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Marianne Simone Date of Birth: March 4, 1939 Position: Communications Specialist Marianne was a mother of three, Teresa, Lisa, and Stephen, and grandmother to Bradley, Krystal, Christopher, Alexis, Nicole, and Michael. She was proud of herself. She was beautiful. She was so concerned about her family, so loving, so fun loving. She was scheduled to move into a beautiful new condo on a country club and retire near her family and friends. Any day spent with her was like an adventure. She reminded us of “I Love Lucy.” She always had a funny story or was in the middle of some hilarious situation. Ex coworkers at Cantor have told us that if they could write a book about their experiences at Cantor, a whole chapter would be dedicated to Marianne! They looked forward to work just to see her antics. Her family looked forward to every weekend and holidays with her. She was the life of the party and the soul of our family. She was our mom and our friend and we miss her so much that our hearts just ache. We love you Marianne, Mommy, Grandma Meena!!
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Michael John Simon Date of Birth: July 27, 1961 Position: Energy Broker Michael John Simon, born July 27 1961 to the late Charles and PeggyAnn Simon of Rye, NY has tragically passed to his eternal rest on September 11, 2001. His wife, Eileen (neé Isacsen), their children, Brittany Radcliffe, Michael John Jr., and Tyler Ingram have been robbed of a devoted husband and loving father. Family and friends will grievously mourn this supportive, moral man of great character. Growing up in Rye, NY, Michael graduated in 1979 from Rye Country Day School. He then attained a degree from Hobart College in Economics and Religion. He was an outstanding athlete in ice hockey, lacrosse, tennis and golf. Michael also completed a cross-country cycling trip from Seattle, WA to Geneva, NY. Michael continued his love of athletics through coaching his children’s teams in soccer, softball and baseball in Harrington Park, NJ. He never missed a game or a school function. Michael also leaves behind: a brother, Scott (Margaret) Simon; sisters Christine Coats, Kathleen and Patricia Simon and Brother in-law E. Craig Coats; his in-laws, Barbara and James Romaine, Cathleen and Robert Isacsen, as well as, Kristen and Christopher Klass, Elise and Spiros Polikaterous, Bridget and Robert DiMartini, Kathryn Isasen, James and Fiona Romaine and Lenore and Mark Goley. His parents, as well as his brother in-law Scott Romaine have predeceased him. Michael leaves behind twenty-two adoring and devastated nieces and nephews and grieving aunts and uncles, Mary Ellen and Martin White, Madeleine and Bill Becker and George Aufderheid. The whole community of Harrington Park, his Wall Street business associates and clients will surely miss Michael. The premature loss of such a wonderful individual so loved and respected by all that knew him is society’s loss. In lieu of flowers a special fund in remembrance to Michael has been established for his three children. Please send donations to: COLLEGE BOUND FUND, Care of Scott Simon 95 Ferris Hill Road New Caanan, CT 06840. Eileen’s Eulogy: This Mass is being held in celebration of Michael’s life- and there is so much to celebrate! Others will speak of his warmth, caring, sincerity, honesty; his sense of duty, obligation, commitment, fair play; his sense of humor and his ever present smile. Let me speak of my time spent with him. Michael could be counted on. Michael could be leaned on. Michael was my pillar. Because of his great love for his family, Michael had his priorities straight. As a parent he had tremendous patience. He involved himself in every aspect of his children’s lives– always, but always being there. He took them to Church; coached their teams; he helped them with homework; he took them to the pool! Michael made Sunday morning pancakes and ordered from Rudi’s Friday nights. He handled all of our finances. I bet your wondering what I did. So am I. Michael especially loved coaching. He actually started coaching children while he was in High School and picked it up again when he had his own children. He recognized the special ability each child offered and played them to bring out the best in his teams. I remember working my way over to Michael, rather inconspicuously I thought and saying, “Why are you putting that relatively inexperienced player in that position?” Michael turned to me, and in a loud exaggerated manner said, “You don’t like me putting who – where?” That was the beginning and end of my helping Michael coach. Because of Michael’s great love for me Brittany, MJ and Tyler, he could do the impossible. Not once, not twice but three times he was able to pick himself up, start all over again and work with such diligence until he was once again at the top professionally. Michael sensed he was to die soon. He settled his household. He said farewell to so many of us without our realizing it. He gave us so much of his strength that he knows we will be able to carry on. Thank you God, and Jimmy John for leading Michael to me. Thank you for our three wonderful children, Brittany, MJ and Tyler, the light of your life, the joy of your being, through whom you will live on. Thank you God for our incredible family, friends and community, it was due to their outpouring of love and support that enabled us to survive this time. Michael left this world at the top of his profession in the full bloom of manhood- handsome and strong, not only in body, but in mind and spirit as well. Michael, you know you will always be in our hearts and you will be a presence to forever share our lives. You were the love of my life. Thank you, Michael—– for being Michael.
