the loss you will continue to bear nor the spirit of the man who sacrificed so much for others.

Thank You!

Jackie,

I am Brandi, Brian Bacon's oldest daughter, I only met you and Jerry one time but I am very proud of you and him! With all my love and support...

I received a memorial 9/11 bracelet from my friend when she went to nyc and since she gave it to me i wear it every day with pride to show the great courage and bravery you husband and father did for this country and i thank him for that dearly =D

Dear Jackie,



Our sincere thoughts are with you and your family. We enjoyed the annual camping trips to Little Pond! Those memories will never be forgotten. We've thought about you ever since. As you know, your dad was so wonderful to everyone he met-- including us.



-Melissa, Krista, & Erin Tucker

Jackie-

We love you so much!!!!!!!!!

**********GOD BLESS YOU**********

To Jackie and her family-

I never realized how much we take for granted about what firefighters really do, how each and every day they are putting their lives' on the line for people like me. If it weren't for men like your father, there would be so many more awful tragedies. Your father is a true hero, giving himself so unselfishly, along with all other members of the FDNY. Jackie, you are such a wonderful and caring person, I know your father would be so proud. My thoughts are always with you and your family. God bless. Love always.

I would just like to thank everyone for your out pouring of support. It helps us through the worst of days. To all still fighting the battle, you are all "HEROS" forever in my heart. To FDNY, Thank You and I couldn't have asked for a better extended family, especially for all my co-dads in RESCUE 3----I Love You All. Be Safe and Be Well, and God Bless America! I Miss you Daddy, I'm forever your Olive Oyl!

Again, I want to tell everyone what a remarkable young woman Mr. & Mrs. Schrang raised. You should be very proud of yourselves.

God Bless you Gerry, We all miss you very much. Your in my heart and thoughts everyday.

I would like to let everyone know about the following information:

I am the Trustee for The Brennan Schrang Memorial Fund. I am also the Sect. of the Suffolk County Fire Fighters Emerald Society, to which Gerry Schrang was a charter member. I am overwhelmed by emotion from all of your comments and prayers for Gerry. So, I wanted to let you all know the Emerald Society has formed a Memorial Fund to benefit our two members lost in the tragic events of 9/11, Gerry Schrang and Pete Brennan. We are selling tee shirts, long sleeve shirts and sweat shirts, to raise money for the families. All profits go directly to the families and we have set a goal of $50,000.00. That would be $25,000.00 for each family. Please help us if you can. Spread the word of the Memorial Shirts, Let people know we are still to this day, remembering and helping out the families. The Shirts can be purchased online or you can contact me personally to place a large order. I can also provide you with our Tax Id # should you need it for tax purposes, just request it from me. I Thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers, and hope to hear from you soon. My cell Phone for shirts #516-805-4130 or to purchase shirts online :www.firefightersemerald.com and goto the memorial page to view the shirt and then the order form to purchase. Thank You again





Rosemarie

S.C.V.F.D.E.S

The Brennan Schrang Memorial Fund

DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL HERO...GERARD P.SCHRANG AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN...FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS...GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK...MAY JESUS AND ST.GERARD GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AND ST.PETER THE FISHERMAN TOO...AMEN

DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL HERO...GERARD P.SCHRANG AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE AND CHILDREN...FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS...GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK...MAY JESUS AND ST.GERARD GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN

I just wanted to let you know that you raised a remarkable daughter. She has reached out to others when we should be reaching out to her. You should be very proud of yourself.

To the Schrang Family,



I have received 9.11 bracelet with Gerard's name and just wanted to let you know that I will wear it with great pride. My husband is a Police Officer, EMT, and LT on our Volunteer Fire Department. He takes great pride in what he does as I am sure Gerard did. They are very special men to do what they do and love every minute of it. I am sure Gerard will be thought of and talked foundly about by all who new and loved him.

Don't ever forget the little things.



My families thoughts and prayers will be with you from now on.



Shelli Deglman

To the Schrang family,

I am 19 years old and I'm a Seach and Rescue team leader out here in colorado. I just wanted to tell you all that I recieved my 9/11 memorial bracelet in the mail with FF Schrang's name on it. I just want you to know that I'll wear it in honor of his name, and your sacrifice.

Dear Schrang family,

I grieve with you in the loss of so fine a man. My 29 year old daughter is a volunteer fire fighter with Toms River Company 1. She will be wearing the 9-11 bracelet engraved with Gerard's name, in his memory, and to honor his life. God bless and comfort you all.

Denise, Jackie, and Brian,

Thank you all so much for sharing with me the memories of Gerry. Although I never knew Gerry personally, After my visit with your family I felt as though I had known him all my life. I think of you daily, and include you in my prayers. May God (and Gerry) watch over you all and keep you save. Denise, If you EVER need anything you know you can count on me. By the way, I still owe you a vacation. :o) Keep in touch, Shel

Dear Jackie,

You & your family have been in my thoughts & prayers since Sept. 11th. My dad, Kevin Lavelle worked with your dad in L33 E75. I don't know if you remember me but we spent some time together at the father/kid camping trips when we were younger. My dad has nothing but the greatest things to say about your father. He showed me some pictures of them goofing around outside of the firehouse on Jerome Ave. I wear a red bracelet with your dad's name on it as my way of paying tribute to your father. I have been meaning to send you a note to let you know that i think of your family often, and i'm truly sorry for your loss. I admire your strength and courage, and i know your father's spirit lives on in you, your brother, and your mom. May you find peace through all of this. Stay strong Jackie..........Justine Lavelle

To my wonderful neighbors, You are all such a part of my childhood memories and I remember being so in awe of Gerry way back then. It was hard for me to believe that someone would choose to put themselves in danger for the sake of helping others. I am sure my Dad shook his hand and welcomed his new "neighbor". I love you all and always have, your babysitter, Michele

Dear Shrang family,

I have Gerard's mercy b.a.n.d and fell very pround 2 wear it. I was so excited that I have a mercy b.an.d in his honor. So please keep in touch, because I would love to learn more about you guys. I will always keep his mercy b.a.n.d in my heart. You guys and Gerard will be in my thoughts and prayers all the time. Thank You

To The Schrang's

In your sorrow try to remember Faith is meant for times like this

When sorrow comes to you;

Hope is meant to give you strength

To see these hours through...

