December 4, 2024                                      RET. P.O. DEBRA 'DEBBIE' DOONAN-MEYER

From Chip Hayes chip1440@lawyer.com

RET. P.O. DEBRA 'DEBBIE' DOONAN - MEYER
4/14/1969 - 11/30/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Debra 'Debbie' Doonan-Meyer of Pearl River who died suddenly and peacefully on November 30, 2024, at the age of 55. Debbie was appointed to the Transit Police on October 15, 1990 and retired from NYPD after 20 years (date unknown)

From the FH website:

Growing up, Debbie attended St. Margaret's school and Pearl River High School. After high school, she graduated from Rockland Community College. In 1990, she entered the Police Academy where she worked as an NYPD Transit Police Officer for 20 years. Following her retirement, she spent her time adoring her nieces and nephews. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

Along with her love for nieces and nephews, Debbie always looked after and took care of her mother. Debbie had a love for traveling the world and attended many trips with her mother as well. She waited her whole life to find her soulmate and get married at the age of 54.
Debbie will be remembered for her smile, laughter, generosity, life of the party attitude and being an avid Mets fan.

She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Meyer, her mother Marcy Doonan, her sisters Patricia (Jon) Forsberg, Barbara (Tony) Caprara, Sister-in-law Diane Wurzer (Walter), nieces and nephews Thomas, Kayla, Jake, Alexa, Sophia, Tyler and her beloved cat DJ and bird Timneh. She also leaves behind aunts, cousins, and close long-time friends. Debbie is predeceased by her father George Doonan. She will be missed by all who know her.

Viewing services will be at Wyman Fisher Funeral Home – 100 Franklin Ave Pearl River, NY on Friday Dec 6 from 4:00pm-8:00pm.

A Catholic mass will be on Saturday, Dec 7 at St. Margaret's Church 115 West Central Ave Pearl River, NY at 10:00am.

Burial will follow at St. Anthony's Cemetery at 36 W Nyack Rd, Nanuet, NY 10954.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Tunnel to Towers foundation in her memory https://dogood.t2t.org/donate.

Condolences may be left at the Funeral home website:  https://www.wymanfisher.com/obituary/Debra-Doonan-Meyer

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Meyer & Doonan families. May Debbie Rest in Peace.

RET. LT. JOHN 'JJ' MURRAY
11/8/1939 - 11/29/2024

Sent by Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as seen in Newsday.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Lt. John 'JJ' Murray on November 29th at the age of 85 years.
John was appointed to the Transit Police on November 4, 1966 and retired from NYPD, date unknown.

Funeral services took place on December 3rd & 4th.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Murray family. May John rest in peace along with his wife, Marilyn.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. D/Sgt. Dennis Bootle on November 26th, at the age of 78 years. Dennis was appointed NYCTPD on 4/3/1972 and retired from the NYPD.

From Lou:
Unfortunately, I don’t have any further details about funeral details. Fred Mack informed me he saw Dennis had passed on Facebook. I searched for a few days for information with negative results. I had the pleasure of being one of his first training officers after he was assigned to District 1 after the academy. He was very anxious to become a heavy hitter and clean up all the crime in the subway. He sure didn’t get that from being on patrol with me for one night, but I knew he was going to turn out to be an exceptional cop, which he was. He retired, moved to Florida and became a Cold Case detective in the Lake County Sheriff's Office where you can see he was loved by many.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. LT JAMES JOSEPH BARRY (late notice)
9/6/1944 - 11/15/2024

Information from Pres. Bob Valentino leftybowler0601@gmail.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Lt. James Joseph Barry, on November 15th at the age of 80 years. James was appointed to the Transit Police on December 15, 1965 and retired January 2, 1991.

The wake and burial took place on Friday November 22nd.

Condolences may be sent to his wife Veronica at 46 Dickie Avenue Staten Island NY 10314

Jim is survived by his wife, Veronica, his children, Deborah, Donna, Joseph and his wife Shannon, Nicole and her husband Nicholas, his grandchildren, Tabatha, James, Connor and his wife Kristen, Victoria, James Joseph, Liam, Emma, Logan, Scarlett, Nicholas, and his great grandchildren, Moses, Eli, Izaiah, Aria, Melanie, and Bennett. He is also survived by his sister, Dorothy, nieces, and nephews.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Veronica and the entire Barry family. May Jim rest in peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JOSEPH QUATELA
1/16/1943 - 11/16/2024

2nd VP Vinny DiMaio N2ZUC@optonline.net received this information from Tony DeMaio tonyd62@verizon.net


We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. PO Joseph Quatela who passed away on November 16th at the age of 81 years. Joseph was appointed to the Transit Police on November 28, 1967 and retired February 1, 1986. Joseph was in a nursing home with dementia along with his wife, Rosa, also suffering from dementia.

There will be no services but a funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 19th at 9:45AM at St. Mel's RC Church located at
26-15 154th Street in Flushing NY tel. 718-886-0201 with burial to follow.

From the family's request:

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joseph G. Quatela.  He is survived by his wife Rosa (nee Tarantini), his sister Lynn Withers, and his nieces and nephews. Former veteran and retired New York City Transit Police Officer, left us on November 16th, 2024. He was 81 years old.

Born on January 16th 1943, in Corato, Bari, Italy, Joseph Quatela dedicated many years of his life to serving and protecting the citizens of New York City. Known for his unwavering commitment to duty and his compassionate heart, he made a lasting impact on the community he served. His colleagues admired him for his bravery and integrity, and his family loved him for being steadfast in all he did.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude's Childrens Hospital.

Condolences may be sent to his sister Lynn Withers lynnwithers@bell.net or his niece Marcella Withers at marcella.withers@gmail.com

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Sgt. Martin Lawless on November 12th, at the age of 73 years. Marty was appointed NYCTPD 10/1/1973 and retired from NYPD in 1995 after the merger. May he “Rest in Peace”

Services took place on November 17th & 18th

Obituary and Tribute wall can be viewed on Funeral Home Webpage www.thomasfdaltonfuneralhomes.com/tributes/Martin-Lawless

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Quatell & Withers families and the Lawless family. May their departed loved ones Rest in Peace.

November 7, 2024                      LIFETIME MEMBER RET. SGT. HAROLD 'SKIP' KURRUS (late notice) &
                                                      FORMER TPO NYPD DET. KEVIN HANLEY (late notice)

Received from Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary information received from Bill Slowski wilslowski@hotmail.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Harold "Skip" Kurrus, on October 26th, at the age of 69 years. Harold was appointed to the Transit Police on 12/1/1965 and retired 2/1/1986. 

His obituary can be viewed  on funeral home web page
https://chapeyfamily.com/tribute/details/6325/Harold-Kurrus/service-information.html#tribute-start.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Kurrus and Hanley families. May their departed loved ones Rest in Peace.

Information received from Mike Fanning hntsgt@gmail.com

I just received word that (Lifetime Member) Retired P.O. Richard Falke passed away after a long battle with cancer. Richie was an active member of the Myrtle Beach 10-13 Club and will be missed. Please keep his wife, Grace, and family in your thoughts. May he rest in peace.

Richard was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965, and retired January 7, 1986.

Funeral services took place on October 31st.in North Myrtle Beach.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/little-river-sc/richard-falke-12045998

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Grace, and the Falke family. May Richard rest in peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. ALAN BERKOWITZ
5/26/1953 - 10/21/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of another "Transit Police Legend," Lifetime Member
Ret. Det. Alan Berkowitz, on October 20th, at the age of 71 years. Alan had been a tremendous help to many of his fellow officers over many years with his numerous emails about incidents related to law enforcement, health issues and benefits, and many other beneficial items.

Alan joined the Transit Police Department as a Trainee on December 6, 1971 and retired on April 24, 1986. He was a fixture at many Florida Reunions with so many different T-shirt designs, caps and other items that were purchased by many who attended those affairs.