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Kenneth Alan Simon Date of Birth: July 12, 1967 Position: Equities Trader Dear Maya, How can I tell you about your father, Kenneth Alan Simon? Daddy was born in Brooklyn, New York in July of 1967. He was the first of four children for your Grandparents, Grandma Susie & Grandpa Arthur. After graduating from North Rockland H.S., he attended SUNY Binghamton, where he obtained his degree in Economics. In 1994, Daddy took a position with Cantor Fitzgerald. He loved working there, he loved his job, he loved his colleagues, but most of all he loved the fact that he could work hard all day and still make it home early enough to spend time with you, me and Bailey. I first met your Dad in September, 1994. We became friends instantly. We laughed a lot and always talked about our feelings. He had a special gift of being kind to everyone and the ability to give strength to others, he had incredible patience and always made everyone feel at ease. We were friends for a long time, and one wonderful evening in June of 1996, at the South Street Seaport in NYC, Daddy kissed me and I knew at that moment that I was going to marry him. In the first weekend in September, 2001, we took you to that special place where our first kiss took place. We both wanted to share it with you. It was a very special time for the three of us. I loved your Father more than I thought I could ever love anyone. We were each other’s Best Friend. From the time we began dating, we talked about having children. Maya, you were in our hearts long before you were born. We got married in October of 1998 and decided to start our family right away. We hoped and prayed for a baby just like you. Our dreams came true when you entered our lives. Seeing you Father hold you for the first time was a moment we shared that will never be forgotten. Daddy melted when he held you and never wanted to let you go. In the four short months that you had together, you brought a lifetime of happiness to your Dad. At your baby naming service, your Father said these wonderful words, “It has been quite a journey…some highs and some lows, but in the end all that matters is what we have in our arms and what we have in our hearts. We are so happy to have the opportunity to begin another journey with our Maya Rose…now we get to see her first smile, hear her first giggle and feel her first hugs and kisses. We look forward to teaching her new things and we also can’t wait to learn from her.” Maya, you have taught me to be strong for the both of us. Our path of learning must continue together, you and me, hand in hand. We have the love of others to help us and we need to depend on good friends and family to share stories about Daddy that I may not know. Daddy’s legacy will live on in our hearts along with our family… Grandma Susie, Bubbie, Zaddie, Great Grandma Lil, Great Grandma Rose, Aunt Jenn, Uncle Todd, Aunt Beth, Aunt Mandy, Uncle Joe, Aunt Linda, Uncle Steve, Aunt Allison, Uncle Michael, Cousins Jaquelin, Phillip & Riley and Bailey. September 11, 2001 took away two very special people in our lives, Grandpa Arthur Simon and your Daddy, Kenneth Alan Simon. Know that they will always be a part of us in everything we do. Love, Mommy
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Valerie Silver Ellis Date of Birth: July 4, 1955 Position: Partner, Institutional Equities Trader From Val’s journal 2/7/83: “Back in NYC again. I’ve survived Cantor’s training program and transcended the LA/Cantor boys by being me. By being a team player, listening, giving, being warm and strong. I am learning more and more about the business. This is a talent I have.” And so began Val’s association with Cantor Fitzgerald. Born of the 4th of July, she lived the “American Dream.” She was “Auntie Val” to her family and lots of others. A quick mind and quicker tongue, there was no fear she could not overcome, no height she could not reach and no joke she would not entertain. Val created laughter and shared that laughter. You could always expect the unexpected from her. (Funny, poignant and bawdy stories upon request.) Val found a way to share tears as well and turn them into smiles that grew to laughter. She improved on what she found and created what she could not find. She created herself and her own world. She succeeded in that world and generously shared that success. She was direct, creative, exacting and very smart and she always knew just what to say and no one, no one got in her way. Was she a saint? I think not, she didn’t try to be. Was she real? I think so, and that is what we should all strive to be. No longer can we “Ask Val” but instead we must ask, “What would Val have done?” Then………..just do it!!!!!
