LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. RUDOLPH HYMAN
1/1/1945 - 10/2019

Due to mail being returned, and with help from Billy McMillen, we sadly heard from Rudy's daughter, Tylise, that
Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Rudolph Hyman had passed away in October of 2019 from pancreatic cancer.

Rudolph was appointed to the Transit Police on June 23, 1968 and retired December 9, 1990.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his daughter, Tylise, and the Hyman family. May Rudolph Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

I believe Bernie worked in District 20. I didn’t know Bernie from the JOB, but got to know him at the FL reunions,  He was a real nice guy.  He and his wife, Marilyn, used to attend several the Florida reunions.  The above photo was from the 2009 reunion.  Bernie was a Lifetime member of the Retiree’s Association.  May he “Rest in Peace”

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. BERNHARD "BERNIE" GEIGER
5/19/1940 – 4/5/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Bernhard Geiger, on April 5th, at the age of 80 years. Bernie was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired July 5, 1986.

Services were held on April 8th in Lyman, SC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Home Office, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website: https://www.livingwatersfh.com/obituaries/Bernhard-Geiger/#!/TributeWall

Our deepest condolences to his wife, Marilyn, and the Geiger family. May he Rest in Peace.

We received an email today from Ed's wife, Maureen, with the sad news.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. EDWARD MOYNIHAN
9-4-1947 - 4/2/2021

We regret to inform our members of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Edward Moynihan, on Friday, April 2nd, at the age of 73 years. Ed was suffering from cancer because of exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War.

Ed was appointed to the Transit Police on March 23, 1970 and retired October 1, 1991. He had been on the board of the Transit Police PBA.

Ed was cremated and a celebration of life will take place later this year both in Florida and New York.  In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to Wounded Warriors.

Condolences may be sent to Maureen at mpelkowski@mpelkowski.com or left at website www.edgleycremationservices.com  

Our deepest condolences to Maureen and the Moynihan families. May he Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Tony Ramirez. Tony684@hvc.rr.com

RET. P.O. LOUIS P. VAZQUEZ
11/8/1943 - 4/2/2021

It is with great sadness that I report the passing of our Brother in Blue, Ret. P.O.Louis Vazquez. Lou passed at 12:36 AM this morning (4-2-2021) after battling multiple strokes. Lou’s shield #2827 he was appointed to the NYCTPD on 5/1/1965 and he worked in the old Transit District 4 District 10 and District 12. . He’s being cremated and the family will be casting his ashes to sea in June on what would have been their sixtieth wedding anniversary.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Jude’s Children’s Foundation will be greatly appreciated. 

The website is https://tinyurl.com/wy4z64av

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Vazquez family. May Louis Rest in Peace.

Received from Charles Papio charles.papio1946@gmail.com

RET. SGT. FRANK LAUDATI
4/27/1950 - 3/24/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Sgt. Frank Laudati, on March 24th at the age of 70 years.
Frank was appointed to the Transit Police on October 3rd, 1973 and retired in 1996.

Visitation
Tuesday, March 30, 2021 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc.
1525 Burlingham Rd
Pine Bush, NY
845-744-6008

Service
Wednesday, March 31, 2021 from 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Church of the Infant Saviour
22 Holland Ave
Pine Bush, NY
845-744-2391

Burial at 11:45 am - 12:15 pm
Orange County Veterans Cemetery
111 Craigville Road
Goshen , NY
845-291-2465

Condolences may be left at the funeral home: https://wmgaganfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/1008/Frank-Laudati/obituary.html

Our deepest condolences to the Laudati family. May Frank Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Bob Neyland toget2rob@yahoo.com

RET. P.O. KENNETH KRAMER
6/11/1953 – 3/19/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Kenneth Kramer on Friday, March 19th, at the age of 67 years. Ken was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1980 and retired from NYPD on August 31, 1999,

Services will be at:
FERO Funeral Home
5955 N Lecanto Highway
Beverly Hills Florida 34465
(352) 746-4551

Visitation on March 22nd
2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00

Funeral service on March 23rd at 12:00 Noon, followed by burial

Here is a link to Ken’s obituary where condolences may be left.
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/beverly-hills-fl/kenneth-kramer-10114199

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Kathleen, and the Kramer family. May Ken Rest in Peace.

RET. SGT. JOHN MALONE
8/1/1942 - 3/9/2021

Information from Pres. Lanning mikedor2@aol.com as received from John Lozinski

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. FRED J. NICKE
9/9/1936 - 03/11/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Fred J. Nicke, on March 11th, at the age of 84 years. Fred had COPD and recently developed pneumonia was hospitalized but was brought back home for hospice. His remains were cremated.
Fred was appointed to the Transit Police on November 9, 1964 and retired July 3, 1985.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, March 22nd at 11:00 AM at St. James Church in Port Richey, FL.

Condolences may be left here:  https://www.echovita.com/us/obituaries/fl/port-richey/fred-j-nicke-jr-12443099

Our deepest condolences to his wife, Patricia, and the Nicke family. May he Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. SGT. JOSE ELICIER
2/12/1941 - 3/1/2021

We regret to inform our fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Sgt. Jose Elicier, on March 1st, 2021 at the age of 80 years.

Jose was appointed to the Transit Police on February 3, 1968 and rertired March 24, 1993.

Funeral services at the Peter Jarema Funeral Home, 129 East 7th St., NYC on
Monday, March 8th from 2-9 PM

His next of kin is his wife, Lucia.

We received this sad information from Tony Licciardello microck123@aol.com

RET. P.O. CLEMENCE 'MIKE' ZALOGA
8/22/1940 - 3/2/2021

We regret to inform our fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Clemence 'Mike' Zaloga, on March 2nd, 2021, at the age of 80 years.
He nad been hospitalized for cancer that he had been suffering from for a long time.
Mike was appointed to the Transit Police on June 21, 1965 and retired October 21, 1985. He had been assigned to CWPS in District 34 where I worked with him while assigned to D-34 Traffic Unit.

Services are being held at the Mangano Funeral Home, 1701 Deer Park Rd, Deer Park NY
Sunday, March 7th from 2-4:30 PM

Funeral Mass on Monday, March 8th at 10:15AM at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church
125 Half Hollow Rd., Deer Park NY

His next of kin is his wife, Camille, and their sons and daughters.

In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. A Gift Fund has been established in his name.

https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/GiftFunds/GiftFunds?px=6945198&pg=personal&fr_id=39300

Condolences may ne left at the funeral home website:
https://www.manganofh.com/obituaries/Clemence-Mike-Zaloga?obId=20139365#/obituaryInfo

Our deepest condolences to the Elicier and Zaloga families. May the deceased loved ones Rest in Peace.

March 6, 2021                      LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. STANLEY SURDOW and  HIS WIFE, GLORIA

We received this sad information from Pete Yasinosky bigdaddyyaz1@msn.com

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Stanley Surdow, on March 4th at the age of 84 years from COVID illness. Sadly, his wife, Gloria, became ill (cause unknown) and passed away on February 17th.

Stan was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965, and retired July 1, 1977.

There will be a viewing on Monday, March 8th from 4-8 PM at
Forrester Maher Funeral Home, 998 Portion Road, Ronkonkoma NY 1-631-732-7832

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website: https://forrestermaherfuneralhome.com/gloria-stanley-surdow/

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Surdow family. May Gloria & Stan Rest in Peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. VINCENT GAHREN
5/14/1935 - 11/03/2018

We received a phone call today from the law firm that was handling the estate of Ret. P.O. Vincent Gahren. Our newsletter had been sent to the address on file which happened to be his lawyer's office and the lawyer informed us that Vincent had passed away on November 3, 2018.

Vincent was appointed to the Transit Police on Februray 2, 1968 and retired July 1, 1989. We have no next of kin.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. JOSEPH SEVA
4/15/1969 - 2/25/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Joseph Seva on February 25th, at the age of 51 years.

Services were held on March 2nd. His next of kin is his mother, Mary Seva.

You can leave condolences on the funeral home web page Joseph Seva Jr. Obituary, Long Beach, New York (jordanfh.com)


Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gahren and Seva families. May Vincent and Joseph “Rest in Peace”

Sadly, we just received this information from Richard

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Patricia Kessler, wife of member Ret.. P.O. Richard Kessler, on January 28th, 2021.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website:  https://branchfh.com/obits/patricia-a-kessler/

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Kessler family. May Patricia Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander  keystonecop1@verizon.net

FORMER P.O. ALPHONSE “AL" IANNACONE
1947 – 2/15/21

I have been informed by Bob Ballard, HAWK726@aol.com that a friend informed him of Al’s passing.  Bob was in the military with Al. He was appointed to NYCTPD 11/23/70.

You can read Al’s obituary and funeral arrangements on the funeral home web page https://tinyurl.com/sv5wk67o  where you can also leave condolences.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Iannacone family. May Al Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD. Richard worked in District 4. After being in contact with the Funeral Home, I learned that Richie’s wife predeceased him on January 23rd, 2021. 

LIFETIME MEMBER RET SGT. RICHARD ANZALONE
5/26/1945 - 2/10/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Richard Anzalone. Richard was appointed to the Transit Police on February 3, 1968 and retired February 16, 1990.

Richard's next of kin is his son, Richard.

A viewing will be held at William Law Funeral Home, 1 Jerusalem Ave., Massapequa NY 11758
Wednesday, February 17th from 2-4PM and 7-9PM

Funeral Mass on Thursday, February 18th at 10:45AM
St. Raphael RC Church, 600 Newbridge Rd., East Meadow NY with burial in Pinelawn Memorial Park.

Condolences can be left on the Funeral Home web page
https://williamlawfh.com/tribute/details/676/Richard-Anzalone/condolences.html#content-sta

May Richie & Joann “Rest in Peace in the arms of Jesus, once again united.”

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Richard and the Anzalone family. May Richard and Joann Rest in Peace.

We were sadly informed of this when mail sent to Garland was returned. It was then forwarded to a new address. We received a call from his wife, Cecelia, informing us that Garland had passed away in 2018 from complications of a recent surgery.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. GARLAND ODELL THAMES
9/4/1941 - 04/23/2018

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Garland Odell Thames, on April 23, 2018, at the age of 79 years. Garland was appointed to the Transit Police on February 29, 1968 and retired July 17, 1988.

Condolences may be sent to Cecelia at 18368 S Avenida Arroyo Seco, Green Valley AZ 85614

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Cecelia and the Thames family. May Garland Rest in Peace.

February 4, 2021                     LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. VINCENT "VINNIE" ADORNETTI
                                          (BROTHER OF LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. AL ADORNETTI)
                                         (COUSIN OF LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. FRANK PASTORE)

From Pres. Mike Lanning as received from Vinnie's wife, Theresa.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. VINCENT "VINNIE" ADORNETTI
8/17/1936 - 02/02/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Vincent "Vinnie" Adornetti on February 2nd, at the age of 84 years. Vinnie had been suffering from respiratory problems that led to his passing.
Vinnie was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired July 7, 1986. He had worked many years in District 34.

Vinnie is survived by his wife, Theresa, his son Joseph, his brother, (Lifetime Member Ret. P.O.) Al Adornetti, and two grand-children Alex and Jules and many nieces and nephews. His cousin is Lifetime Member Ret. Det. Frank Pastore.

Funeral services
Visitors will be received at the S.W. Brown & Son Funeral Home, 267 Centre St., Nutley NJ on Friday, February 5, 2021 from 4-7 PM.

The funeral mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 20 Prospect St. in Nutley, on Saturday, February 6, 2021 at 10:00 AM.