Information received from Christine McIntyre

 Around 1975 he worked in Manhattan CWAC, with my team 1 briefly till he was transferred to Brooklyn A/C. I did not see
Alan again till the yearly Florida Transit Police Reunion began in August 1997. Alan attended every FL Reunion (except 2020 and 2021 due to Covid) The last time I saw him was at the 2024 reunion in July. Because of his health he only stayed for 1 night. Over the years we have become good friends.

Alan was the go-to guy for information regarding Health care, Medicare, Medicare reimbursement, HR 218. He had helped many of his “Transit Police brothers and sisters” (as Alan like to refer to us as). Alan worked for the Broward County Sheriffs Office briefly as the Assistant to the Sheriff. He also served 2 or 3 terms as President of the Broward 10-13 Club. At the time of his passing, he was a Director of the 10-13 Club. Alan was a good guy; he had a heart bigger than himself. I was proud to call him a friend. May he “Rest in Peace.”

The funeral services, along with a ZOOM Viewing of those services, took place on October 23rd.

Shiva was held on October 24th & 25th.

Our deepest condolences to his wife, Robin, and the Berkowitz family. May Alan Rest in  Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Michael Fanning hntsgt@gmail.com

Retired Detective 2nd Grade Clarence "Clay" Word passed away following a battle with pancreatic
cancer caused by his response to 9/11.

Clay began his career in District 32 and spent time in the Street Crime Unit, the 63 Precinct Detective
Squad and retired from the Hate Crime Task Force. He was a good man and taken from us too soon.
May the Lord look after his family and may he rest in peace.

Clarence was appointed to NYCTPD 4/30/1991 and retired from NYPD sometime after the merge.

Services took place on October 7th & 8th.

You can View Obituary and Tribute book here. Obituary information for Clarence E. Word III

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Word family. May Clarence Rest in Peace.

Information received from John Rini dad2020@optonline.net

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Robert 'Bob' Mintzes on October 1st at the age of 82 years. Bob was appointed to the Transit Police on November 4, 1966, and retired January 10, 1988.

John Rini met & worked with Bob in District 33 from 1976 -1983, and  became friends along with Ronnie Alberghine.

Services took place on Saturday October 5th.

Condolences may be left on the funeral home website www.raynordandrea.com/obituary/Robert-Mintzes
or Bob's son Andrew Mintzes  ajmintzes@yahoo.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Mintzes family. May Bob rest in peace.

We regret to inform our members you of the passing of Timothy O’Brien, brother of Associate Member Thomas O’Brien Jr. Tom is also the Treasurer of the NY State Fraternal Order Of Police.

Services took place on October 2nd & 3rd

Please keep the O’Brien family in your thoughts and prayers.

Condolences may be sent to Tom at tomo@nysfop.org

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the O'Brien family. May Timothy rest in peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. VINCENT "VINNY" SERVEDIO
04/28/1935 - 09/21/2024

President Bob Valentino received the sad news Sunday, that Vinnie had passed away Saturday evening,

Donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to Veteran's Administration Medical Center at 79 Middleville Road Northport NY 11768

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website
www.weigandbrothers.com/tribute/details/2853/Vincent-Servedio/obituary.html#tribute-start  

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Servedio family. May Vinnie Rest in Peace.

September 23, 2024                 LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JAMES GROARK (late notice)

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JAMES GROARK
01/09/1942 - 09/18/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. James Groark, on September 18th, at the age of 82 years. James was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965, and retired May 18, 1983. He was a former Executive Secretary of the Transit Police PBA and was very helpful to his fellow officers in need. He then vested out and started working at GHI where he was instrumental in helping many fellow members of the force with any problems related to their health insurance coverage.

Funeral services and Mass were held on September 20th & 21st with burial in St. Charles Cemetery on Long Island.

Condolences may be left on the funeral home website:
James Groark Obituary 2024 - Mangano Family Funeral Homes, Inc. (manganofh.com)

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Groark family. May James Rest in Peace.

RET. SGT. ROBERT E. BRUNKE
2/26/1943 - 09/08/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Sgt. Robert E. Brunke on September 8th at the age of 81 years.
We do not have his appointment date, but Robert retired on October 26, 1990.

From Det. Kelly:
I’m not sure if he was one of your members or not, but NYCTPD Sgt. Bob Brunke (Ret-TD11) passed away yesterday (9/8/2024). His wife, Rosemary, asked for help to spread the word to any of his old colleagues that may still be in the area.

Services were held on September 11th & 12th with Interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Hawthorne, NY

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Robert's Name to either of these organizations below:

The St Francis of Assisi Breadline St. Francis Breadline 

BA Widow and Children Fund Widows and Children’s Fund – Sergeants Benevolent Association of the NYPD

Condolences may be left on the funeral home website: www.farengabrosfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Robert-E-Brunke?obId=33027127

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Rosemary and the Brunke family. May Robert rest in peace.

As seen on Facebook Saturday, Sept. 7th

The DEA regrets to announce the passing of retired Det. Luis R. Cruz, who passed away September 3, 2024. He was appointed to the New York City Transit Police on December 1, 1980. He was promoted to Transit Detective on November 16, 1986. He merged into the NYPD in 1995, and retired out of the 83 Precinct on December 31, 2001. His death is pending 9/11 WTC status.

Funeral services took place on September 8th & 9th.

Condolences may be left at the Provenzano Lanza Funeral Home website:
https://www.lanzafuneralhome.com/obituaries/Luis-R-Cruz?obId=32996314

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Cruz family. May Luis Rest in Peace.

After several failed email attempts to contact Richard regarding the annual dues, we received a text message from his step-daughter, Kim Soreil, that Richard had passed away in 2022.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Richard Kessler on August 11, 2022, at the age of 68 years. Richard was appointed to the Transit Police on December 6, 1971, and retired January 2, 1992.

Condolences may be left on the funeral home obituary at  https://branchfh.com/obits/richard-e-kessler/

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Kessler family. May Richard rest in peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. RICHARD A. SAUNDERS

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Richard A. Saunders on August 26th, at the age of 79 years.

From Lou Hollander:

I received a phone call from Richie’s wife, Bettyjean, yesterday morning and she informed me of the passing of Richie on August 26th while he was hospitalized. Bett Jean informed me that as per Richie’s request, he did not want to have any funeral services or Celebration of Life. She informed me that the family will have a private gathering within the next couple of days.

Condolences may be sent to Bettyjean at 1860 Kings Point Blvd, Kissimmee FL 34744-6435 or email bjbw8@cfl.rr.com

Although there won’t be a viewing or service, I am told by the funeral home that they are waiting for the family to complete the arrangements. Keep checking to see if the Obituary is posted on the Grissom Funeral Home and Crematory | Funeral & Cremation (dignitymemorial.com)

I will miss seeing Richie at our Florida Transit Police Yearly Reunion in which he attended 22 of the last 25 years. The above photo was taken at one of the last reunions he attended. May Richie “Rest in Peace”

I received the following e-mail from Bill Joseph. mylexus97@yahoo.com

It pains me to announce the death of PO Richard Saunders. We were distantly related.
Richard passed away yesterday after suffering an extended struggle with cancer and other ailments.
Richard was born on May 30, 1945. He joined the NYCTPD on Mar. 10th, 1969 and retired on July 7, 1989. I know he worked in District 4 for a while.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Bettyjean and the Saunders family. May Richard Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary information received from Stu Friedman Stutattoo@yahoo.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET.CAPT. GARY NICHOLSON
8/6/1944 – 8/16/2024 

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Capt. Gary Nicholson, on August 16th at the age of 80 years. Gary was appointed to the NYCTPD 2/15/1966 and retired 4/10/1991. He was living in Jupiter FL.