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Robert J Shay, Jr. Date of Birth: June 23, 1974 Position: Bond Broker There are so many things we miss about you. We miss hearing your voice and the sound of your infectious laughter. We miss talking to you about nothing and acting goofy with you, we miss you at family parties and get togethers. But most of all we miss you in our every day life. You left us with three wonderful children that remind us of you in every way. Robert shares your mannerisms from the way he dances to the way he performs for everyone. Ryan has your husky build and if you dyed his blonde hair brown he would be the spitting image of you. And Jonathan he is such a happy beautiful baby. It breaks our hearts when he points to your picture and says “Da Da.” It is so unfortunate that he never was able to meet his father. We are all grateful to have grownup in such a close family. None of us grew up and moved far away. We all remained close. But now one of us is missing and we will forever be incomplete. There are so many things left unsaid. We all assumed that we would have a long time to be in each others lives, to watch our families grow, and to see the next generation of weddings and babies. We think of you all the time with sadness in our hearts. We hope that you are happy in heaven and that you are looking over and giving strength to the many people who miss you terribly.
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Khalid Shahid Date of Birth: May 3, 1976 Position: NT Systems Administrator Khalid is the beloved son of Syed and Leonor Shahid, big brother of Jaffer and Fatima Shahid, devoted fiancé of Jamie Castro, and missed cousin and nephew of countless family members. He was born, raised and still resided in Union, New Jersey. At the tender age of 25, his job at Cantor was just the beginning of a successful career in the field of computers that he loved so dearly. Khalid enjoyed many happy times with his family, fiancee and a very close-knit group of friends. He was an avid sportsman, but never let that get in the way of helping those he loved. His absence has left a void that will never be filled because his presence in our lives was so great. He will always be missed, but never forgotten because he has left such a lasting impression on all our lives. Khalid has taught us all how to laugh out loud, love unconditionally, strive for the best, love our family, be honest, give of yourself, never waste time and always say how you feel. We are at peace with the fact that he is in divine glory and that he is watching and protecting those that cherish him. Khalid’s family and friends will always remember his contagious smile and will hold his beautiful memories close to our hearts.