The interment will follow at Glendale Cemetery in Bloomfield.

Condolences may be left at the funeral home website www.swbrownandson.com

I worked with Vinnie in Dist.34 for many years. He always had a good laugh and smile. Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Theresa, Al, Frank and the Adornetti & Pastore families. May Vinnie Rest in Peace.                                                

Frank Crisa received this from Ret. Chief John Kavanagh & Michael Murphy

       

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. SGT. LAWRENCE "LARRY" ROSENBERG
6/3/1939 - 02/02/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Lawrence "Larry" Rosenberg, on February 2nd, at Morristown Memorial Hospital in Morristown, NJ, at the age of 81 years. Chief Kavanagh, Frank, and I had worked with Larry for several years in Dist. 34 until he made Sergeant and left for District 30, I believe. The photo above was taken at the last Christmas & Holiday Party we had in 2019.

The family will have a private service for Larry at:

Prout Funeral Home, 370 Bloomfield Ave., Verona, NJ 973-239-2060
Friday, February 5th, between 1-3:00 PM followed by Military Honors at 3 PM. Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Larry's next of kin is his wife, Maureen. Condolences may be left at www.proutfuneralhome.com.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Rosenberg family. May Larry Rest in Peace.

Our thanks to Billy McMillen wmcmil5317@aol.com for investigating this when Ed's mail was recently returned by the Post Office.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. PO EDWARD SULLIVAN
6/21/1944 - 4/17/2019

We regret to inform our fellow members and retirees of the late notice of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Edward Sullivan, on April 17, 2019, at the age of 74 years.
Edward was appointed to the Transit Police on June 21,1965 and retired May 30, 1980. Ed became a Lifetime Member by paying is last required dues in advance.

Attempts to contact his wife, Joanne, were negative.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Sullivan family. May Edward Rest in Peace.

We received this information from Chip Hayes chip1440@lawyer.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. WILLIAM McDONOUGH
2/22/1944 - 1/21/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Det. William McDonough on January 21st, at the age of 76 years. Bill was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired August 3, 1985.

The following are excerpts from the notice at the Funeral Home website: https://www.obrienfuneralhome.com/


William Patrick McDonough, 76, of Spring Lake Heights passed away on Friday, January 22, 2021 at his home in the loving arms of his wife, surrounded by his daughters and grandchildren.

Bill was born and raised in the Washington Heights section of New York City. He proudly served in the United States Navy. Upon his return from the service, he married the love of his life, Linda. He and his wife settled in the Riverdale section of the Bronx where they raised their family. He was a very active parishioner of St. Gabriel's Parish where he helped run the Annual Bazaar and started the Teen Center which provided activities for the youth of the parish. He was a member of the Parish Council, the Men’s Club and the Softball Team. He was a constant fixture at the Girl's basketball games and piled the team into his car for games throughout the city.

Bill had an illustrious 20 year career in the NYTPD where he received many citations, awards and medals. He was a member of the Emerald Society and played the bagpipes for the Emerald Society Warpipe Band. He retired in 1985 as a First Grade Detective. He went on to work for NBC, providing private security for many celebrities, television personalities and dignitaries. He was well known for his walk-on performances on the David Letterman Show and was a proud member of SAG-AFTRA.

Ultimately, Bill answered the call of the sand and ocean and left New York for the Jersey Shore. He became a fixture at the Spring Lake Beach South End. He spent many a happy day at the pool, beach and boardwalk. He was very generous with his time and very thoughtful. He was fondly known as “$2 Bill” for the two-dollar bills he gave to the young kids on the beach. He gifted the Summer Patrolmen St. Michael prayer cards and watched many go on to join the Spring Lake Heights/Spring Lake Police Departments. He was a cherished friend and surrogate uncle and grandfather to children and adults alike, and his absence from the South End will be felt by all.

Bill’s love for his grandchildren filled his years with great joy. He was one of the most influential people in their lives and set a great example of how to be a good and kind person. He made sure they knew some of life's essential skills: the proper way to shake hands; how to treat a lady; how to play games and cards (for money); enjoy a good Hallmark movie; swim and ride waves; and enjoy good times with family. Grandpa always told great jokes and stories, and was usually laughing and smiling. He was a sharp dresser and loved the New York Yankees.

Bill was a devoted and active Friend of Bill’s for over 41 years. During that time, he helped countless individuals navigate difficult and painful times in their lives, and he was a beacon of integrity and strength for all who walked through the door. Bill was a remarkable example of courage, commitment, and the willingness to rely upon a Higher Power – one day at a time.

Bill lived his life with kindness, honesty and loyalty. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. He had a great sense of humor and was a master at telling jokes (often off-color). He was a Class Act and will be deeply missed by all who were lucky enough to have known him.

Surviving is his childhood sweetheart and beloved wife of over 55 years Linda McDonough (nee Burgess), his 2 daughters and their husbands Eleanor and John O’Connor, and Laura and Thomas Fitzmaurice, his grandchildren Ryan O’Connor, Thomas Fitzmaurice, Kathleen Fitzmaurice and Aidan Fitzmaurice, his sister Margaret Harvey, his sister-in- law Dorothy Artola and her husband Al Artola, brother-in-law Michael Sawyer, brother-in-law George Burgess and his wife Sandy Burgess, and many nieces, nephews, godchildren and friends.

Visitation will be on Thursday from 2:00pm to 5:00pm at the O’Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Hwy 35 at New Bedford Rd, Wall followed by a Catholic Funeral Mass on Friday, January 29, 2021 at 10:30am in St. Catharine’s Church, 215 Essex Ave, Spring Lake.

Internment will be private.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Linda and the McDonough family. May Bill Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary information received from Keith’s sister Sharon.

RET. SGT KEITH TREADWAY
10/7/1953 - 12/25/20

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Sgt. Keith Treadway on December 25th, 2020, at the age of 67 years. Keith was appointed to NYCTPD 1/15/83 and retired sometime after the merge from NYPD. 

Condolences can be sent to Sharon at keith.treadway@att.net  May Keith “Rest in Peace”

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Treadway family. May Keith Rest in Peace.

January 26, 2021                                                                  RET. P.O. SEAN TULLO

Received this sad news from Ret. Sgt. Sammy Tullo insunset11220@gmail.com

RET. P.O. SEAN TULLO
11/19/1970 - 01/22/2021

Tony, my cousin, Retired Police Officer Sean Tullo, passed away January 22nd from a previous illness and COVID complications.
Sean was appointed to the Transit Police on August 30,1993, worked in D-34, and retired May, 2014 from the Transit Bureau at 130 Livingston Street.

Viewing:  Colonial Funeral Home 2819 Hylan Blvd S.I. NY 10306
Wednesday 01/27/2021, from 4:00PM to 8:00PM with social distancing practice.

Funeral Mass on Thursday, January 28th at 10:00 AM
St. Charles Catholic Church across the street from funeral home, 200 Penn Ave S.I. NY. 10306.
Interment at Greenwood Cemetery 500 25th St. Bklyn, NY

Condolences can be left on Funeral Home Web Page Sean Tullo Obituary - Staten Island, NY | Colonial Funeral Home www.colonialfuneralhomesi.com

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. P.O. EDWARD “EDDIE” VETTER
10/16/1943-1/20/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Edward "Eddie" Vetter on January 20th, at the age of 77 years.
Eddie was appointed to the Transit Police on December 3, 1968 and retired January 9, 1982.

From Lou:
I have been informed by Peggy, Eddie’s wife that Eddie passed away in his sleep.  He has been fighting cancer for quite a while.  Eddie and I worked together in CSPS Task Force in the mid ‘70’s and in CWAC when it first started. He was a good cop and a stand-up guy.  He and Peggy were regular attendees at the Florida Reunions.  I will miss seeing him at get togethers. Peggy informs me that he will be cremated and will have a Celebration of life up in NY at a future date.   “ Eddie, my friend Rest in peace”.  Condolences can be sent to Peggy at dahlia160@hotmail.com

Lou received this information from Bill Bronson bros07@verizon.net  I believe he was living in Decatur GA when he passed

RET. P.O. FRED WESTBROOK
6/19/1949 - 12/25/20

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Fred Westbrook on December 25th, 2020, at the age of 71 years. Fred was appointed to the Transit Police on June 22, 1970 and retired June 3, 1990.
Fred had worked for a time in D-34 along with Frank Crisa and myself - Tony

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. P.O. GEORGE “SONNY” CHISHOLM
4/19/1939 – 1/16/2021

From Pres.Mike Lanning mikedor2@aol.com - Information received from Mike Yurick's neighbor and close friend who was taking care of him

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. MICHAEL YURICK
10/8/1944 - 12/24/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Michael Yurick on December 24th, 2020, at the age of 76 years. Michael had been taken to the hospital with a non-COVID illness that eventually led to his death.
Mike was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired December 9, 1980.

His next of kin is his brother, Steven, who is residing in a nursing home in Queens.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. ROBERT SPECHT
7/5/1944 - 1/13/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Robert Specht on January 13th, 2021, at the age of 76 years.
Robert was appointed to the Transit Police on October 1, 1973 and retired July 23, 1992.
His next of kin is his wife Donna.

RET. SGT RALPH DEFELICE
12/28/1938 - 1/16/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Sgt. Ralph DeFelice, on January 16th, 2021, at the age of 82 years.
Ralph was appointed to the Transit Police on September 9, 1963 and retired August 11, 1984.

Funeral Services:
Viewing at The Massapequa Funeral Home, 4980 Merrick Rd., Massapequa NY
Friday, January 22nd from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM

Funeral Mass on Saturday, January 23rd at 10:30AM
St. Rose of Lima Church, 2 Bayview Ave., Massapequa NY

Next of kin is his wife, Margarita.

Condolences can be left on funeral home web page Ralph J. DeFelice – Massapequa Funeral Home 

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Yurick, Specht and DeFelice families. May the departed loved ones Rest in Peace.

My wife, Joyce Fay, has just passed from COVID 19.  We have been married 58 years as of this past August

I would like to thank all the wives, husbands, companions, partners, and significant others of these departments.
All of you, including my wife, are one of the reasons we of the police depts. fire depts. paramedics, and nurses, keep going.
You are the ones who keep us strong so we can go out and do our job.

In the 20 years I was on the N.Y.C. Transit Police Dept.. Joyce was always there for me. I hope and pray all of you first responders have that kind of relationship behind you.

Thank You 
John F. Fay

January 8, 2021                LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. HERBERT "HERB" SCHOEN
                                                   RET. P.O.'s PAUL RAGUSA and MARK HARRIS
                                                WIFE OF LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JOHN FAY
          
We received this information from Vinnie Servedio 1kramden@optonline.net

Condolences may be sent to Liesbeth at 8 Brasswood Rd, St. James NY 11780-0134

Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net received this email from Paul’s wife, Francesca. May Paul Rest in Peace

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. INSP. JAMES VACCARO
5/21/36 – 1/3/2021

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Insp. James Vaccaro, on January 3rd, at the age of 84 years.
James was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired April 1, 1995.

There will be a private viewing at The James Romanelli - Stephens Funeral Home at 89-01 Rockaway Blvd, Ozone Park, NY

Funeral Mass on Saturday, January 9th at 9:45 AM at St. Helens Church, 157-10 83rd St., Howard Beach, NY

Next of kin; his wife, Anna

From Lou:
Insp. Vaccaro also had a son, Jimmy, on the job who I worked with in E & S.  Jimmy was promoted to Sgt. at some time after I retired.
Condolences can be sent to Jimmy at nyfinestmgt@aol.com
Jimmy posted the following on Facebook:

I regret to inform our friends & loved ones of the funeral arrangements for our beloved father.  A Great man like Pop deserves a Great send off (& this is not it).  We are determined to have a suitable memorial celebration for dad after this horrendous virus is defeated.  This Saturday morning at 9:45, St. Helen's church will allow public attendance (with 25% social distance restrictions) for anyone that is able to join us.