From Stu Friedman:
I’m saddened to report that I was notified by Scott Nicholson, son of retired Captain of Detectives, Gary Nicholson, formerly of Transit District 3 and the Detective Bureau (my Sergeant when I came on the job in 1974) that Gary passed away on Friday, August 16th at home. He was 80 years old.

Currently, the family intends to have a private service with a celebration of life at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to Norah at nickandnorah1@gmail.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Nora and the Nicholson family. May Gary “Rest in Peace”

Emily McGowan wrote this eulogy for her husband, the late Lifetime Member, Ret. PO Dan McGowan, who passed away suddenly in June. It was read to the congregation at Dan's Memorial on August 3rd.

Dan was born on Palm Sunday, April 6, 1941, in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Eight months later, sadly, was the attack on Pearl Harbor. His childhood was full of adventure. Dan's wish growing up was to become a cowboy. He spent many hours going to the movies and his idol was John Wayne, “THE DUKE.” Even as a grownup he would watch the Duke’s movies over again and he also collected John Wayne memorabilia.

After school, he would be off to play stick ball in the street, thus his love for baseball developed. The Brooklyn Dodgers and Ebbets Field, where they often played, was his team.

When Dan was looking to earn spending money, he would be seen on his roller skates picking up and delivering cakes from the local store to various neighbors.
            
On December 1, 1965, Dan had the opportunity to become a New York City Transit Police Officer and served 20 years. The greatest moment was being able to save a man's life by doing CPR until the Medics arrived. On another occasion, Dan and one of his partners were able to prevent a tragic consequence by stopping a suicide from jumping in front of a train. He also didn’t like the paperwork involved with having to arrest someone either.

Dan became involved with baseball once again by joining his fellow officers forming NY Transit Baseball Team. Skip was his nickname and Catcher was his position on the team. Taylor, Dan's Granddaughter, has her softball roots from her Grandfather. She was the Star Pitcher of McArthur High School in Nassau County last year.

After retiring from the Transit Police, Dan took the CDL test to become a Tri-Boro Coach Bus Driver and spent the next 15 years in another blue uniform. This prompted a move to Oyster Bay, cutting his travel time in half.

In 2003, Dan retired and looked for yet another opportunity to work. The Life Enrichment Center was the place he went to find the answer. He drove the bus for the Daybreak folks as well as the Senior Center regulars. When the Pandemic hit, he delivered hot meals to the shut-ins in the area, a welcome site for so many.

Sports was Dan's time for relaxation. Baseball, naturally during the season, was his favorite pastime. Football and golf were close behind. He often hoped the NY teams would be relied on to make it to the playoffs, Giants, Jets, and even the Buffalo Bills. In golf weather, he was playing or watching the Championships would make his day. His foursome was with his buddies from his Triboro Coach days. He would gladly travel at 4 in the morning upstate to have a tee time with his friends. Who knew of a team with three lefties?

When retirement finally arrived in 2003, Dan and Emily were able to enjoy many trips. Dan's fear of flying was soon overcome. The refrigerator has many magnets Dan collected from the different countries we visited. The annual Christmas card would be a trip traveled during the year, Alaska, Hawaii, the Rhine and Danube Rivers, the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River.

The greatest feeling Dan had was helping others. He was able to donate his plasma and platelets at the Blood Center since he had AB Positive blood which they so often needed to help burn victims and others.

Danny had many health issues in his later lifetime. He survived a brain aneurysm, quintuple bypass and most recently, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma which went into remission. We knew him as the Bionic man-bouncing back so often.

Sadly, Dan's last day was to happen at Christ Church during the annual Picnic, which was on Father's Day, June 16. He was surrounded by his beloved Church Family when he met his Maker.

Rest in Peace, Dan. We will miss you at our meetings, but we know Emily will be there for you.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

I was informed by Jack McCarthy that his wife Marge passed away on August 8th after a long illness. I had the pleasure of knowing Marge from Jack & Marge's attending many of the NYC Transit Police Florida Reunions. She was an avid reader and a very nice person to be around. Marge’s son, Brian Duggan was a former Transit Cop appointed 9/13/92 and retired from NYPD as a Lt. after the merger.

Condolences can be sent to Jack and family at 3805 Amen Corner, Riverhead NY 11901 or email Mcjck5@aol.com 

The above photo was taken on the 2nd Florida Transit Police Reunion cruise.

Services were held on August 11th & 12th in Riverhead NY with burial at Resurrection Cemetery in Staten Island.

Donations in Margaret’s memory may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, 110 Bi-Country Blvd., Suite 114, Farmingdale, NY 11735

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Jack and the McCarthy family. May Marge “Rest in Peace.”

July 28, 2024                            WIFE OF LIFETIME MEMBER RET. SGT. THOMAS McDONALD

FRANCES McDONALD

I am saddened to inform you of the sudden passing of Tom’s wife, Frances, on July 23rd. They both were yearly attendees of the Florida Reunion. She was a very nice person and it was enjoyable to be in her company. We will miss her during their yearly Florida visits. Please keep Tom in your prayers, that he finds comfort during these difficult times.

Condolences can be sent to Tommy McDonald and his family at 3077 Bruckner Blvd, Bronx NY 10461, email ttmd636@yahoo.com
If friends wish to call Tommy, his cell # is 718- 664-5628.

Services were held on July 27th and the Obituary can be viewed on the funeral home web page,
www.schuylerhill.com/memorials/frances-mcdonald/5463385/index.php   

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Tom and the McDonald family. May Frances Rest in Peace.

July 26, 2024                                       LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. THOMAS J. NAUGHTON

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. THOMAS J. NAUGHTON
3/7/1936 – 7/21/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Thomas J. Naughton on July 21st at the age of 84 years.  He was appointed to NYCTPD 2/16/1966 and retired 3/8/1991. Tom was the vet tech for the canine unit.

I worked with Tommy in D-34 for several years and he always talked lovingly about his canine family members. I believe he raised Weimaraners -Tony 

Funeral arraignments and condolences can be viewed on funeral home web page, https://wbhfh.com/obituary/thomas-j-naughton/ 
or to Tom's wife, Nora, at 97 Smoke Tree Terrace, Red Bank NJ 07701-6724

Services were held on July 28th & 29th

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital  https://www.stjude.org/give.html or
The Humane Society of the United States https://www.humanesociety.org/how-you-can-help

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Nora and the Naughton family. May Tom Rest in Peace.

July 18, 2024                                               RET. CAPTAIN ROBERT LAWRENCE JESTIC

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Capt. Robert Lawrence Jestic on July 17th at the age of 66 years. Robert was appointed to the Transit Police on October 20, 1981 and retired from the NYPD - date unknown.

We received this email from his son Bryan:

It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my father Robert Jestic. Back in October, my dad was diagnosed with stage four small cell cancer. It drastically changed all of our lives within days. These last nine months have been nothing but hospital visits, doctors’ appointments, chemotherapy treatments and so on. Tough is one word to describe it, but it could also describe my dad throughout it all. I would not be where I am today without his guidance, love, and care. This hurts tremendously, but I have peace knowing he's finally with my sister again in heaven. Love you always and forever dad.

My father was a dearly beloved husband, father, uncle and friend. He will be greatly missed by all his loving family and friends.  
Over the last decade, Dad had continued working as Chief Security Officer of the MTA Revenue Department. He has a passion for writing several books and teaching cybersecurity at a New York State college, and, of course, enjoyed watching the New York Yankees and New York Islanders. 

Funeral arrangements were held on July 21st & 22nd

Internment at St. Charles/Resurrection Cemetery

Condolences may be sent to Bryan at victoriareinold@gmail.com or

on the funeral home website: www.weigandbrothers.com/tribute/details/2795/Robert-Jestic/obituary.html#tribute-start

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Jestic family. May Robert Rest in Peace.