And may this thought bring comfort

And help in some small way

To strenghten you with Faith

And Hope until a brighter day.

Our Thoughts aand prayers are with you daily. Gerard will never be forgotten.

Very truly yours,

Bob,Fran,Bobby &

Anne-Marie

GERARD

YOU WILL BE MISSED. OUR THOUGHT'S AND PRAYERS WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU. I WISH WE COULD HAVE SEEN EACH OTHER BEFORE THIS HAPPEN,YOU ARE A TRUE HERO AND A GREAT FIREMAN. GOD BLESS.YOU WILL BE MISSED MY FRIEND

IT IS WRITTEN, GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN THAN THAT HE LIES DOWN HIS LIFE

FOR A FRIEND. In this,Gerry went the

extra mile in that he laid down his

life for those he didnt know. The world is a much darker place without

him and all his fellow heroes and heroins, but he is now at peace and

in the presence of his creator for all eternity. To all who knew him and yearn to be with him once more,

make his creator your creator and

soon you will rejoin him for all eternity. Well done thou good and

faithful servant. From your neighbor

from across street.

Gerard will be in our thoughts and prayers always. To his entire family I offer my love,comfort and prayers.He was a true hero in every sense of the word and he will be sorely missed by his many friends and family.He can rest now, knowing he gave his all for a job well done. God bless you.

What a wonderful heart Gerard must have had to dedicate his life to helping and caring for others. The world thanks him tremendously. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Gerard. Our hearts cry with you.

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

Dear Denise & Family,



Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Just remember how many lives Gerry saved and how brave he was. I'm so sorry his life couldn't be spared too. He will be missed.



God bless,

Patti & Frank Lynch

Denise:

When I spoke to you on the computer on Sept 11th I never imagined this is where it would all end. George is so happy that he and Gerry became close again and went hunting together. I just wished we had slowed down in life and made that time to come up to the cabin and spend a weekend with you. Perhaps in time, you and I can still have that girlfriends weekend. Know that you, Jackie and Brian are always in our thoughts and prayers.

We will continue to think of you and Gerry each year as we celebrate our anniversary, as we have each year since we said I do. (June 13th)

We love you

Dear Denise: Let me take you back about 15 or 20 years, this is Joanne Murphy, and I want you to know that you have been on my mind every day since I learned that Gerry was called to the WTC on September 11th. It has been so long since the early days of Engine 45 and the last time we saw each other, and still my heart was broken by this news. I remember Gerry as the guy who arranged to be at work on the busiest days of the year. He welcomed 24's on holidays especially the 4th of July, (for obvious reasons) I was not surprised to hear that Gerry joined the rescue unit. Firefighting was clearly in his blood. Your house on L.I. was always a stop off from the Bronx to the Hamptons. I am happy to have many memories at your place with you, Gerry, the kids, (the dogs & the bunnies)and I am sure that you have valuable memories of your own that will keep Gerry close to you. I will keep you & your children in my thoughts & prayers... Love Joanne

To The Schrang Family,

Although I only know of this tragedy through Jan, I want you to know that in our hearts he is a true hero. I pray every day that you may find solace and comfort in the fact that he was one of America's heroes.

God bless you.

Jean

Dear Denise and Children,

Although i didn't know Gerry personally, i knew of him and he was a great guy. He gave up his life helping others. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers always.

Dear Denise,jackie,brian,

Gerry ment the world to me, and forever will.All the time he spent with me when we were younger was priceless. One time when I rode with 75engine with Gerry in the back and joe willy oic and wayne driving, we were comeing back from a call and wayne stopped the truck in traffic, little did i know that wayne had waved this girl over to us,she ran straight through 4 lanes of traffic and climbed up on the truck.with the power vested in me(capt joe willy) I was married ! Gerry was my best man. the only problem was when i went to take a picture of my new bride,she jumped off the truck and i have never seen her again. I have since married again (happily) Needless to say,this was one of the funnier times we shared together about 18 years ago. Thanks for taking me to work that day Juice!!!!! Gerry will always be in my thoughts and prayers.

Your Friend Always

EDDIE"D"

Gerry Schrang,

Husband, father, son, you are all of these. I grieve with your family for you as one of my son's commrades and will keep you in my prayers.

Chris' mom

Denise,Jackie & Brian:

Words can not express how we feel over your loss. Gerry was a great friend to me & a great teacher to all the younger men who come to the firehouse.We spent many a late night together talking about family & things we would like to do. The cabin was #1 on his list, I'm so glad he got to see his dream come true.Please remember that you & the children & a course Gerry will always be in our thoughts & prayers.If there is ever anything Fran or I can do please call us, & keep those cards & letters (JOKES) coming. Love,Wayne & Fran