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Jerry Vohrer gvohrer@gmail.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. ROBERT CORNWELL
2/23/1939 - 12/27/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Robert Cornwell, on December 27th, at the age of 81 years.

From Jerry:
Bob’s friend, Marianne Fallon, called to inform me that Bob passed away on December 27th. at 2020 hrs. at Oak Hill Hospital. Bob suffered a stroke on Christmas Day and was in a coma. He never regained consciousness and his heart gave out. She didn’t know if his family made any arrangements. He will be buried in Bushnell’s National Cemetery in Webster. I will inform you if I receive any further information.
Bob and I worked together in Dist. 20 and the Fare Evasion unit. We attended the ROMEO luncheon this past year in Spring Hill Florida. He will be missed.

From Lou:
I had worked with Bob in the Fare Evasion Unit also. Bob was appointed to NYCTPD 6/21/65 and retired 2/21/85. He was a very well liked, soft spoken guy. He and his friend Marianne had attended a number of Florida Reunions.  The above photo was taken at the 2019 Spring Hill FL, R.O.M.E.O luncheon. My Condolences to Marianne.  May Bob, “Rest in Peace” 

Condolences may be sent to Marianne at 6014 13th Ave., New Port Richey FL, 34653

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Cornwell family and to Marianne on the loss of our Lifetime Member. May Robert Rest in Peace.

We received the following news from Ret. PO Gary Brown

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. PHILIP CALBO
7/18/1934 - 12/13/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Philip Calbo, at the age of 86 years from complications connected with COVID. His wife, Lenore, also had COVID and was just released from the hospital this past Monday, December 21st.

Philip joined the Transit Police on August 1, 1966 and retired January 27, 1982. He worked City Wide Anti-Crime with Frank Crisa in the '70s and had a funny expression of calling anyone younger than he was "Skippy."

Condolences can be sent to Lenore at 480 Halstead Ave, Apt. 5P, Harrison NY 10528-3809

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Lenore and the Calbo family. May Philip Rest in Peace.

We received the following from Alan Berkowitz berky4@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. DOMINICK DATTOMA
10/8/1936 - 12/22/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the sudden passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Dominick Dattoma, on December 22nd, at the age of 84 years. Dominick was a US Navy veteran and was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired February 1, 1978. I believe he worked in District 20.

Arrangements are at The Kraeer Funeral Home 1655 University Drive, Coral Springs, FL on December 27th, with visiting hours from 2-6:00 PM and a Mass on the 28th at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church 1401 Coral Ridge Dr.,Coral Springs, FL.at 10:00 AM

Condolences may be left on the funeral home website: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/coral-springs-fl/dominick-dattoma-9962440

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Dattoma family. May Dominick Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. VICTOR AUGI
12/15/1937 – 12/9/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Victor Augi, on December 9th, at the age of 83 years.

Vic was appointed to the NYCTPD 2/15/1966 and retired 1/22/82.  I knew Vic from working 8 P’s. He worked in Dist. 4A and used to run into him in Coney Island doing train patrol. I didn’t know him well, but the times I was with him he was a nice guy.  He later became VP of the PBA within the Johnny Maye administration.

I have been informed that Vic was living in Florida at the time of his passing.  He inline skated from West Palm Beach to Fort Lauderdale often.  He was also an avid dancer. You can go to the Funeral Home Web Page Victor P. Augi - Branch Funeral Homes www.branchfh.com to leave condolences and there is also a link to watch the funeral service.  May Vic “Rest in Peace”

Services took place on December 13th & 14th in Miller Place, NY, followed by interment in Calverton National Cemetery.

I also worked with Vic, both as a TPBA Delegate, and in later years, in District 34. Vic always had a good thing to say and was always helpfull to his fellow officers - Tony

From Ret. Lt. Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com

RET. P.O. CHARLES WOODLY
4/8/1939 - ???

Charles contacted us to report that Ret. PO Charles Woodly recently passed away. Unfortunately, no further information was available other than his date of birth. We do not have his dates of appointment or retirement. Services were already held.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Augi and Woodley families. May the departed Rest in Peace.

From 1st VP Bob Valentino rvalent558@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. ROBERT "BOBBY" RITTMEYER
6/24/1943 - 12/12/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Robert "Bobby" Rittmeyer on December 12th, at the age of 77 years, from an apparent heart attack.

Bobby was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired January 1, 1985. He was very active in sports during his time on the job and in retirement with the Bowling League. He was a recipient of numerous sports awards and was a member of the Transit Police Sports Hall of Fame.

The family will hold a family only ceremony on Monday, December 13th, and a Celebration of Life sometime in June, 2021

Bob is survived by his daughter, Christine O'Gara and family. Condolences may be sent to her at 336 Lincoln Blvd., Hauppauge NY 11788-4066

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the O'Gara family. May Bobby Rest in Peace.

We received the following sad news from Al Pelliccia cappermt@gmail.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. THOMAS "TOMMY" GRASSO
12/20/1942 - 12/10/2020

We regret to inform our fellow members and retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Thomas "Tommy" Grasso, on December 10th. Tom had been suffering from dementia and other physical illnesses and was taken home 2 weeks ago from the nursing home where he was a patient.
Tom was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired January 11, 1981. He had been the 2nd Vice-President on the Executive Board of the Transit Police PBA during the presidency of Johnny Maye.

We last saw him at the March meeting but Tom was present at almost every meeting of the Retirees Association. He will be missed.

Funeral services will take place on Sunday, December 13th, at The Massapequa Funeral Home, South Chapel, located at 4980 Merrick Road, Massapequa Park NY
from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM. There will be a service at the funeral home and burial will be at Calverton National Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to Tom's wife, Virginia, at 3861 Hickory Street, Seaford NY 11783

Condolences can be posted on Funeral Home web Page https://massapequafuneralhome.com/obituary/thomas-grasso/

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net information from Jay Doherty diamondjoe14@aol.com

RET. DET. JOSEPH HANNIGAN
6/1/1960 – 12/5/2020
 

Retired Det. Joe Hannigan lost his battle with prostate cancer on December 5, 2020. He had been sick for quite some time and was at home on hospice care when he passed. Joe was appointed to the Transit Police on October 20, 1981 and retired from NYPD after the merge. He died from 9/11 related cancer which he never put a claim in for.   At the time of his passing he was the Chief of Dallas College El Centro Campus Police.

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. LT. ULYSSES WOODS
7/24/1924 – 11/24/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Lt. Ulysses Woods, on November 24th, at athe age of 96 years. Ulysses was appointed to the Transit Police on April 5, 1955 and retired March 6, 1985.

A viewing and services took place on December 4th followed by burial at Calverton National Cemetery.

Our deepest condolences to his wife, Cassandra, and the Woods family. May he Rest in Peace.

RET. P.O. DONALD MCCAIN
2/22/1933 - 11/30/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Donald McCain, on November 30th, at the age of 87 years.
Donald was appointed to the Transit Police on Jan. 14, 1963 and retired February 15, 1983

Services will take place on Monday, December 7th at Volk Leber Funeral Home, 789 Teaneck Rd., Teaneck NJ
Viewing from 9 to 11 AM followed by services.

Condolences can be posted on Funeral Home web page Donald McCain Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information (volkleberfuneralhome.com) 

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Dolores and the McCain family. May he Rest in Peace. 

Lou received this obituary information from Jim O’Connell scooterez2@gmail.com 

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. LT. NICHOLAS SCIARABBA
11/18/43 – 12/1/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Lt. Nicholas Sciarabba, on December 1st, at the age of 77 years. Nick was appointed to the Transit Police on June 1,1966 and retired October 23rd, 1994. 

A Memorial Visitation will be held on December 7, 2020 at 12:00 PM– 2:00 PM at Edwin L. Bennett Funeral Homes, 824 Scarsdale Ave, Scarsdale, New York. 914-725-1137

Condolences can be posted on Funeral Home web page https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/scarsdale-ny/nicholas-sciarabba-9927453

Our deepest condolences to his wife Susan and the Sciarabba family. May he Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Billy Puskas billyp3932@yahoo.com

RET. P.O. DANIEL "DANNY" WARWICK
2/7/1949 - 11/27/2020

Billy informed me that Danny lost his battle to cancer while under hospice care at his daughter's house in Long Island.  Danny was living in Vero Beach FL. 
Danny was appointed to the Transit Police on 1/23/70 and retired 1/17/90.

There will be a memorial on Saturday December 12th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Good Shepherd Hospice, 110 Bi-County Blvd. Farmingdale, NY 11735

Condolences can be left at the Funeral Home web page Tribute for Daniel Warwick | Bryant Funeral Home (bryantfh.com)

MEMORIAL VISITATION
Saturday, December 12, 2020 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Bryant Funeral Home
411 Old Town Rd.
East Setauket, NY 11733

CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Saturday, December 12, 2020 3:00 PM
Bryant Funeral Home
411 Old Town Rd.
East Setauket, NY 11733

Cards can be sent to Danny’s daughter, Heather Baron, 21 Sands Lane, Port Jefferson NY 11777.  May Danny “Rest in Peace”

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. NORMAN EDWARDS
10/20/1936 – 11/15/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Norman Edwards on November 15th, at the age of 84 years. Norman was appointed to the Transit Police on April 1, 1965 and retired February 5, 1976.

Services took place on November 24th with burial in Calverton National Cemetery. His next of kin is his wife, Alta Nae.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Edwards family. May Norman Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Juan Caban jcaban10@tampabay.rr.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. HENRY “HANK” ARANA
11/20/1936 – 11/16/2020

Lou was told by Juan that Hank had various illnesses.  Lifetime Member Ret. Det. Henry 'Hank' Arana was appointed to the NYCTPD 11/4/1966 and retired 11/14/1986.  The above photo was taken at a Transit Police Florida Reunion.  Hank had a son, Richie, who was also on the Job and who I worked with in CWPS. 

Condolences can be left on the funeral home web page https://www.portacoelifh.com/obituaries/Henry-Arana/ 

Condolences can also be sent to Hank’s wife Jenny at 2640 Bay Leaf Drive, Orlando FL 32837. 

VISITATION

Porta Coeli Funeral Home
2801 E. Osceola Parkway
Kissimmee FL 34743

Saturday 11/21 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Arana family. May Hank Rest in Peace.

Sent by Charles McCray cemcray@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. ABRAHAM MARTIN

5/19/1937 – 11/8/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Abraham Martin at the age of 83 years from a massive stroke. Abraham was appointed to the Transit Police on February 15, 1966 and retired January 31,1987.

Funeral details:

Funeral services on Monday, November 16, 2020 at Brown & Son Funeral Home 5901 West Jim Bilton Boulevard, St. George, SC 29477 (843-563-4332).

Public viewing from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. All are required to wear a mask and adhere to social distancing.

In place of flowers, the family asks all monetary contributions to the WMHS Alumni Community Alliance, P.O. Box 62, St. George, SC 29477.

We, the Martin family, appreciate your caring and consideration during our time of grief and sadness.

Condolences may be sent to his sister Edith Oldham at 212 Chessington Circle, Summerville SC 29485 and please direct all inquiries to Edith Oldham, Email - mrsweo3@aol.com, or 1-843-860-3141

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Martin family. May he Rest in Peace..