July 12, 2024                                                 TESTIMONIALS FOR SGT. THOMAS McNAMARA

Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net received testimonials for the late Ret. Sgt. Tom McNamara. They can be viewed

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

We regret to inform our memebrs and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Sgt. Tomas "Tommy" McNamara on July 5th, at the age of 75 years. Tommy was appointed to NYCTPD on 10/1/1973 and was a Sgt. in District 1.  He retired from NYPD after the merge. 

Condolences can be left on the funeral home web page New Hyde Park Funeral Home www.nhpfh.com/post/thomas-p-mcnamara

or condolences to Tommy’s wife Lorraine at 108 Bromleigh Rd. Stuart Manor, NY 11530

Visitation & Funeral Mass took place on July 10th and 11th

WEB PAGE New Hyde Park Funeral Home www.nhpfh.com/post/thomas-p-mcnamara

INTERMENT
Calverton National Cemetery
210 Princeton Boulevard, Calverton, NY

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: Wounded Warrior Project - Donate

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Lorraine and the McNamara family. May Tommy Rest in Peace.

We initially received this sad information from Michelle Kemp mskemp2u@aol.com who was on vacation in Greece.
Michelle is a good friend of Jacques and his sister Linda Vital.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Jacques Maurice on July 3rd, at the age of 87 years. Jacques was appointed to the Transit Police on October 23, 1961 and retired October 1, 1981. He had been hospitalized recently and was in hospice at the time of his passing.

Funeral services took placeon July 18th & 19th.   

Condolences may be sent to Jacques' sister, Linda Vital 197 Greene Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11238

I worked with Jacques in the O/U in the late '60s. He was very helpful in showing me around the unit and was a very nice person to work with. Tony

We have deleted an email we received from a friend of Jacques, Joe Gonzalez joeiscalling@yahoo.com as the details he mentioned were totally incorrect according to Jacques' sister Linda.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Maurice family. May Jacques Rest in Peace.

Thanks to Ret. Lt. Charles McCray cemmcray@aol.com for notifying us of this:

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. George Young on June 20th, at the age of 83 years. George had been suffering from lung cancer. George was appointed to the Transit Police on December 3, 1968 and retired July 1, 1989.

Services took place on July 8th

From George's daughter Karen Lane:

My Dad was in the Air Force and his remains will be interred at Salisbury National Cemetery on Tuesday July 9th at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Friendship Missionary Baptist  Church - Scholarship.

Condolences may be sent to his wife Carrie at 4232 Shannamara Drive., Matthews NC 28104-0604

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Huxley Smith on June 25th at the age of 82 years. Huxley was appointed to the Transit Police on November 4, 1966 and retired July 8, 1987.

Services took place on July 12th at 9AM:

Condolences may be sent to his wife, Dorothy, at 13149 230TH ST., Laurelton NY 11413-1831

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Young and Smith families. May the departed loved ones Rest in Peace.

Thanks to Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verzion.net for sending these.

FROM BOB MCGUIRE

Eugene John “Gene” Roach is a police brother, a close and treasured friend for more than fifty (50) years.  Gene sent me the following several years ago.

At birth we board the train and meet our parents, and we believed they would always travel on our side.  However, at some station our parents will step down from the train, leaving us alone on this journey.

As time goes by, other people will board the train; and they will be significant – our siblings, friends, children, and even the love of your life.

Many will step down and leave a permanent vacuum, others will go so unnoticed that we don’t even realize they vacated their seats.

This train ride will be full of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations, hellos, goodbyes, and farewells.  Success consists of having a good relationship with all passengers requiring that we give the best of ourselves.

The mystery to everyone is:  We do not know at which station we ourselves will step down.  So, we must live in the best way, love, forgive, and offer the best of who we are.

This is important because when the time comes for us to step down and leave our seat empty, we should leave behind beautiful memories for those who will continue to travel on the train of life.

I wish you a joyful journey on the train of life.  Reap success and give lots of love.  More importantly, thank God for the journey.

Lastly, Richard, I thank you for being one of the passengers on my train.

June 20, 2024, was a very sad day in my life because that’s the day Gene stepped down from the train, leaving our journey together and vacating his huge seat.
 
I will miss our visits in New York, lengthy lunches and dinners with he and Rosemary that were always filled with so much laughter. We talked on the phone every week, reminiscing about our police careers, our families, friends and all those people who have impacted our lives while on this train.  Truly, we have shared all the events and emotions that shaped who we have become on this train ride of life.

What will I miss most?  Hard to say, but probably those weekly phone calls, always laced with the constant antics about our aging.  His wit, his inimitable sense of humor, his infectious laugh, too many to name. 

Eugene, my brother, may God’s grace be with you until it is my turn to exit the train and we meet again on the other side.

Your brother in Blue,
Richard

FROM SAL CONTI

FROM PAT WALSH

We first heard this sad news from Lou Hollander through Freddy Mack

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Lt. Eugene John 'Gene' Roach on June 20th, at the age of 81 years. Gene was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired from the NYPD sometime in 1997. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps.

From President Bob Valentino:
I am saddened to inform you of the passing of Retired Lieutenant Gene Roach. He possessed the distinctive qualities
of a gracious gentleman, a historic Marine, a great cop and an outstanding boss. I spoke to him a few weeks ago and he was as jovial and cheerful as ever. I am sure that everyone who knew him can remember a classic interaction that they had with him. A true legend and I was so proud to coordinate his retirement party.
Gene, the Marine, you will be missed but always remembered by so many. Condolences to the entire family. Rest in peace my dear friend.

Funeral services took place on July 1st & 2nd with Internment at Pinelawn Memorial Park, Long Island

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website: https://www.moloneyfh.com/obituaries/eugene-roach

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Roach family. May Gene Rest in Peace.

June 19, 2024             LIFETIME MEMBERS RET. POs DANIEL McGOWAN and MANUEL BUSTO
                                                                       RET. DET. DANIEL RIZZO

 

We received the news about Danny McGowan on Monday when his wife, Emily, called and told us the sad news. They had been to a church picnic when Danny tripped on some steps and fell on his head. He never regained consciousness and passed away, I believe, in the hospital.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the sudden passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Daniel 'Danny' McGowan on June 16th, at the age of 83 years. Danny was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired January 3, 1986. He worked in D/34 for almost 17 years. I worked with him in those years and always found him to be a cop with a good sense of humor and one you can depend upon in every instance.

As per Danny's wishes, he was cremated with no funeral services. A memorial service will take place in July or August and will be posted.

Condolences may be sent to his wife, Emily, at ladybug916@optonline.net or 1 Anchorage Lane Apt 3A, Oyster Bay NY 11771-2719

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Emily and the McGowan family. May Danny Rest in Peace.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Rizzo family. May Danny Rest in Peace.

We were notified of John's passing by Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com
Funeral details from John's daughter, Marlene mrbla960@gmail.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. John F. Brown, on June 8th, at the age of 85 years. We were informed that John had been suffering from cancer. John is also the father of member Ret. P.O. John E. Brown.

John F. Brown was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired December 31, 1992.

Services took place on June 20th

Condolences may be sent to John E. Brown at jeb60@aol.com and his sister Marlene at mrbla960@gmail.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Brown family. May John Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. P.O. ANTHONY GULOTTA
8/2/1955 – 5/28/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Anthony Gulotta, on May 28th, at the age of 68 years.

Lou was told of Tony’s passing by his wife Kathy. He had health issues for quite a few years. Kathy said there will be a Memorial Mass later. Tony was appointed NYCTPD on 1/9/1986 and retired from the NYPD, date unknown.

Condolences can be sent to Kathy at GKathy56@aol.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Kathy and the Gulotta family. May Anthony Rest in Peace.

June 3, 2024                           LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. WILLIAM CAVANAGH (late notice)

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary information received from Kevin Costigan chiefdiggerny@gmail.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. WILLIAM “BILL” CAVANAGH (late notice)
1/20/1942 – 5/28/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Det. William Cavanagh on May 28th at the age of 84 years. Bill was appointed NYCTPD 12/1/1965 and retired 4/4/1987.

