Michael Montesi Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

LOCATION

Highland Mills, New York

Meant to Be a Firefighter

Michael G. Montesi was a hero on two fronts, for 13 years with the Fire Department, and for 39 with his family.

As a member of Rescue Company 1 in Manhattan, he pondered the issues the unit faced and came up with solutions, said a colleague, Thor A. Johannessen, like a small air pack that could be strapped onto a trapped person's face, providing fresh air in smoky or poisonous conditions. They still carry those packs in the Rescue 1 truck.

At age 5 he owned a fire helmet, and he waited years for the call from the Fire Department that sent him to a ladder company in 1988, said his sister, Maria Lauria. "It was in his blood," she said.

It was as a firefighter that he met his wife, Nancy, when she and a friend stopped by a firehouse to ask for directions to the George Washington Bridge. They had Matthew, Ian and Ryan, now 7, 5 and 3, who adored him and would follow him around the yard, everyone carrying a weed whacker. "This is what it's all about," he would say.

The two older children were learning to play hockey, a sport he loved (he was a goalie), and he was their assistant coach. "You could depend on him," Mrs. Montesi said.

He was going to leave work early on Sept. 11; the boys had a game, and he promised them that he would be there.

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Posting Guidelines|FAQ

On 9/11, my family and I lived in Astoria, Queens. We were actually a family band at the time.
So touched by the sacrifices made that awful day, we determined to raise funds for Firefighters.
One day, as we visited a NYC Firehouse, I was given a red bracelet with Michael Montesi’s name. I have worn it every 9/11 anniversary since.
I also wait for his name to go by on the TV screen just to pay my respect to him and to you, his lovely family.
I am, and will forever...

Jeannie Veltz

September 17, 2023 | Nashville, TN | Friend

Mike was a great guy. Soft spoken kind a real gentleman. I had a locker right next to his and always remember what a kind soul he was. The news of his passing devastated the entire New Hyde Park community. I just attended the NHP gladiator golf outting where he was mentioned. We will never forget you Mike along with Mike LYNCH. God bless you and may he bless your family.

John Macri

September 17, 2023 | New Hyde Park, NY | Friend

I worked with my buddy George doing plumbing.Mike worked with him too some times.. I was a young Firefighter in Manhattan.I remember Mike walking over to me at work with his black turnout gear and black helmet, shaking hands and saying hi.He was a class act.A great man.I think about him often.

Joe Brady

September 15, 2023 | Work

I Stopped by the World Trade Center to visit your name on the 9-11 Memorial to remember you and thank you for your service as I always do when I am in lower Manhattan, Mike. May God continue to bless you and your family always.

New Hyde Park Class of 1980

February 12, 2023

I pay tribute to you every year Michael even though we aren't related and have never met. You are a true hero! Montesi strong!

Jamie Montesi

September 11, 2021

As I have every year, on this 20 year Anniversary, I wear the bracelet to honor you and your family.

Jeanne Veltz

September 11, 2021

My maiden name was Linda Montesi. So sorry for your loss. Trying to see if we are related? My email is [email protected]

Linda Montesi Schirtzinger

September 09, 2021

Michael was a cousin that I never met. I was in my 1st year of Navy service when 9/11 happened. I know the personal motivation I felt to do my part to make the world a safer place at that moment and I can only imagine from what I hear about Michael that he felt this way since childhood, and on this day, he jumped into action. I wish I had had the chance to meet him. On that day, he, like so many other professionals and civilians alike, put his own safety aside to run and help those who needed...

Chris B.

August 30, 2021 | Family