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. SGT. STANLEY MCDONALD
10/191928 – 10/31/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees fo the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Stanley McDonald, on October 31st, at the age of 92 years. Stan was appointed to the Transit Police on May 16, 1956 and retired October 30, 1975.

I spoke with Stanley’s daughter Debbie last evening.  She had informed me that Stanley will be cremated and a Celebration of Life/Memorial Service will be held at a later date for Stanley and his wife Olive who passed about a month ago. I will request that the family notify me of the date.  May Stanley “Rest in Peace with his beloved Olive.”

Condolences can be sent to the McDonald family at 3615 Miriam Dr. Titusville FL 32796.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the McDonald family. May Stan and Olive Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. PO. JOSEPH PIPITONE
11/15/1967 – 10/15/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Joseph Pipitone on October 15th, 2020, at athe age of 52 years. His next of kin is his son, Joseph.

Joe was appointed to the Transit Police on August 2, 1993 and retired December 18, 2003.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Pipitone family. May Joseph rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. P.O. MICHAEL SULLIVAN
2/14/1945 – 10/22/2020

This obituary information was received from Bobby Ganley.  Michael Sullivan was found dead this Thursday in an apartment he shared with 2 other people. NYPD is attempting to make notification to his family.  Michael was appointed to NYCTPD 11/4/1966 and retired 6/1/1977.  If you knew Michael and would know how to get in contact with his next of kin or any family members, please contact Dep. Police Commissioner Robert Ganley at bob.ganley@nypd.org

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Sullivan family. May Michael Rest in Peace.

We will be holding the remembrance service for Desmond Robinson “Crow” on Saturday October 24th, 2020 at 10am (arrive at 10am for parking and to enter the church, service starts at approximately 1030). The location will be the Church on the Rock located at 2200 N State St, Bunnell, FL 32110. After the service approximately at 12noon, we will head to the Moose lodge located at 2535 north state street, Palm Coast, FL 32110 for lunch. While at the Moose Lodge we will be able to share memories of our friend / brother and how much he touched so many people’s lives. For those who have photos or videos they want or can provide to me so we can put together a video to play, please send them to my email Garrett.Decker@exprealty.com if you have any questions please call me at (386)449-9248.

Please let me know if you are going to make it so we can plan for enough food at lunch.

Thank you
Bobby Wheeler

October 19, 2020                           WIFE OF LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. VINCENT MARINO (late notice)

MARY MARINO

Vinnie sent in a donation and along with it was a letter in which he told us that Mary, his wife of 63 years, had passed away on September 16th.
Mary, Vinnie and I lived in the same neighborhood in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn, only a block away from each other. Mary's father was the neighborhood shoe maker and though Vinny is a bit older than myself, years passed until we met again in Company 5 of the December, 1965 Academy class .
We parted company after being assigned to different commands but met again in the late '70s in District 34 where we worked together until retirement.

Our deepest condolences to Vinnie and the Marino family. May Mary Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received this obituary information from Bobby Wheeler robertwheeler3@gmail.com

RET. P.O. DESMOND ROBINSON
12/30/1963 – 10/15/2020

Desmond expired from a heart attack on Thursday morning Oct 15, 2020 at the Halifax Health Hospital in Daytona,  Desmond while out on his motorcycle in the early morning hours, had been in a single vehicle motorcycle accident in Palm Coast. Responding Officers and EMT’s had Desmond airlifted to the Daytona trauma center conscious and alert but complaining of chest pains. At the Hospital Desmond suffered a heart attack and was resuscitated successfully 5 times before all life saving measures failed.  Divorced, Desmond is survived by his son Tim (30)  Ft Lauderdale,  daughters Bianca (21) Los Angeles and Reina(16) Palm Coast. Details of his memorial services will be forwarded once finalized. Desmond’s interment will be in New York.

LATE OBITUARY
RET. P.O. ROBERT “BOBBY” PROVENZANO
6/13/1935 – 10-9-2020

Received this information from Bobby’s wife.  Unfortunately, she didn’t leave her name or contact information

It is with great sadness to report my Husband Robert  A. Provenzano (District 1) passed away on the 9th of October, 2020. Bobby put up a good fight until he no longer could endure the pain of his illnesses. Bob was 85 years old. He loved the NYCTPD. 
Bob was appointed to the Transit Police on June 1, 1966 and retired July 23, 1985.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Robinson and Provenzano families. May their deceased loved ones Rest in Peace.

Lou received the following email from Bobby's daughter

Dear Mr. Hollander,

I wanted to write to inform you of my father’s passing. He died on Friday, October 9th, at approximately 3:10 pm at INOVA Alexandria Hospital in Alexandria, VA. My name is Janine; I am his youngest daughter.

My dad was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the beginning of 2017.  He had been managing Parkinson’s for the past several years, mostly with success.  Last November 2019, I amazingly convinced my parents to move from South Florida to Northern Virginia so that we could be closer to one another, most especially so that my husband & I could be of greater assistance to them in their golden years. 

Since the move, my dad required minor assistance from in-home health services/caregivers. But since June, he started to decline more noticeably after each passing month.   He fell while getting a cup of coffee at 4:30 am in late May and after the ER visit, I took him to his primary physician as a follow-up. Thankfully nothing was broken but we did some blood work with the primary and it revealed high calcium and low kidney function, among other things. On June 2 of this year, he began what turned into a revolving door of visits to the ER/ hospital/rehab. The unfortunate part of this first hospital stay was that, due to Covid, I was not able to be with my father in the hospital as visiting was prohibited. I did manage to get him home for his 85th birthday on June 13, but several days later he went to the hospital with another issue (Upper GI/internal bleeding). After that hospital stay, he then went to rehab at the end of June/early July. We got him back home after that rehab stint and he did good for several weeks.

Then he landed back in the hospital in August with another bout of high calcium in the blood. Thankfully, this time, visiting hours at the hospital were on a limited basis and I was there every day to be with him and advocate for him. A major faux pas this time was that they did not get him his Parkinson’s medication in a timely manner at the start of this hospital stay, and he lost his ability to swallow.  I had to butt heads with the doctors and was finally able to get him a PEG tube after a week so that he could get his medication and basic nutrition. What a mess. Anyhow, that was successful and although it took a while, they were able to get the high calcium  under control, get him talking/eating again, and sent him home. However, during this third hospital stay, his lymph nodes were quite noticeable and they did not address it. I went to bat for dad on that issue but we agreed to follow-up on an outpatient basis. He just wanted to go home.

And he did go home for another couple of weeks, but then his fever spiked again.  I made the decision to send him to the hospital in early September, thinking it was the calcium. Nope! Dad had aspiration pneumonia, and this time I was able to get the oncologist to do an inguinal (lymph node) biopsy.  With the pneumonia treated, we said OK to another (shorter) rehab facility stay in mid/late September so that he could regain some strength (no visitors allowed at rehab, unfortunately, but we did do FaceTime and “window” visits).  During this second rehab stay, we got the biopsy results & found out that he had Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  We only got the diagnosis on September 29th and the doctor was setting-up his chemotherapy regimen. Little did we know that the Parkinson’s was a distant second to what had now taken over.

We were on our way to see dad on October 5 during another window visit at the rehab facility when the rehab called me to say that they transferred him to the closest hospital; he had a high fever that wasn’t controllable. I got to the ER not long after he arrived to discover that he was having trouble breathing and was coughing up blood. Thankfully I was able to visit him every day that he was at the hospital.  Unfortunately, this time was different from all the previous hospital visits, as it was the first time I noticed that he was now truly struggling and beginning to suffer.  Come to find out that now dad picked-up Klebsiella pneumoniae. They gave him the appropriate heavy-hitting antibiotics, but the bacteria wouldn’t respond to the treatment. 

He couldn’t talk to me with his voice but he could communicate with his eyes and his face. Each day I went to visit, he got worse. On the day he died, I had a strange feeling in my gut and told my mother to come with me to see him. I was right.  It’s like he waited for us, for her. His blood pressure was extremely low despite them being able to get the fever under control.  He was so fragile that they strongly urged me to place him immediately under in-patient hospice care in another ward at the hospital; they didn’t want to chance a transport. So I called my sister in Colorado and my brother in Texas, and they said their goodbyes; my mother stepped out of the room to use the restroom, and as I was washing his face with a warm cloth and reminiscing about a trip we took during the summer before we moved to FL, he took his final breaths as I was holding him. He didn’t want to go to hospice and although the infection overtook him, he fought to the very end.  I am so very fortunate to have been the one there with him, and to have cared for him this past year. 

I apologize for the lengthy story, but I wanted to give my dad’s struggle the respect it deserved, and to extend the respect of a meaningful and substantive account of his fight to you as one of his brothers.

He always told me that being a Transit Policeman was the most dangerous and most fun time he has ever had in his life, and he held sacred the bond between him & his brothers and sisters.  He was modest, so he didn’t talk much of what he did, his honors or awards. I wish I knew more. We love hearing stories about him and his policing days. More proud a daughter could not be!

Please feel free to share this communication with the rest of the group.

Below is a link to his obituary (which I penned).

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/alexandria-va/robert-provenzano-9678508?fbclid=IwAR3nRhsThNNaEoJB9qQqmCanQnz-3ZNtWMyiMkgWo_YYztuFKopq_NaW2T8

May God bless you and all of the NYCTPD/NYPD brothers and sisters.

Sincerely,

Janine O. Provenzano (Bobby’s daughter)

P.S.  Please feel free to contact me if you wish to talk more or have any questions.

We received the following information from Linda Arcati and John's daughter, Michelle Pisano.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. CALVIN 'JOHN' MESSANA
8/17/1944 - 10/03/2020

We regret to inform our members of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Calvin 'John' Messana on October 3rd, at the age of 76 years. John had been suffering from COPD and his health had rapidly declined the past several months. John was appointed to the Transit Police on May 8, 1965 and retired on July 4, 1986. He had been assigned to the District 34 Anti-Crime Unit.

Funeral services were privately held by the family.

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from 1st VP Bob Valentino rvalent558@aol.com

RET. P.O. LOUIS ALLOGIAMENTO
10/30/1933 – 10/5/2020

I am extremely saddened to inform you that Retired Detective Louis Alligiamento passed away this day, Monday October 5, 2020. Louie was proceeded by his wife, Willie, who passed away on 10-14-2018. They were married for more than 67 years. Louie was such a special person with a wit second to none.

He was appointed to the NYC Transit Police on 08-02-1965 and retired on 06-17-1994

In 1990, Louie became the driver for the Chief of the NYC Transit Police, William J. Bratton, who later became NYC Police Commissioner. Their friendship lasted all these years and every time I spoke to the former Police Commissioner he would always ask for Louie and this past Easter Bratton called him and they had a wonderful conversation.

Louie is survived by his daughters Susan & Cheryl, grandchildren Justine, Danielle, T.J, Matthew, Jake and 4 great grandchildren.

God Bless you Lou. Your family and friends will miss you and your unsurpassed repartee, but you will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital. Condolences to the entire family and may Louie Rest In Peace.

Funeral arrangements took place on October 8th

We also want to thank Vinnie Servedio for contactting us very soon after Louie passed away. Lou's next door neighbor, Ed Keevan, Ret, NYPD Detective, and Security Dept. at St. Francis Hospital, contacted Vinnie about the sad news.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Allogiamento family. May Lou Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Dennis Ahern den1436@yahoo.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. ANGELO BALZANO
11/17/1940 – 10/2/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. P.O. Angelo Balzano, on October 2nd, at the age of 79 years.  Angelo was appointed to NYCTPD 11/4/66 and retired 3/25/85 . The above photo was taken at the 2003 Florida Reunion. 
 