Bill’s obituary and funeral arrangements can be viewed on the Funeral Home webpage. Obituary information for William C Cavanagh can be viewed at the funeral home website: https://www.towersfuneralhomeny.com/obituaries/William-C-Cavanagh?obId=31665920

Services took place on May 31st and June 1st.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Diane and the Cavanagh family. May William Rest in Peace.

We regret to inform our members of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. William Troupe on May 17th, at the age of 86 years.
William was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired July 13, 1987.

We received a response to our meeting notice email today as "unknown" email address. When we called and spoke to his wife, Lois, she sadly informed us that William had passed away. His remains were cremated, and a service will be held.

There will be a Gathering on Wednesday, June 5th at 10:00AM followed by a service at 11:00 AM at

The Greater Allen AME Methodist Church
110-31 Merrick Blvd, Queens, NY 11433  (718) 206-4600

Condolences may be sent to his wife Lois, at 17020 130th Ave, Apt. 11C, Jamaica NY 11434

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Lois and the Troupe family. May William Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Westley Marcus on May 21st, at the age of 73 years.
Westley was appointed to NYCTPD 1/29/82 and retired from NYPD in 2002.

Lou was informed of Westly’s passing by his wife Kathy Bohner. She inform me that he had been ill for a long time. He was living in Maine at the time of his death. There will not be a service as he will be cremated. 

His wife, Ret. P.O. Kathryn Bohner, is a member of the Retirees Assocation. Condolences can be sent to Kathy at KB2152@aol.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies toKathryn and the Bohner-Marcus family. May Westly “Rest in Peace.”

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net and Joe Calardo slambang10@hotmail.com

RET. P.O. DANIEL BOLGER
11/18/1939 - 05/06/2024

We regret to inform our memebrs and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Daniel Bolger, on May 6th, at the age of 84 years.
Danny was appointed to NYCTPD 12/1/1965. Joe Calardo thinks he retired on a disability in the late '80s.

(From Lou) I worked in the same command, Dist. 1 from ’70 to ’74. I believe Danny worked his entire career in District 1.

You can view his Obituary and funeral arrangements on the Funeral Home Web Page:
Daniel P. Bolger Obituary (1939-2024) | Holbrook, NY (echovita.com)

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Bolger family. May Dan Rest in Peace.

Linda & Charles Papio

We regret to inform our fellow members and friends that Linda Papio, wife of Ret. P.O. Charles Papio, had passed away on May 1st. She had recently been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in late 2023 and was undergoing chemo but the treatments were not effective in stopping the cancer. Carol and Charles had been married 52 years.

Services were held on May 6th and 7th..

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website:  Linda Papio Obituary in Brooklyn at Aievoli Funeral Home – Aievoli Funeral Home
or to Charles at charles.papio1946@gmail.com

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Information received from Joe Wolff wolff.joseph@gmail.com

RET. DET. ANTHONY SCALIA
12/5/1957 – 4/26/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Det. Anthony Scalia on April 26th at the age of 66 years.

From Lou:
Tony was appointed to NYCTPD 7/15/1986 and retired as a Det. at some time after the merger. This is all the information I have about him. Tony was living in The Villages, FL.

The latest information we received from Joe Wolf was that Tony's remains were cremated and the family has made no funeral arrangements or services.

Update received from Vic Zapata zap7505@aol.com

Louie,

Condolences can be sent to Maria Scalia phone 516-582-2806

Address:   2992 Hicks Place   The Villages, Florida 32163

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Scalia family. May Anthony Rest in Peace.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. James Graziano, on April 18th at the age of 82 years from cancer. James was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired December 8, 1985.

Services took place on April 22-24

INTERMENT WITH MILITARY HONORS
St. Charles Cemetery
2015 Wellwood Ave
Farmingdale, NY 11735

Condolences may be sent to his wife, Karin Graziano, at 76 Tiffany Ct S, Nesconset NY 11767-1080
or at the funeral home website www.stjamesfuneralhome.com/obituary/James-Graziano

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Karin and the Graziano family. May James Rest in Peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. ANTHONY 'TONY' VONA
6/29/1936 - 4/7/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Anthony 'Tony' Vona, on April 7th 2024 at the age of 87 years after being diagnosed with cancer 10 months ago. His daughter, Regina, had contacted us at the time of his passing but arrangements were only recently finalized.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM with a Memorial Service beginning at 12:30 PM at
Tillman Funeral Home & Crematory, 2170 South Military Trail, West Palm Beach, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to ​The American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be sent to Tony's daughter, Regina Rice, at 388 Seacliff Street, Islip Terrace NY 11752

or at the funeral home website: https://www.tillmanfuneralhome.com/obituaries/anthony-vona

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Vona family. May Tony Rest in Peace.

These are late postings as I was out of town last week seeing my brother Dominick who was in the VA Hospital in Madison WI.   Sadly, he passed away on March 30th, the day after Viet Nam Veteran's Day. He was a veteran from that period.    

To all those who responded to me by emails or texts with their condolences and thoughtful prayers on the passing of my brother last week, I send my deepest appreciation to all and so very proud to be part of the "Transit Family" where such happenings may occur and the response is outstanding. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. - Tony

 LIFETIME MEMBER RET. SGT. GEORGE NESBITT BENJAMIN
6/13/1932 - 03/22/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. Sgt. George Nesbitt Benjamin on the evening of Friday, March 22. 2024. He was 91 years old. George was appointed to the Transit Police on May 1, 1959 and retired July 1, 1986.

Funeral services took place on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 with burial at Calverton Veterans Cemetery, Wading River, NY 11792

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Jean and the Benjamin family. May George Rest in Peace. 

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. PAUL MOLNOSKI
11/6/1941 – 1/15/2024

Lou received an email from Paul’s wife Ann to opt out of receiving his emails and that Paul passed on 1/15/24 . No other details were given.

Paul was appointed to NYCTPD August 1, 1966 and retired August 28, 1986.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website Obituary of Paul Molnoski | Clark Associates Funeral Home

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Ann and the Molnoski family. May Paul Rest in Peace.

We received an email from Joe's wife, Barbara, that he had passed away.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JOSEPH PIZZO
12/3/1942 - 3/29/2024

There was a private family service at the gravesite on Friday, April 5th.

Condolences may be sent to his wife, Barbara, at bpizzo@ptd.net or to PO Box 387, Paupack PA 18451

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Barbara and the Pizzo family. May Joseph Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary information received from Luca Scarangello Scarangelloluca22@gmail.com

I am saddened to report the passing of Ret. Lt. Angelo Gioia. Angelo passed on Tuesday night 3/26. We pray the love for the lost is forever carried in our memory. Angelo was appointed to to NYCTPD December 1, 1980 and retired from NYPD, date unknown.

Services took place on April 1st & 2nd.

View obituary on the FH web page Obituary of Angelo Gioia | Marine Park Funeral Home Inc serving Bro... (marineparkfh.com)

Our deepest condolences and sympathies go out to his wife Audrey and the rest of Angelo’s family. May he Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary information was received from Mike Fanning hntsgt@gmail.com

RET. P.O. JOHN SALVESEN
2/22/59 – 3/26/2024

 I am saddened to pass along information that Ret. P.O. John Salvesen died following a battle with cancer. I worked with John in the Task Force and the Bus Squad. He was a good guy & sorry to hear that he left us too soon. John was appointed to NYCTPD January 6, 1984 and retired from NYPD, date unknown

Services took place on March 29th. 
 
Tribute wall can be viewed on the Funeral Home web page below
https://osheafuneral.com/tribute/details/6764/John-Salvesen/obituary.html#tribute-start

 Our deepest condolences and sympathies go out to the Salveson family. May John Rest in Peace.  