From the family:
On this day Retired Police Officer Angelo Balzano passed away peacefully in his sleep. His body will be cremated but his soul will be with His Lord and Savior. Services will be held on either Tues or Wed Oct 6 or 7th at Hagerty and Scalia F.H. 3377 U.S.9 Old Bridge N J. Telephone#732 679 4422 Please call to confirm.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Balzano family. May Angelo “Rest in Peace.”

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. P. O CHRISTOPHER GRIBBON
2/12/1962 – 9/22/20

We regret to inform our fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. PO Christopher Gribbon on September 22nd at the age of 58 years. Christopher was appointed to the Transit Police on January 6, 1984 and retired January 15, 2004. He worked in D/30, Court Unit, D/32, D/34 and retired out of Transit Borough. 

A Funeral Mass was held on Thursday, October 1st.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gribbon family. May Christopher Rest in Peace.

We received this sad news today from Frank's wife, Linda

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. FRANK ARCATI
11/11/1938 - 09/25/2020

We deeply regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Frank Arcati on September 25th, at the age of 81 years.
Frank was appointed to the Transit Police on June 21, 1965 and retired October 29, 1985. He worked in District 34 most of his career, finishing up in D/34 Anti-Crime Unit. Frank and I worked together for many years at Stillwell Ave. and had many exciting adventures together. He had spoken many times of coming back East to visit friends and get together. He will be missed.

Condolences may be sent to his wife, Linda, by mail at 342 Benevente Drive, Oceanside CA 92057-8407 or email at larcati1851@att.net

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Linda and the Arcati family. May Frank Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net     Obituary information below was received from Alan Berkowitz berky4@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. DET. FRANK BIANCO
12/30/1942 – 9/17/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow retirees of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. Det. Frank Bianco, on September 17th at the age of 77 years. Frank was appointed to the NYCTPD on May 3, 1965 and retired October 6, 1990. 

Services were held on September 24th. Frank was cremated by the Neptune Society. 

The NYPD Broward 10-13 Club Uniform Honor Guard was present along with their marked RMP

Lou was informed that Frank’s obituary was posted on the Funeral Home web page where condolences can be posted
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/coral-springs-fl/kraeer-funeral-home-and-cremation-center/7089

I have been informed by Tom that his son Kevin passed away this past Thursday in care of Hospice in Florida after a long illness.  Tom informs me that Kevin was cremated and a church service will be held in Brooklyn at a later date. Condolences can be sent to Tom at tomg2217@verizon.net

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. HENRY GALLOP JR.
9/19/1938 - 9/13/2020

We regret to inform our fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. P.O. Henry B. Gallop, Jr. on September 13th, 2020, at the age of 81 years. Henry was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired November 4, 1985. He was last assigned to District 12.

Services were held on September 24th

Next of kin: his daughter, Odetta Gallop

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gallop family. May Henry Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD and Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com

RET. DET. CURTIS VINCENT
2/7/1940 - 8/29/20

We regret to inform our fellow retirees of the passing of Ret. Det. Curtis Vincent on August 29th, 2020, at the age of 80 years. Curtis was appointed to the Transit Police on July 29, 1968 and retired September 30, 1995. He was last assigned to the Transit Authority Liason Unit.

Funeral services had already been held.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Vincent family. May Curtis Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from John Giangrasso jgianj@verizon.net

RET. P.O. DONALD HUMPHREY
4/23/1937 – 9/7/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. Donald Humphrey on September 7th, 2020, at the age of 83 years.  He battled lung cancer but the last 3 months took its toll. We do not have any information on his appointment date (possibly 1964-65) but he retired August 12, 1985.

He is survived by 5 children.

Condolences can be sent to his daughter Robin Evens at
845 Center Dr.
Baldwin N.Y. 11570

Services took place on September 10th

I worked with Donald in the O/U back in the late '60s. As a rookie, I received a lot of good advice from him. May he Rest in Peace. - Tony

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of two former Transit Police officers.

RET. SGT. MARK SILEY
12/16/1953 - 8/28/2020

Ret. Sgt. Mark Siley, formerly assigned to Narcotics Boro Manhattan North, passed away on August 28th, 2020 at the age of 66 years.
Mark was appointed to the Transit Police on July 18, 1984 and retired from NYPD (date incorrectly given by NYPD).

Services took placeon September 9th.

RET. P.O. MIGUEL JUSINO
4/8/1958 – 9/2/2020

Ret. P.O. Miguel Jusino, formerly assigned to Transit Bureau District 12, passed away on September 2nd at the age of 62 years.
Miguel was appointed to the Transit Police on July 18, 1984 and retired from NYPD on July 1, 2002.

No services information issued. His next of kin is his wife, Maritza.
 
 
Our deepest condolences to the Siley and Jusino families. May the deceased Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. REV. JOHN DE MEIS
6/16/1930 TO 8/19/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. PO Rev. John DeMeis on August 19th at the age of 90 years. John was a deacon in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Staten Island and was also known as Rev. John DeMeis and "John The Cop" during his assignments to Districts 5, 35, and finally 34 where he retired from.  John was appointed to the Transit Police on 12/23/1961 and retired 3/7/1982.

He was, for many years, a chaplain in the Retirees Association until health issues forced him to retire as chaplain.

Services were held on August 23rd and 24th on Staten Island.

John leaves his wife, Rita, and their children.

An old story of John, while assigned to the Stillwell Ave. station post,  was when he asked a Mounted Officer from the 60th Pct. for a ride on his horse. John got on and the horse started galloping away, much to John's shock. He will be missed and may he Rest in Peace.

John was the sole member of the NYC Transit Police Mounted Unit

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Tom Carney TCarney131@aol.com  .

RET. P.O. JOHN “THE BIRD” LEWIN JR.
11/28/1948 – 8/9/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. John "The Bird" Lewin on August 9th at the age of 71 years. John was appointed to NYCTPD 5/20/1974 and retired 9/10/1991.

Services took place on August 14th in South Glen Falls, NY

Tom was informed by John's wife that there will be no viewing and it was John’s wishes that he be creamated.
Condolences can be sent to John’s wife Casey at caseygrant@gmail.com  The obituary and condolences can also be left on the Funeral Home web page https://www.kilmerfuneralhome.com/memorials/john-lewin/4296263/index.php#Visitation where John’s obituary is listed also. 

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. DET. NICHOLAS CALABRESE
2/21/1917 - 3/7/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Ret. Det. Nicholas Calabrese on March 7th, 2020 at the age of 93 years. Nicholas was appointed to the Transit Police on January 26, 1953 and retired July 17, 1974.

Services were held on August 11th, followed by interment in Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne NY.

His next of kin is his niece, Kathleen Greenwood.

Our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Calabrese families. May Nicholas Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net from information in NY Daily News

RET. P.O. BOBBY KERR
7/18/1939 – 7/28/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. Bobby Kerr on July 28th at the age of 81 years.
Bobby was appointed to the Transit Police on 6/21/66 and retired 11/18/85.  He worked in Dist. 34 along with Frank Crisa and Tony Lomanto.

Click on funeral home web page link to read obituary and leave condolences: https://tinyurl.com/yyb77uuq

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Kerr family. May Bobby “ Rest in Peace.”

We received this sad news from Jim's son, James, Jr. and daughter Danielle.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JAMES "JIM" MEYER
6/10/1939 - 7/24/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of our Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. James Meyer on July 24th, at the age of 81 years. Jim had been suffering from Parkinson's for the past few years and during his recent stay at a rehab facility, he requested that he be discharged and go home to his family where he passed. Jim was appointed to the Transit Police on 11/10/1967 and retired 10/3/1996.

Jim was a fixture and a "legend" in the Operations Unit where he mostly worked on the Assignment Desk and where I first met him in 1966 when I went on R/D. In later years after we were both retired, Jim and I worked at St. Francis Hospital with several other Transit retirees.

Services will be held in North Carolina where he and his wife, Margaret, moved to from Long Island back in the early 2000's. Jim always had a smile and a joke and was a great person to work with.

Services were held on August 6^th .

View service details at https://www.andrewsmortuary.com/obituary/james-jim-meyer

Our deepest condolences to his wife, Margaret, and the Meyer family. May Jimmy Rest in Peace.

From Ret. Lt. Calvin F. Glass nivl225vgm@aol.com as received from Ret. PO John F. Brown

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers that Ret. P.O. Arthur Marrow passed away on Saturday morning, July 25, 2020 in Scotland Neck, NC.  Arthur was in one of the classes of 1965.  He will be cremated.  No further information at this time.   Please keep the Marrow family in your prayers. Arthur was not a member of this Associatoin and we don;t know his appointment or retirement dates. It was reported that Arthur was an RMP Operator in District 33 for some time.

Our deepest condolences to the Marrow family. May Arthur Rest in Peace. The photo above was taken at a family affair and the lady was a close personal friend.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. P.O. RICHARD “RICHEY” ANDRESEN
6/24/1942 – 7/24/2020

I am saddened to inform you of the passing of Ret. P.O. Richie Andresen at 9:30 AM today (July 24th).  He lost his tuff battle to cancer.  Thanks to Eddie Torres, we followed him through his whole fight.  Richie was one of the nicest guys you would ever want to meet.  He and his wife Darleen attended all of the Transit Police Florida Reunions.  I will definitely miss seeing them both at future reunions. I was told he loved racing cars.  Condolences can be sent to his wife Darleen at Darleen.andresen@gmail.com.   I have also been told that Richie will be cremated and interned in Calvary Cemetery in NY with his 2 brothers and parents.  There will be a Celebration of Life at a future date.

Richie was appointed to NYCTPD 3/23/70 and retired in 1983.  May Richie “Rest in Peace”

We thank Lou and Eddie Torres for keeping us up to date on Richie's progress during his fight with cancer. It is very sad that after so long a struggle, he succumbed to the disease. Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Darleen and the Andresen family. May Richie Rest in Peace.

We received the following sad news from Ret. Sgt. Bob Ruggiero ejrrjr956@aol.com

Update from Lou Hollander from Jim's son, James Armstrong, Jr :

RET. P.O. JAMES ARMSTRONG
3/10/ 1942 - JULY 7, 2020

Bobby called yesterday after his wife saw an entry in Facebook posted by Jimmy's daughter, Jacqueline, that her father, Ret. P.O. James Armstrong passed away on July 17th, after a brief illness. I spoke to Jacqueline yesterday and offered our condolences. She told me that she will forward any information to us on his Transit service when she searches his records at which time we will update this posting. Lou Hollander was also informed of this and we feel Lou has more information available.

Jim was appointed to the Transit Police on July 29, 1968 and retired March 3, 1981

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

Lou
I'm sad to tell you my sister, MaryAnn Van Hoesen formerly of Bay Terrace, Staten Island, now Hawley, PA, passed earlier on 7/12/20. MaryAnn was just 75 in June and suffered a massive heart attack. I'm sure wake and funeral will be in Staten Island.
Thanks,
John
 
Condolences can be made to John at pdblues@ptd.net .  May MaryAnn “Rest in Peace”

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. FRANCIS WEIS
6/9/1933 – 6/30/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Francis Weis on June 30th 2020, at the age of 87 years.

Lou had received the following message:

Dear Louis,
With a heavy heart I have to inform you of the passing of my husband, Francis J. Weis, Jr, on June 30th 2020. He joined the Transit Police Department on October 7th 1968 and retired from the Communications Unit on January 11th 1986.
Sincerely
Dorothy Weis

Condolences can be sent to Dorothy at dweis@comcast.net

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Weis family. May Francis Rest in Peace.