Obituary information received from Bill Wood woody-s@tampabay.rr.com

 We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Det. Alfred 'Al' Leskie on March 19th at the age of 80 years.
Al was appointed to the Transit Police on July 13, 1990 and retired from NYPD - date unknown.

There will be no services and Al will be cremated.

Condolences can be sent to Al’s wife Deborah Leslie. 3721 Arcade Trail Apt 413 Lutz, FL 33548. 
      
Our deepest condolences and sympathies go out to the Leslie family. May Alfred Rest in Peace.                 

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net obituary information was received from Mike Schablin mws652@gmail.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of our association member, Ret. Sgt. Theodore "Teddy" Fisher Jr. on March 11th at the age of 62 years. Teddy was appointed to NYCTPD 10/20/81 and retired from NYPD on 11/01/2001.

(Lou-) I never worked with him but got to know him from the NY reunions at Antun’s in Queens every November. He was a gentleman and a real nice guy. Was always pleasant to be in his company. Teddy predeceased his father “Teddy” who was also a Transit P.O. who retired in 1986. I am told that he was assigned to the NYPD Range. May Teddy “Rest in Peace.”

Services were held on March 14th & 15th.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website: www.nhpfh.com/post/theodore-c-fisher

Our deepest condolences to his wife, Laura, his father, Ted Sr., and the Fisher family. May Teddy Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Information received from George Butler via Marilyn Scahill-Nieves houseonwaterms@gmail.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Frederick Walker on March 1st, at the age of 78 years. Frederick was appointed to NYCTPD 2/16/1970 and retired 7/16/1992. He worked in District 3, City Wide Anti-Crime and AIU.

Services & funeral took place on March 20th
 
Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Walker family. May Freddie “Rest in Peace.”

From Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com as received from Ben Patton ben2736@aol.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Clarence B. Williams on February 20th at the age of 93 years. He had fallen two times. Clarence was appointed to the Transit Police on March 15, 1959, and retired July 4, 1980. He was last assigned to District 12.

Funeral services took place on March 8th & 9th.

Condolences may be sent to his wife, Mildred, at 243 Marius Ct. St. Augustine FL 32086-7036 or contacted at (904) 797-5457

Our deepest condolences to Mildred and the Williams family. May Clarence Rest in Peace.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Thomas Bogan, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at the age of 87 years. Tom was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired March 25, 1986. He had worked in District 34 for many years with Frank Crisa and Tony Lomanto.

Funeral services took place on February 23rd & 24th.

Condolences may be sent to his wife, Joan, at 73 MURRAY HILL TER, Marlboro NJ 07746-1750 or
the funeral home website https://www.oldbridgefh.com/obituaries/Thomas-Bogan/#!/TributeWall

RET. P.O. KEVIN MILLER
02/28/1956 - 02/17/2024

Funeral services took place on February 24th.

Our deepest condolences to the Bogan and Miller families. May their departed loved ones Rest in Peace.

Vinny Rapacciulo passed away Friday night, not too long after Bobby Valentino, Fred Ametrano, Tony Magliano, and Tony Lomanto went to visit him earlier in the day at the nursing home where he was in hospice. Bobby received the sad news later that evening.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. SGT. VINCENT  A. "VINNY" RAPACCIUOLO
01/29/1933 - 02/16/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Vincent A. "Vinny" Rapacciuolo, on February 16th, at the age of 91 years after a long illness.

Vinnny was appointed to the Transit Police on July 6, 1964 and retired December 31, 1994. He had been working in Headquarters for many years. He had been the former President of the Transit Police Columbia Association and was on the board of the Long Island Shields. Vinny was also on the Executive Board of the Transit Police SBA.

Funeral services: took place on February 21st & 22nd.

Condolences may be sent to is daughter, Elizabeth Dara, at 4 REDWOOD CT, SELDEN NY 11784-3909
or at the funeral home website when it gets posted:  https://wantaghfuneralhome.com/

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Rapacciuolo family. May Vinny Rest in Peace.

Jim Rifino called us this morning with this very sad notice

Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. James Rifino, called us this morning to sadly inform us that his son, Joseph, had passed away on Thursday, February 14th. He was 47 years old and suffered from brain cancer.

Services took place on February 18th and 19th.

The obituary can be viewed at the funeral home website https://www.cargainfuneralhomes.com/obituary/joseph-rifino

Condolences may be sent to Jim and his wife, Roseanne, at james.rifino@icloud.com or
19 Lees Way, Hopewell Junction NY 12533

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Rifino family. May their son, Joseph, Rest in Peace.

From President Valentino

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of another "legend of the Transit Police",
Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Alfio Abate, on December 2nd, at the age of 95 years.

Al was appointed to the Transit Police on June 1, 1965 and retired January 31, 1987. His last assignment was in the Print Shop at 370 Jay Street HQ printing up all the orders and transfers of the Department.

Burial took place on Thursday December 7th, 2023 at Brigadier William C. Doyle Veteran’s Cemetery in Arneytown.

The funeral details can be viewed at https://www.maxwellfuneralhome.com/obituaries/alfio-abate

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to thre Abate family. May Al Rest in Peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. GEORGE GUNN
 5/23/42 – 2/3/2024

Services took place on February 6th & 7th.

View his obituary on the funeral home webpage:
George Gunn Obituary - Perry Funeral Home, Inc. - 2024 (legacy.com)

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gunn family. May George Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. FLOYD HOLLOWAY

FORMER 1ST VP OF THE TRANSIT POLICE PBA
ADVISOR TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE RETIREES ASSOCIATION
4/18/1940 – 1/28/2024

We deeply regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of a true legend in the Transit Police Department,
Lifetime Member Retired P.O. Floyd Holloway, our Advisor to the President and former 1st Vice-President of the Transit Police PBA, on January 28th, at the age of 83 years after a long illness.

From Lou Hollander:

It saddens me to report the passing of Floyd. He was a gentleman amongst gentlemen the nicest man you could every meet. I had known Floyd since I came on the job in 1969 and had the privilege of working with him briefly as a PBA Delegate under the Maye administration and then as a delegate under the McKechnie administration up until the time I retired. I learned a lot from Floyd. And he was
a legend within the TPD and other Police agencies. Many of our benefits were established because of his efforts. Floyd was appointed to the NYCTPD 11/6/1964 and retired 1/22/1991. My condolences to his wife Marge and the Floyd family. May Floyd “Rest in Peace”

Condolences can be sent to Marge and family at 251 Hendrickson Ln. West Grove PA 19390.

You can visit the Funeral Home web page to view Floyds obituary and leave condolences
https://www.raynordandrea.com/obituary/Floyd-Holloway

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:  NYC PBA Widows and Children's Fund, Feeding America, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Services took place on Thursday and Friday, February 1st & 2nd. The link for the live stream will be at the bottom of the page of the obituary.

BILL McKECHNIE

It is with an extremely heavy heart and great remorse that I write to the report of the death of my dear friend and colleague, former Transit PBA 1st Vice President Floyd Holloway, who passed away at 5:23 AM Sunday January 28th. Floyd leaves behind his wife Marge, his son Floyd Jr. and his two daughters Sheryl and Nicole and grandchildren.

Floyds death was not unexpected as he had been in the hospital for several weeks and a few days ago he was transferred to hospice care.
Before being transferred to hospice, Floyd and I would speak for a short time three to four times a week. Floyd, while gravely ill, never lost his sense of humor. I was advised by his daughter, Sheryl, that they were concerned that he was not eating. When I spoke to him, I said "What’s this I hear you’re not eating?" I went on to say when we worked together, and I took you out to lunch or dinner and picked up the tab you ate everything and then some! Floyd responded with a little laugh and said, “Well, I never wanted to pass up on a free meal.” That laugh coming from him made my day!