From Bob Valentino, 1st VP, rvalent558@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. SING STANLEY BAILEY
4/28/1939 - 7/9/2020

I am deeply saddened to inform you of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Police Officer Stanley Bailey, today, July 9th, after a short illness, at the age of 81 years.
Stan was appointed to the Transit Police Department on November 1, 1966 and retired on November 1, 1986. Stan worked mainly in District 33.

Stan was known for his Powerlifting as he placed 4th in the Olympic Games in Germany in 1972. He was undefeated in the New York State Police Olympics Powerlifting competition. He was a member of the New York City Retired Transit Police Officer's Association Sports Hall of Fame. Stan was a good cop and a real nice person who always wanted to help people.

The photo above was taken at the Association's Sports Hall of Fame Awards night in June, 2018

Services were held on Friday July 17th at 7:30PM

Condolences may be left on funeral home web page https://towersfuneralhomeny.com/tribute/details/1881/Sing-Bailey/condolences.html#content-start May Sing “Rest In peace”

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his son Steve, daughter Suzanne and the entire Bailey family. May Stan Rest In Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net   obituary information was received from Frank Crisa fcrisa@verizon.net

RET. P.O. ANTHONY BROCATO
6/29/1937 – 7/5/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. Anthony "Tony" Brocato on Sunday, July 5th, at the age of 83 years.

Unfortunately, Tony was never a member of the Retirees Association so we don't know his appointment and retirement dates.

Services took place on July 9th & 10th

Burial was in Ocean View Cemetery in Staten Island NY

Visitation and funeral details can be found on the Funeral Home web page
https://matthewfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/1083/Anthony-Brocato/condolences.html 

Condolences can also be left on this page.  May Anthony “Rest in Peace."

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

Frank Crisa and I worked with Tony in District 34 for many years. We always found him to be "one of the guys." - Tony

From Charles McCray cemcray@aol.com

RET. FORMER TPD CHIEF GEORGE LATIMER
3/10-1929 - 7/4/2020

With a heavy heart we report the passing of Ret. Former Chief of the Transit Police Department George Latimer on July 4th. George was 91 yrs. of age.

Chief Latimer was also the father of Ret. Sgt. Laurence Latimer. Laurence states that with the COVID guidelines, there will be no viewing but a memorial will be set for a later date.

Laurence sent this message out to Lou Hollander:

Just wanted to let you know that my Father's final tour with the NYCTPD ended today, July 4th, at 1453hrs. He took a fall yesterday at his assisted living apartment and was sent to the hospital. They had to put him on a ventilator and his organs started shutting down. He had told all of us that he didn't want to go out like that. So after my brother from Pennsylvania and I got to the hospital the ventilator was removed and he passed away at 1453hrs surrounded by his three sons, all retired PO's. My brother George Jr was taking care of him in Palm Coast. Due to COVID-19 issues, there will be no viewing or funeral. We will try to hold a Memorial

His sons George Jr. can be contacted at 1717 Boston Lane, Palm Coast FL 33137, e-mail jydpapd@gmail.com and Laurence at sgt562@yahoo.com

Chief Latimer was appointed to the Transit Police on September 15, 1955 and retired September 12, 1993.

The above photo was taken in 2014 at the dedication of the George & Frances Latimer Lecture Hall at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Campus.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Latimer families. May George Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Obituary information received from Marilyn Scahill

RET. LT. STEPHEN “STEVE” DI RIENZO
8/12/50 – 6/30/2020

Hello Louie,
     I am deeply saddened to inform you of the passing of (Ret. Lt.) Steve DiRienzo, today, June 30, 2020, after a short illness. Steve was 69 years old. He was appointed to the Transit Police Department in October of 1973. He retired on October 22, 1995 as a Lieutenant from the Vandals Squad. Steve also worked in Districts 4 and 1. At this time, there is no funeral information available. I will forward the information as soon as I receive it. May he Rest In Peace!

I had the pleasure of knowing Steve while I was assigned to Dist. 4 in CWPS. I had seen him often at the NY Reunion at Antun’s.  The above photo was taken at the 2016 NY Reunion. He was a very nice and pleasant guy that was well liked by all. May he “Rest in Peace” - Lou

ACTIVE P.O. JAMES HUGHES
5/9/1961 – 6/27/2020

Lou Hollander received this obituary information from Eddie Kaercher sgt4187@hotmail.com

James had a heart attack while working O/T at 1 PP.  James was appointed to NYCTPD 1/9/1986.  May he “Rest in Peace” Condolences can be left on Funeral Home web page https://themoorefuneralhome.com/tribute/details/606/JAMES-HUGHES/obituary.html#tribute-start

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the DiRienzo and Hughes families. May their decased loved ones Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

I have been informed by Rocky Mein of the passing Liz Lonergan, wife of Ret. Det. Mike Lonergan, passed on Friday 6/26.  The details are as follows

Services took place on June 30th and July 1st.

Condolences can be sent to Mike and family at BUD759@aol.com or his home: 114 Blauvelt Ave. West Haverstraw NY 10993.  May Liz “Rest in Peace”

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Lonergan family. May Liz Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net Information was received from Alan Berkowitz.

RET. P.O. HOWARD SHARE
9/23/1938 – 6/12/2020

From Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. SGT. ROBERT "BOB" WILKINSON
5/21/1934 - 6/7/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Robert "Bob" Wilkinson on Sunday, June 7th, at the age of 86 years. Bob was appointed to the Transit Police on May 19, 1959 and retired May 11, 1976.
His wife, Ann, passed away the previous day, June 6th.

From Charles:

With deep sadness we inform all of the passing of Retired Sgt. Robert (Bob) Wilkinson and his wife Ann Wilkinson. We are informed by his daughter that Ann died of a heart attack late Saturday followed by Bob's death this morning.
We have no further information at this time. We will inform you when more information becomes available.
Stay safe.
Charles

UDATE INFORMATION: received from Lou Hollander:

Services for Robert were held on June 17th and for his wife, Ann, services were held on June 18th. Following her service, Ann's body was cremated and laid to rest along side of her husband.

The family has honored Bob's request to be cremated without viewing. His services will be in the form of a memorial.

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. EDWARD CEGAR
7/11/1945 -5/22/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. Edward Cegar, on May 22, 2020, at the age of 74 years. Edward was appointed to the Transit Police on May 7, 1968 and retired August 23, 1988.

From Lou: Eddie worked in District 3 and I got to know him pretty well while I was assigned to District 3 in the newly created CWPS Task force. He was a nice guy, always smiling. He lived in Spring Hill Florida with his wife and children.  We got together once at my house shortly after I moved here.  He changed and he seemed like he turned into a loner.  Too bad.  May he “Rest in Peace."

Services were held in Florida. His next of kin is his wife, Maureen.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Cegar family. May Edward Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

To all my friends:
Thank you for your cards, gifts, phone calls and/or messages. I heard/saw/received each one.... and each one brought me comfort. My dad’s wake will be at John Day Funeral Home- Red Bank, NJ on Tuesday, June 2 from 9am to 10am. Unfortunately, only immediate family will be allowed to attend. We will then have a procession to Resurrection Cemetery- SI NY and a burial for him at 11am. Unfortunately, only immediate family will be allowed inside the cemetery as well. However, you are more than welcome to drive by or stand outside with the NYPD who will be there (at 11am) paying tribute to him. Thank you again for your support and kindness during this difficult time. It means a lot.
Love,
Arleen

Note from Don Avenoso. Thanks for all your thoughts, kind words and prays. The transit family has been outstanding over the years. Thank you!

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net I was informed of Richie’s passing on the day he passed from Mike Fanning.  I was advised by Mike not to publish his passing due to the fact his wife also had the virus and was on a ventilator and they didn’t want her to learn of Richie’s passing because they feared she would give up. Richie was appointed to NYCTPD 12/1/1965 and retired 2/20/1987. Information below was received from John Briganti.  May Richie “Rest in Peace

RET. DET RICHARD “RICHIE” COMMESSO
6/23/1943 – 4/30/2020

From John Briganti:
It is with regret and great sadness to inform you of the passing of Ret. Det. Richard Commesso, President of our Verrazano 10-13 Association and dear friend, on the morning of Friday, April 30. Richie was loved and respected by all who knew him.  He will be sorely missed.  
 
We extend our condolences and deepest sympathies to his loving wife Irene, his daughters Sue and Debbie and the entire Commesso family.  May He Rest In Peace
 
Richie’s wife, Irene, was hospitalized for the Covid-19 virus shortly before his passing.  As per request of the family, for personal reasons, we were asked not to make any announcement of his passing until she was released. We hope you will understand.
 
A private service for family members was held on Friday, June 5th at Hanley Funeral Home, 60 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island, 10306.  

Thank You

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Commesso family. May Richie Rest in Peace.

Richie and I had a pure chance encounter back in 2013 when I was on vacation in Yellowstone Park with my daughter and her family. Waiting in line at the dining room of the Old Faithful Inn, I turned my head and who do I see but Richie walking over to the dining hall with his wife. He was wearing his Verrazzano 10-13 shirt and I was wearing my Transit FOP 317 Lodge shirt. Talk about a small world, indeed! - Tony

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. LT. JOHN “JERRY” McCARTHY
11/22/1938 – 5/21/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Lt. John G. "Jerry" McCarthy, on May 21st, at the age of 81 years.

Please click of the Funeral Home web page link below to view a beautiful tribute to a great guy.  Condolences can also be left.  Jerry was appointed NYCTPD 5/3/65 and retired from NYPD on August 22, 1996.

https://www.johnedayfuneralhome.com/tributes/John-McCarthy

From Al Vulpis
Hi Louis,
I read in the Asbury Park Press Obits of the passing of Lt. John "Jerry" McCarthy on May 21, 2020 at Riverview Hospital, Red Bank, N.J..  I worked with him for a number of years, and he was a really fine officer and friend.  The family stated that private services will be held for the immediate family only due to the virus, but a memorial will be held  be held when the family is allowed to have one.
Thank you for all you do in keeping us in touch, and stay safe!!!
Al Vulpis

Lou received this obituary information from Hugh Lennon eps805@msn.com

RET. P.O. ANTHONY "TONY” CAVELLO
10/27/1939 – 5/22/1979

I got a call from Tony Cavello’s wife, Ginger, that Tony passed away yesterday, May 21st. I worked with Tony in the Stakeout Unit. He was living in Ohio and had health problems over the last several years. For anyone wishing to offer condolences to is wife Ginger at
, 
710 Bedford Road SE
Brookfield, Ohio 44403-9776
Phone number 330 398 7386

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the McCarthy & Cavello families. May the deceased Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. FRANK GAGLIANO
5/27/1965 – 5/13/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. Frank Gagliano, on May 13th, at the age of 54 years. Frank was appointed to the Transit Police on July 8, 1985 and retired on July 23, 2005. He was last assigned to Dist. 34.

Funeral services took place on May 29th at The Scalia Funeral Home, 28 Eltingville Blvd., Staten Island NY
His next of kin is his father, Philip Gagliano.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Gagliano family. May Frank “Rest in Peace”

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net information received from Ret. Chief John Kavanagh 

RET. P.O. CLIFFORD BUCKLEY
7/24/1943 – 4/20/20

Retired P.O. Clifford Buckley passed away on April 20th, at the age of 76 years while a patient in Weill Cornell Hospital of sepsis, pneumonia, Covid-19 related.  He was on a ventilator for almost three weeks.