Floyd, before joining the Transit Police, was honorably discharged from the US Army. He joined the Transit Police Dept. on Nov.6, 1964. It wasn’t too long after that he was elected to a position on the TPBA board and went on to become the longest serving executive board member in the history of the TPBA. For those who knew Floyd, you know that his length of service was no accident. His was dedicated to serving the men and women he represented. Floyd's fame, if you will, came as our legislative Chairman. First, I believe he had the longest tenure of any other legislative representative in police service.

Floyd was responsible for so many law enforcement bills becoming law that it would be foolish to try and list them all. I would ,however, like to point out one of his most difficult and greatest achievements, that being the Transit Police Variable Supplement Bill. I was fortunate to work with Floyd on this bill and I would be remiss if I didn’t add that at the time of its passing, it was the most consistently vetoed bill, other than the Death Penalty in the history of the New York State Legislature. I say without fear of contradiction, that without Floyd at the helm of our legislative efforts, that bill would never have been signed into law. Because of those bills passing, many members of the Transit Police enjoy significantly enhanced retirement benefits.

Floyds legislative skills were recognized in New York City and beyond. He voluntarily served as a representative with the State Police Conference as well as a rep to the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO), who, I am told, will be opening their meeting today with a dedication to Floyd.

I could go and on with deserved accolades, but most know of Floyd’s service and reputation. They are indeed unparalleled. Men like him do not come along often. Floyd’s work caused him to be away from his family for extended periods of time during the legislative session. His wife and children mentioned above deserve our appreciation for sharing Floyd with us.

In closing, Rest in Peace my dear friend. May you be in Heaven in God’s loving arms an hour before the Devil even knows you passed!

DEO FASOLINO

Floyd's passing away leaves a large void in me. Losing Joe Carney and Floyd in such a short time is devastating. The following is an item I wrote about Floyd a while ago. I first met Floyd in1968. I was a TPBA delegate from Dist. 20 and Floyd was a Trustee from Dist.1. Sometime that year, Floyd asked me if I wanted to attend a meeting regarding the next TPBA election. I went and there were many familiar Delegate faces. They were putting together a ticket to run against the current PBA board.

I was asked to run for Recording Secretary, and I accepted. The ticket was handed to me by John Maye consisting of Julie Aschendorf, Floyd Holloway, Joe Cirrincione, Joe Carney, and Ed Burke. There were also Trustees from each Borough and HQ. We won.

I was soon to learn this was not a walk in the park. We had the 8P program. The excusal quote was very low. The cops were unhappy. Classes were graduating and cops were leaving to City, Fire, and anything else but Transit. I was young and full of piss and vinegar many times. I needed to be talked down. Thank God Floyd was there. He was always my calming factor. Julie was older than all of us and hated the bosses. He left and Floyd became 1st. VP. We went through a lot of changes in those years, bringing on Tom Grasso, Jim Groark, Dennis Ahern, John Mcloughin and Ken Chiulli.

Through all these changes, there was always Floyd with his calm voice and demeanor. Many times, when things were not going good and the shit hit the fan, I would reach out to Floyd. He always found a way to help me get over it. For me to go into all the times Floyd was the right person for me, at the right time, I could write forever. He always had the right words to get us all on the right path. I was honored to accept his award at the recent Black Patch affair. I do not know if Floyd ever realized the large impact he had on helping me grow in those 10 years we worked together. One of the best decisions I ever made in my life was saying yes at that meeting so many years ago. Now Floyd joins the rest of the John Maye team that has passed. Rest easy my Friend.

TONY LOMANTO

What words can accurately describe the person of Floyd Holloway, a great Transit Police legend.
I first met Floyd when I went in for a midnight tour in District 1, the same day I graduated from the Academy in April 1966. Floyd immediately knew that I, and a few others, were the “new kids on the block” and he went out of his way to explain how the job operates and what and where everything was located. He was always there to help anyone who needed it, and there were many.

Floyd carried that knowledge to the Executive Board of the Transit PBA where, for many years, he was the 1st VP and Legislative Director. Many pieces of legislation were produced with Floyd’s initiative and perseverance that affected many in the law enforcement field.

In later years, his knowledge of Albany led him to the Police Conference of New York as their Legislative Director and accomplishing more benefits. Floyd still helped his fellow Transit retirees when he became the Association’s Special Advisor to the President and was on the Legislation Committee.

He is now in the company of another legend, Joseph Carney. They should be having some interesting conversations.
My deepest condolences to Marge and their family. May Floyd “Rest in Peace.”

KEN CHIULLI

Floyd Holloway, my friend and TPBA legend, was the First Vice President of the TPBA and led the legislative agenda in Albany and NYC. Floyd’s expertise in this area successfully kept police officers benefits intact. Floyd’s demeanor and knowledge of how Albany worked was second to none. After retirement, Floyd stayed in Albany assisting police and corrections officers with their benefit agenda. Floyd will sorely be missed.

DENNIS AHERN

Floyd was a strong and successful voice for the Transit Police Officers in Albany. He was one of the most trustworthy and respected men I have ever encountered. He was also a great friend and a great mentor and will be greatly missed.

TONY PIAZZA

A friend and a hero has passed. Yes, Floyd Holloway was a unique person with many qualities we can all admire and respect. One in particular exemplifies a distinguishing quality in Floyd's ability to have argued in a calm and collective manner. That was our legislative bargained benefits he brought to fruition with our state representatives. To this point, the Variable Supplements Fund was such that and more. In his retirement, Floyd became Legislative Director / Chairman for the Association of PBA's for many years, presently The Police Conference of New York. Further into retirement, he became Legislative Director / Chairman Emeritus. Later, Floyd joined our Retiree Association's Legislative Committee to assist us with documentation and true facts to advance our Albany legislation to correct the injustices of our VSF. It was in 7/24/92 when the City of New York, under then Mayor Guiliani, introduced and succeeded in passing, legislation to diminish our parity in the VSF with respect to that of the NYCPD.
Floyd has always said to me: “It took us 17 years to achieve the VSF. Don't give up the fight to correct the injustice.”
Now Floyd has been called to a greater task in the house of our Lord. My tears are my own, my prayers go to him, my friend, my mentor, our hero. Rest in peace.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Marge, their children and families on Floyd's passing. May Floyd Rest in Peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. VINCENT CANNIZZARO
9/24/1941 - 01/27/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Det.. Vincent Cannizzaro, on January 27th at the age of 82 years. Vincent was appointed to the Transit Police on June 21, 1965 and retired April 12, 1986.

From the local newspaper in Middle Village, NY:

Vincent Cannizzaro, who spent 19 seasons as head coach of the women’s basketball team at Christ The King High School in Middle Village, died Saturday at the age of 82 following a battle with cancer.

During his time as head coach from 1981-1999, Cannizzaro earned 456 wins. Under his leadership, the team won 12 New York State Catholic High School championships, as well as 10 consecutive New York State Federation titles. There was a stretch where the team won 120 straight league games. USA Today crowned Christ The King national champions three times under his leadership.

He also coached and developed future WNBA Hall of Famer Chamique Holdsclaw and future WNBA Hall of Famer Sue Bird.

Services took place on Feb. 1st, with a funeral mass on Feb. 2nd.

Condolences may be sent to Carol at 7503 69th Road, Middle Village NY 11379 or left at the funeral home website:
https://cassesefuneralhome.com/tribute/details/969/Vincent-Cannizzaro/obituary.html#tribute-start

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Carol, and the Cannizzaro family. May Vincent Rest in Peace.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of another "legend" in the NYC Transit Police Department,
Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Joseph Carney, on January 23rd at the age of 83 years. Joe was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965, and vested on May 1, 1981. He was the Financial Secretary of the Transit PBA board under Presidents John Maye and Bill McKechnie.

He was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Black Patch Group affair in May 2023.

The photo was taken at the NY Reunion in November 2018.