His assignments were District 3 until a Line of Duty injury assigned him to the Restricted Duty Unit at Jay St. Clifford was appointed to NYCTPD 2/20/67 and he was forced to retire (LOD) on 8/9/78 and worked in hospitals for many years.

Cliff is survived by his loving wife Mary and his three children, Daniel, Marie and Deborah, his sister Jacqueline and his seven grandchildren who were the ' joy of his life'.  A requiem mass was held in Bruckless, County Donegal, Ireland, on May 8th, and memorial will be held in the future in New York.  His ashes are retained by the family and will interred at some future date.
May Clifford “Rest in Peace”

We received the following from member Tom Greer who saw this on Facebook, but we don't know who posted it.

RET. LT. RICHARD BAGGS
1/31/1952 - 5/18/2020

Lou Hollander received the following from NYPD:

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. Lt. Richard Baggs on May 18th, at the age of 68 years. Richard was appointed to the Transit Police on May 20, 1974 and retired from NYPD on August 24, 2000. He was last assigned to PBBS SPECIALIZED UNIT.

Received this updated information from Alan Berkowitz  berky4@aol.com

Services took place on Tuesday, May 26th followed by interment at Our Lady of Peace Cemetery located at 10941 Southern Boulevard, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411.

His next of kin is his wife, Linda.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Buckley and Baggs families. May the deceased Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. EDWARD RILEY
6/10/1959 – 5/15/2020

Private services will take place on May 19th followed by burial in Greenwood Cemetery.
 
Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Riley family. May Edward Rest in Peace.            

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from Louis Pagan

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. VINCENT “VINNY” BYRNE
6/30/1942 – 5/5/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O.Vincent "Vinny" Byrne on May 5th, at the age of 77 years. Vinny was appointed to the NYCTPD on 12/1/1965 and retired 8/17/1981. 

Vinny and his wife Judy were regular attendees at the annual Florida Reunion.  Condolences can be sent to Judy and family at 3773 SW Kistler St. Port St. Lucie, FL 34953.  My condolences to Judy and the Byrne family.  You will be missed at future Florida reunions.  May Vinny “Rest In Peace”

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

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. EDWARD TEASLEY
7-21/1941 –4/16/2020

We regret to inform our members and friends of the passing of fellow Transit officer, Ret. PO Edward Teasley, on April 16th, at the age of 78 years.  Edward was appointed to the Transit Police on May 7, 1968 and retired July 24, 1988. His next of kin is his daughter Robbin Teasley.
 
I worked with Ed in District 4 in the late 70’s.  May he “Rest in Peace”

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Teasley family. May Edward Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from George Butler

RET. P.O. LEWIS DAVIS
9/21/1935 – 5/6/2020

With a heavy heart, I have the task of reporting the passing this morning of (Ret. P.O.) Lewis Davis who worked in District 3 and retired from Disrict 2. There are no further details at this time.
George

From Lou - They will be having a memorial for Lewis at a later date.  Lewis was in my class, 3/10/69 and was my platoon Sgt.  He was a very nice guy during the time we spent in the academy, unfortunately I don’t believe we ran into each other after the academy.  He retired 7/17/89.  May Lew “Rest in Peace”

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Davis family. May Lewis Rest in Peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JOSEPH FUNK
11/3/1942 - 5/4/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Joseph Funk, on May 4th at the age of 77 years. Joseph was appointed to the Transit Police on December 1, 1965 and retired April 22, 1977. I believe he last worked in District 4 or 20

The following was published in Newsday on May 6, 2020

FUNK - Joseph F. of Westbury N.Y. passed away on May 4th 2020 due to complications from COVID-19. Loving Father of Joseph Jr. and Janet Kobel (Peter). Beloved "Poppy" to Elizabeth Kobel and Emma Kobel. Loving Ex-Husband and friend to Joan Funk. Will be missed by his "grandpet" Peyton. Long time member of the Carle Place community. Served in the United States National Guard. Retired New York City Transit Police Officer. Memorial service to celebrate his life at a later date. Donations to North Shore Animal League America would be appreciated. Condolences may be left on the Legacy.com website:
https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newsday/obituary.aspx?n=joseph-f-funk&pid=196147590

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Funk families. May Joseph Rest in Peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. JAMES HALL
1/5/1953 – 4/3/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. James Hall, on April 3rd, 2020, at the age of 67 years. James was appointed to the Transit Police on March 14, 1974 and retired from NYPD on June 27, 1996. His next of kin is his wife, Claudia Hall.

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

RET. P.O. RENE ARTAUD
9/27/1943 – 4/27/2020

Ret. P.O. Rene Artaud was appointed to NYCTPD 10/1/1973 and retired from NYPD on 6/27/1995. May Rene “Rest in Peace”

I just spoke with  Henry Van Heemstedtobelt  a short while ago and am sorry to pass on the news of  Rene Artaud's  passing away earlier this morning. Henry's daughter works with the Monroe Ambulance Service and made notification to her father who verified the address and drove to Rene's house.  When Henry arrived,  the NY State Police were already safeguarding the property.

During our phone call  Henry  told me that he had then spoken to  Rene's  cousin who was able to add a few details. Rene's  cancer had recently become more aggressive and was unresponsive to  chemo  treatments. Rene spoke to his ex-wife to tell her that because of all this turmoil with  Coronavirus / Covid 19,  he didn't want there to be any attempt at a wake / viewing. If anyone wanted to visit the cemetery for the burial,  that would be up to them.

Henry added that when he was at  Rene's house he noticed that  Rene's two toys were missing from the front yard. Rene had a  '60s Mustang  and a '70s Hurst 442 that he kept under tarps, free of rust, and drove around town from time to time. Apparently, Rene saw things coming and took the time to 'take care of things' and  'put things in order'.

Rene's remains are being handled by the Ferguson Funeral Home in Washingtonville, NY where his daughter was waked last year. I will be sure to pass on any details as soon as I get them.

Some people on this mailing may not remember Rene Artaud because of his status as a true old-timer. He retired in the late Spring 1995,  shortly after the merge. Rene was a rookie with the likes of Steve Buatti, Billy Cozzollino, Frankie Colamesto, Mugsy Whalen,  'Joe' McGarry, Lt. 'Chet' Levey, Mickey Perez, Gene Hennigan, Kenny Blischke, and all the others who remember when  "the old District One" was on the  57Street Mezz..

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Artaud family. May he Rest in Peace/

We received information and a request from Bob's daughter, Michelle Abraham (NYPD PO - 122 Pct.) to please forward any and all correspondence to her as she is handling all affairs for Bob's widow, Magdalena.

Michelle can be contacted at mich.abraham@gmail.com or phone at 1-347-613-4190.

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

RET. SGT. RICHARD SUZUKI
7/19/1941 – 4-19-2020

(Ret. Sgt.) Richard Suzuki, 78, of Sayville, Long Island, died April 19, 2020 of COVID-19. Beloved husband of Linda. Loving father of Richard Jr., and Peter, stepfather of Robert Williams III, Jennifer Karpoich, and Michael Williams. Grand-father of eleven and great-grandfather of three. Richard was a retired sergeant of NYC Transit Police, and a proud US ArmyVeteran. Services will be private, with a larger Celebration of Life at a later date. If you wish to remember Richard with a gift, please consider making a donation to the Long Island State Veteran's Home in Stony Brook, New York. Arrangements were entrusted to Moloney Family Funeral Homes in Bohemia, New York.
(As posted in Newsday)

Richard was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired July 18, 1985

Sent by Lou Hollander as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. JOHN BRITT
2/4/1944 - 4/18/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. John Britt on April 18, 2020, at the age of 76 years.
No information received as to services.
 
John was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired July 31, 1978. No services at this time. His next of kin is his wife, Frances.

STELLA GALVANI, WIFE OF THE LATE RET. P.O. JOHN GALVANI

I was informed that John’s widow, Stella, passed away last night, April 23rd, from COVID-19.  Stella rejoins John just 18 days after he passed.  At least it is nice to know that they are together again.  Stella was a very nice lady.  It was always a pleasure to be in her company.  May she and John be “resting in Peace” in the arms of Jesus. Because of the situation we are in, I am almost positive there will not be a viewing or service.

Condolences can also be sent to their son Darren
Darren Galvani
1332 Allen Dr
Seaford, NY 11783
DarrenGalvani@Gmail.com

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of the deceased. May their loved ones Rest in Peace

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. DET. EDWARD WASILEWSKI
11/24/1925 - 4/20/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Ret. Det. Edward Wasilewski on Monday, April 20th, at the age of 94 years.
Ed was appointed to the Transit Police on January 9, 1950 and retired July 28, 1975.

Family services were held on April 24th

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Sophie, and the Wasilewski family. May Ed rest in peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. LT. NORMAN PORTER
8/7/1937 - 4/11/2020

Hello Louie, 
I must share the sad news that my father, Lt. Norman E. Porter passed away on the evening of Saturday April 11th after a long period of ill health. He went on to join my mom Pauline who predeceased Dad on January 5th of this year. They were together for over 62 years. Dad loved his career with the Transit Police and valued all the friendships he made there over the years. 

At this time, our family has chosen to delay the memorial service for Dad until after the restrictions we all have to live under have been lifted and our family can be together. We hope that everyone who is part of our Transit Police Family is taking care of themselves and remaining healthy.
 
Norman was appointed to NYCTPD 10/23/1961 and retired 2/6/82.  May Norman “Rest in Peace” with his love Pauline

I had the pleaseure of working with Lt. Porter when I was assigned to the O/U back in the late '60s. I always found him to be a fair and honest gentleman at all times. May he Rest in Peace. - Tony

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net

RET. INSP. JOHN KASPRZAK
7/22/1944 – 4/17/2020

Our deepest condolences ans sympathies to the Kasprzak family. May John Rest in Peace.

We received this sad news this morning from our Financial Secretary Greg Stripp welltadoo@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER and SGT-AT-ARMS RET. P.O. EDWARD WILKO
2/17/1943 - 4/16/2020

We deeply regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of our Association's Sgt-At-Arms, Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Edward Wilko, on April 16th at the age of 77 years from the COVID-19 virus. Ed had been hospitalized for 2-3 weeks and had recently been under a ventilator.  

Ed was always a welcoming person at the doors of our meetings and events with a big smile and always ready with the raffle tickets to sell.  Ed was a US Navy veteran before joining the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired July 4, 1986. I believe he was last assigned to District 23.

Ed leaves his daughters Charlene Enoch and Rachel Miller who is an active Police Officer with the Nassau PD.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Wilko family. May Ed Rest in Peace.

From 1st VP Bob Valentino rvalent558@aol.com

RET. DEP. INSP.  LEONARD PEZZILLO
5/27/1944 - 4/16/2020

I am saddened to inform all that Retired DI Leonard Pezzillo passed away on April 15th, but not from the virus. He was at St. Francis Hospital with a heart problem. He went home and shortly thereafter passed away. Lenny was appointed on 6/21/65 and retired right after the merge.
No funeral details available.

From Lou Hollander:

I also received this information from FOP Lodge 3100.  I have not received any other information.  If I get any new info I will pass it along.  I knew Lenny in the Mid 70’s when I worked in Dist. 3 CWAC,  I remember him as a real nice friendly guy and was told he was a fair Boss.  My condolences to his family and may he “Rest in Peace”

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net as received from NYPD

RET. P.O. VITO NEGLIO
7/21/1937 – 4/14/2020

We regret to inform our fellow officers of the passing of Ret. P.O. Vito Neglio on April 14th at the age of 82 years. Vito was appointed to the Transit Police on June 1, 1966 and retired April 24, 1987.

A service was held for the family on Monday, April 20th followed by burial in St. Raymond's Cemetery, Bronx NY

His next of kin is his wife, Gladys.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Pezzillo and Neglio families. May Lenny & Vito Rest in Peace.

We received this sad news from Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JOHN NORRIS
2/27/1936 - 4/15/2020

With a heavy heart we sadly inform you that our Brother Lifetime Member Ret. PO John Norris has lost his battle with the COVID-19 virus. John was taken to the hospital and put on a ventilator on Sunday. He passed this morning at 4 AM. John was 84 yrs. of age.

John's wife Virnia, who also was infected, has been cleared of the virus.
Bro. Norris joined the Transit Police Dept. on December 1,1965 and spent the majority of his years in Dist. 20 and 22 and retired November 3, 1980..

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

From Lou Hollander as received from Arnie Fisher arnoldfisher@hotmail.com

RET. P.O. HUGH POWELL
11/17/1936 – 4/10/2020

I searched for an obituary for Hugh, but was unable to find one.  Hugh is on my mailing list and his email Arnie enclosed is correct. 
Hugh was appointed to NYCTPD 5/3/1965 and retired 2/18/1987.  May Hugh “Rest in Peace”

I want to let you know that Hugh Powell passed away yesterday morning.  He suffered from dementia for several years and recently he went to Mather Hospital, Port Jefferson where he passed away.  He came on the job around the same time we did but I don't know if he was in our class. I worked with him at 22C which was 168th St. Jamaica Ave. when we did 8P to 4A (remember those days?) and remained friends with him down through the years.  I will truly miss him.  He will be cremated and at this time I have no news as to any future services planned.  Should I get that information I will pass it on.  When Hugh retired, again I don't know the date, I think it was the late 80's, he went to work for the Rockefeller Organization at Rockefeller Center and had a nice 2nd career.  If condolences want to be sent the only email address I have is huelstone@aol.com.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Powell family. May Hugh rest in peace.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. INSP. ROBERT ABRAHAM
9/26/1941 - 4/9/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. Insp. Robert Abraham at the age of 78 years. Bob had been hospitalized from the effects of COVID-19 and passed away from complications of the virus.

Bob was appointed to the Transit Police on May 3, 1965 and retired from NYPD on September 26, 2001. After retirement, he went on to become the Chief of Police of the Sea Gate Police Department in Brooklyn, not very far from District 34 in Coney Island.

From Lou Hollander:

Services took place on Sunday, April 12th and interment in New Montifiore Cemetery, W Babylon NY

I have had the pleasure working with Bob, when he was the Sgt in Manhattan Criminal Court in the mid 70’,s doing arraignments .  He was a pleasurer to work for, very enjoyable to be around. One of his biggest concerns were what we were going to eat and where I was going to get it.

RECEIVED FROM BOB’S DAUGHTER WENDY

We lost a beautiful soul on April 9th, 2020 when Robert "Bob" Abraham passed away peacefully in his sleep. He is survived by his current wife, Maggie, five children, Scott, Kenny, Wendy, Michelle and Eleanor, five adoring grandchildren Karly, Jason, Lindsey, Loren and Mikayla, nephew, Steven and niece, Cindy, his first wife, Joan and two "sisters" Susan and Debbie. Additionally, there are countless "brothers" and friends who are mourning this great loss.
Bob dedicated his life to service and community as evidenced by his long-term work with the NYCTP and with the NYPD after the merge, Masons and various other organizations. Walking through the streets of NYC with Bob was like being with a celebrity-people stopped him all the time to thank him for help, support and mentorship he provided through the years. He was a friend to all and helped anyone in need. Bob was a model of pure compassion and kindness and his personality was larger than life.
Donations in Bob's memory can be made to the Second Kings Charities Fund, a Masonic charity.  A memorial service will be planned in the coming months. When that date is set Louie will post it.

I first met Bob when I was working in the O/U in the late '60s. He always had a smile and a helping hand. Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Magdalina, and the Abraham family. May Bob rest in peace. - Tony

Frank Crisa and Fred Ametrano heard of this yesterday but it wasn't confirmed until today. Our thanks to Lou Hollander for this also.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JOHN GALVANI
9/10/1943 - 4/5/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. John Galvani, on Sunday, April 5th at the age of 76 years. John had recently been feelin ill and fell, requiring his being taken to a hospital where he was treated and tested and found positive for the coronavirus and after a few days, passed away. We were very happy to see John at the Retirees meeting in March and John was very happy to have attended.

John was appointed to the Transit Police on June 21, 1965 and retired July 4, 1990. He was the Recording Secretary and 2nd VP of the Transit Police PBA during the administration of Bill McKechnie.

Because of the COVID-19 restrictions, there was a private burial with the immediate family on Thursday, April 9th.

You can view the obituary on the funeral home website:  https://www.schmittfuneralhome.com/obituary/john-galvani

From Bill McKechnie:

It is with much personal grief and deep remorse that I report to you the passing of former PBA 2nd VP John Galvani.
John and I went back many years even before joining the Transit Police. We first met in 1961 as employees of the Irving Trust Company.  We joined the Department in June of ’65 and reunited.

When I ran for PBA President I asked John to join my team. John was a tenacious and outspoken fighter for the rights and benefits for the cops he served.  He was not the smoothest talker in the world by any  means , but he got his points across. There were many a time I thought he was going to go across the desk at a boss that disagreed with him. Thanks goodness he never did, physically that is, verbally he made his point in spades.  

John and I came in to the PBA together and we left together John went to work at the NYC Community Affairs dept and then the City’s Taxi and Limousine Commission.

In his later years John had some physical problems which probably contributed to his death the ultimate cause was pneumonia which was brought on by covid- 19.
John leaves behind his wife Stella and his two sons Michael and Darren their wives and grandchildren.  May he Rest in Peace. And may all those transit cops that traveled this course before him be prepared to welcome him in heaven.

Bill McKechnie

Dear New York City’s Finest:
This past weekend, we laid our father, former NYC Transit Police Officer Joseph Adamo, to rest. Our father was a forever police officer and wore his uniform proudly. Given the current health crisis and his sudden death as a result of COVID-19, there was nothing normal about the funeral services. Words cannot express what it meant to us to have the presence of an overwhelming number of Officers at St. Charles cemetery on Saturday. They stood tall, despite the rain, and lifted our spirits and brought great comfort to our family that includes three generations of New York City police officers. May you all never underestimate the impact your presence has at a time when Blue families need you most. Stay well and thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Kim Adamo Brussell, daughter of the late Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Joseph Adamo, who passed away on March 23rd.

A Thank you from members of the Transit Family.

From Charles McCray cemccray@aol.com

We regret to inform you that Alberta Mack, wife to Lifetime Member Ret. Sgt. Walter Mack passed on March 27th

More information will be forwarded when received.

Stay safe.
Charles

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Walter and the Mack family. May Alberta rest in peace.

From Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net 

RET. SGT. JANIS WOOD
3/27/1955 – 3/24/2020

I received a call from Christine McIntyre informing me that Janis had passed away this morning.  Janis lost her fight with cancer after giving it a good fight to beat it.  After speaking with Christine, I contacted ‘Woody,” Jan’s husband, to extend my condolences.  I had been in contact with Woody quite often over the past months where he would give me update on Janis’ condition.  He seemed very positive that she would beat it and requested prayers and letters to keep Jan’s spirit’s up which I was told did exactly that.  She was due to start chemo treatments a few weeks ago which had to be cancelled due to internal bleeding.  She was airlifted by helicopter to a hospital 4 hours away from their home in Oberlin, KS. She was at that hospital a couple of weeks and Woody stayed in the hospital with her the whole time.  I spoke with her a few times while she was in the hospital and you would never know she was suffering.  Her spirits were always up.  She was released from the hospital to return home, where she was place in Hospice care at home.

Unfortunately, I did not know Janis on the job.  I got to know her over the many years she attended the Florida reunions and from the NY reunions I attended.  She was a very nice girl, with a heart bigger the herself.  She was always there to help anyone that needed help.  She was active in many local organizations.  She “Loved the Transit Police”  She told me that she was going to get through this “because she was Transit”. 

I was told by Woody that Jan will be cremated and, at some point, he will return to Long Island where they will hold a Memorial Mass for her at the same church where their son Ryan’s funeral was held. When those plans are made I will forward the information.  My condolences to Woody.  I pray the Lord will comfort him during this sad time.  Condolences can be sent to Arthur Wood, PO Box 134 Oberlin KS 67749.  May Janis “Rest in Peace”

The above photo was taken at the Florida Reunion

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to Woody and their family. May Janis Rest in Peace.

We received this sad news from Ret. Sgt. Joe Sacrestano jsacrest@optonline.net

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. P.O. JOSEPH ADAMO
6/13/1942 - 03/23/2020

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member Ret. P.O. Joseph Adamo, today, March 23, 2020, at the age of 77 years. Joseph had contracted the coronavirus and was hospitalized last Friday when he developed pneumonia.

Joe was appointed to the Transit Police on June 30, 1969 and retired December 25, 1989. Joe's grandson just graduated from the NYPD Police Academy and his son-in-law is also a member of NYPD.

There is no viewing and a private burial service will take place at the cemetery in light of the current pandemic restrictions and the family asks that any donations be made to the Survivors of The Shield at www.survivorsoftheshield.org

Received 3/26 from Joe's daughter, Kim:
I just wanted to let you know that NYPD is sending officers for the burial on Saturday. We are so happy that my Dad will receive the honor he deserves. Thank you again.

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his wife, Arleen, and the Adamo family. The photo above was taken at a recent Romeo & Juliet luncheon.

Lou Hollander keystonecop1@verizon.net  received this obituary information from Gail Imhauser gimhauser@hotmail.com

RET. P.O. PEDRO GARCIA
10-15-1963 -MARCH 17, 2020

I received this obituary information from Gail Imhauser gimhauser@hotmail.com Pedro was appointed to NYCTPD 1/13/92

Lou,
My old partner, Pedro Garcia passed away. I worked with him for 6 or so years and only stopped working with him because I was promoted... we were very close. He was 56 years old. Worked in D2 and TMTF  (42&8). Hired in 92, retired in 2017, 25 years of service.

On March 7th he was admitted to NYU Langone. He was diagnosed with gastric cancer that had already metastasized into his bones and his brain. They had to put a shunt in his brain to relieve the pressure. He never regained consciousness and passed away on March 17th. This was an extremely aggressive cancer. It is 9/11 LOD pending approval from the medical and pension board. NYPD is treating it as a LOD death and his family is getting their full support.
Gail

Services took place on March 24th & 25th followed by interment at Evergreen Cemetery, 1629 Bushwick Ave., Brooklyn NY

Our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Garcia family. May Pedro Rest in Peace.

This is another instance when our mail has been returned and we find out that the member has passed away. In this case, mail to Lifetime Member Ret. Lt. Salvatore Russo was returned. I was able to contact his home and was asked to contact Sal's daughter, Maria Brown, which I did and she informed me that her father had passed away in September, 2012. The Association was never contacted before with this news.

LIFETIME MEMBER RET. LT. SALVATORE RUSSO
4/28/1923 - 9/30/2012

We regret to inform our members and fellow officers of the passing of Lifetime Member, Ret. Lt. Salvatore Russo, on September 30, 2012. Sal was appointed to the Transit Police on October 23, 1961 and retired November 2, 1981.