Condolences may be sent to Joe's wife, Margaret at maggiecarney@msn.com or 12 BASKET LN, HICKSVILLE NY 11801-4531 or on the funeral home website: Tribute for Joseph M Carney | Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Homes (thomasfdaltonfuneralhomes.com)

Funeral services took place on January 26th & 27th

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Margaret and the Carney family. May Joseph Rest in Peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET.P.O. DAVID GINSBERG
12/27/1937 – 1/21/2024

I was told by Marty that Dave passed after a brief illness. I knew Dave when he worked in the Print shop with Marty. I was his PBA Delegate. He was a nice great guy and would help you out anytime. If I am not mistaken, Dave designed The Department Medal of Honor and Combat Medal. I am not sure about the other Dept. Medals. I enjoyed seeing him at many of the Transit Police Florida Reunion’s.

David was appointed to the Transit Police on May 12, 1969 and retired from NYPD on October 1, 2001.

There will not be any services for Dave. May he “Rest in Peace”

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Ginsberg family. May David Rest in Peace.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Joseph Nuszer on September 12, 2012 at the age of 85 years.

Our mail to Joseph Nuszer was returned as "Unable to Forward." When we contacted his son, Joseph, we were informed that his father died in 2012. We were never informed of his passing, and it was strange that in those following years, we never had any mail returned.

Joseph was appointed to the Transit Police on May 18, 1955 and retired May 1, 1977.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Nuszer family. May Joseph Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. TERRENCE “TERRY” BENSON
8/19/1936 – 1/9/2024

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Det. Terrence "Terry" Benson on January 9th, at the age of 87 years. Terry was appointed to NYCTPD 12/1/1965 and retired 3/19/1993.

Services took place on January 18th. Burial with military honors at Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 4069 Howlett Hill Rd, Syracuse, NY 13215.

 You can view his obituary and sign tribute book on funeral home web page:
https://edwardjryanandson.com/tribute/details/2313/Terrence-Benson/obituary.html

From President Bob Valentino as received from Ret. PO Edwin Jusino ejusino1957@gmail.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Det. Arthur Darryl Pettus on January 12th, at the age of 64 years. Arthur was appointed to the Transit Police on January 29, 1982 and retired from NYPD. He worked District 11, Vandals Squad and the last command, Bronx Robbery Squad.

Funeral services took place on January 19th

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website: https://funeralhomeorlando.net/category/memorials/

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Benson and Pettus families. May the departed loved ones Rest in Peace.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. PO Luis Gonzalez, on December 17, 2023, at the age of 66 years. We received this information as a reply to our recent email that was sent out.

From Lou Hollander's database, we found that Luis was appointed to the Transit Police on January 26, 1988 and retired March 20, 1994.

We have no further information available.

Condolences may be sent to the family at Ginousa2018@hotmail.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gaonzalez family. May Luis rest in peace.

From Frank Crisa fcrisa2886@gmail.com as received from Steve Plescia splescia38@hotmail.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Lt. Daniel J. Rivituso, on January 6th at the age of 86 years. Dan was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired February 15, 1986.

Funeral services took place on January 14 and 15th.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website https://moloneyfh.com/obituary/daniel-j-rivituso/

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Grace and the Rivituso family. May Dan Rest in Peace.

Received from Mike Lavelle mplavelle51@icloud.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Eleanor Walsh, wife of the late Ret. PO Matthew Walsh, on Wednesday, December 27th.

Funeral services took place on January 2nd & 3rd.

In Lieu of flowers donations to John Theissen Children's Foundation, 1492 Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY  11793, In Eleanor's name would be appreciated. Condolences may be left on the funeral home website:
Tribute for Eleanor Walsh | Thomas F. Dalton Funeral Homes (thomasfdaltonfuneralhomes.com)

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Walsh family. May Ellie Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

SON OF RET. P.O. DONALD HARRING

I have been informed by Donald that his son, Karl John Harring, passed away in his home.

Condolences can be sent to Donald at DharringNYCTPD@msn.com May Karl “Rest in Peace”

Funeral Arrangements were held on Saturday, December 30th at Faith Lutheran Church at 4150 Goodlette Road N, Naples, FL 34103. 

If you would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers:
Lambs of Faith Preschool, 4150 Goodlette Road North, Naples, FL 34102 Phone Number: 239-434-5811  www.flcnaples.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Harring family. May their son, Karl, Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net  Obituary information was received from Dominick’s wife Judy DePetrillo.

RET. P.O. DOMINICK DePETRILLO
10-6-1943 – 11/21/2023

Dominick retired 4/28/1977 from the Operations Unit on a disability. Dom’s obituary can be viewed by clicking on this link. https://obituaries.nationalcremation.com/obituaries/hudson-fl/dominick-depetrillo-11549602

Condolences can be sent to Judy at 6044 Country Ridge Ln. New Port Richey FL 34655 or email Judydepetrillo@yahoo.com

May Dominick “Rest in Peace”

I worked with Dominick in the O/U in the late '60s. I believe he was appointed to the Transit Police in 1965. He worked the old teletype and taught me how to operate it. He was a good person who never stopped to help another officer. - Our deepest condolences to Judy and the DePetrillo family. May Dominick Rest in Peace. - Tony

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary Information received from Bruce’s daughter Jennifer Sheshene jsheshene33@gmail.com

RET. P.O. CLINTON 'BRUCE' LIST
12/17/1941 – 11/15/2023

Bruce was appointed to NYCTPD 12/1/1965 and retired 10/13/1987.

His obituary can be viewed at https://ajcunninghamfh.com/tribute/details/2983/C-Bruce-List/obituary.html

Condolences can be sent to Jennifer at the above email address. May Bruce “Rest in Peace”

MOTHER OF MEMBER RET. P.O. EDDIE CASSAR

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. William G. McNaughton, on December 7th, at the age of 68 years. He was appointed to the Transit Police on July 7, 1985. His son, Active NYPD P.O. James D. McNaughton, was killed in action in Iraq in August, 2005.

Services took place on December 12th & 13th with burial in Calverton National Cemetery

View Obituary on Funeral Home Web https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/centereach-ny/william-mcnaughton-11573421

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the James McNaughton Foundation. www.jimmymcnaughton.com

December 3, 2023         LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. WILLIAM JUDGE, RET. P.O. EUGENE GOODISON and
                                                              RET. P.O. LOUIS VALENTE (late notice)

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. WILLIAM JUDGE

6/24/1940 - 11/30/2023

We received this sad news from Bill's wife, Frances.

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. William Judge on Thursday, November 30th, at the age of 83 years. Bill had been ill for several months and was in hospice with stage 4 cancer at the time of his death.

Bill was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965, and retired January 18,  1986. He had worked in District 34 for many years.

A Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday, December 7th, at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church,  5411 Amboy Rd, Staten Island,

Condolences may be sent to Frances at franjudge532@gmail.com  

We received this sad news from Ret. Lt. Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com   Information received from Ret. P.O. Teddy Shelto.

RET. P.O. EUGENE GOODISON

5/31/1937 - 11/28/2023

With sadness, we inform you of the passing of Ret. P.O. Eugene Goodison on 11/28/23. Eugene broke his hip following a fall and died of complications during his recovery.

Funeral services took place on Saturday 12/9/23 at the New Shiloh Christion Center, 3900 Sarno Rd. Melbourne, Fl. 32934

Condolences can be sent to his wife: Gloria Goodison 5034 Pinot St. Viera, Fl. 32955

Eugene was 86 years old at the time of his passing. Unfortunately, we do not have his appointment or retirement dates available for him.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Louis’ son-in-law Michael Teegarden

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Louis Valente on October 23rd, at the age of 78 years.

Louis was appointed to NYCTPD 12/1/1965 and retired 3/3/1977. Louis’ obituary can be viewed on Funeral home web page:
Louis Valente Obituary (1944 - 2023-10-23) - Aleppo Township/sewickley, PA - Triblive Online Only (legacy.com)

May Louis “Rest in Peace”

Our deepest condolences to the Judge, Goodison and Valente families. May their deceased loved ones Rest in Peace.