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Jayesh Shah Date of Birth: April 17, 1963 Position: Vice President, TradeSpark Energy Products Let me close my eyes. The first thing that comes to my mind is that amazing smile, which makes me grin from ear to ear. And I wonder what is the next naughty/mischievous surprise that awaits me? There was never a dull moment in my life with Jay. He was fearless and full of energy. He loved traveling, sports, movies; the list goes on and on. From the moment our eyes met, we knew we were meant for each other and that still holds true in my heart. Not only did I lose my husband, but I lost a soul mate and my best friend. He believed in making the best out of each moment of life. He lived his life to the fullest. Working at eSpeed on the 103rd floor of the World Trade Center in New York City was a dream come true for him. He was on the top of the world. His happiness knew no boundaries. We are extremely proud of his achievements. I’m glad to be part of his success in life and in the “real world”. While climbing the ladder of success he never forgot his family. He was a true family man; an incredible, awesome, devoted daddy to our three children: Nikita 10, Sonia 8, Kevin 6. With children he was the world’s biggest child. With parents and brother, he was the perfect son and an awesome big brother. For me, he was a wonderful, caring, loving partner every girl dreams about. Now without him, I am a walking, talking, breathing, beating heart that has lost its rhythm. And someday when I wake up I just want to see his beautiful smiling face. My dear, Even though I didn’t have a chance to say goodbye, I just want to tell you, “you taught me how to love, trust and give completely. Thank you for giving us wonderful memories to last a lifetime. And the finest lesson of life, love goes on forever and ever, no matter the distance and time.” You will always be in our hearts and our love for you is eternal. Until we meet again, Goodbye. Jyothi Nikita, Sonia, Kevin (u r our guardian Angel, Daddy)
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Adele C Sessa Date of Birth: September 4, 1965 Department: International Trading Adele always smiled and was the best dressed at Cantor. She was a hard worker and extremely generous. She will be in our hearts forever.
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Matthew C. Sellitto Date of Birth: September 30, 1977 Position: Trading Desk From the moment of his birth, Matthew Carmen Sellitto was a very special person. After raising only daughters, he was the first grandchild in the DiGiovanni family and the first grandson after five granddaughters in the Sellitto family. From the first day of his life, Matthew has been pure joy and he loved everybody. There is no one too young, too old, too poor, too dirty, too uneducated. These labels and stereotypes simply did not exist for Matthew. For a young man he had an uncanny sense of self-he knew his essence and he never comprised that. From the time he took his first Economics class at Seton Hall Prep, Matthew knew he wanted to sit at a trading desk. While attending the University of Vermont, he interned for two years at Paine Webber, South Burlington, VT, where he would do anything from cold calling to making coffee. As far as he was concerned, he was in his element. After graduating with a BA in Economics, Matthew, 23, started working for Cantor as a trainee in the interest rate derivative group, booking rate options, in March 2001. In only a matter of months, he was promoted to medium-term interest rate swaps trader and was assigned his own client base on September 10. How proud he was that night-he knew he was on his way to his dream and couldn’t be happier. His parents and brother, Jonathan, wish Matthew to be remembered for his humility and sincerity. Power, position or place never altered his opinion. Whether on a golf course with associates, or standing next to the grubbiest person at a Grateful Dead concert, he knew he was in a place of honor. Matthew carried his honor and nobility with him. Yet, when it was time, as he always told his family, “Don’t worry, when the time is right, I’ll know just what I have to do.” And he did! He traded his skateboard for a Brooks Brothers suit and still stayed happy in both worlds.
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Jason M. Sekzer Date of Birth: June 5, 1970 Position: VP, ITD Trade Support How do you describe perfection? My husband Jason Sekzer, was like the rookie card found in a baseball card deck. He was compassionate, responsible, loyal, tender, and loved life. He was a diamond in the Ruff and a true gentleman. He held the door for a lady, he helped the elderly cross the street and he had the embrace that could soothe a crying baby. Jason was a man of his convictions. He always stood by what he believed in. His integrity and honesty was what he lived by. If you asked him to do something, he would climb Mt. Everest to get it done, without ever complaining. He was truly a noble man. In the 31 years of his life his accomplishments were far and great. Jason began his career with Cantor Fitzgerald in 1996 as a clerk. Within a couple of years he quickly was promoted to VP of Operations. In January of 2001, his hard work and dedication was rewarded by his promotion to Vice President of IT Trade Support. He was traveling down the road of success rapidly but unfortunately, was forced to leap off his path. Jason grew up in Sunnyside, Queens, NY. He was a wonderful and loving son. If his father told him to stay of the street, Jason would stand at the curb and watch his friends play (even when dad was nowhere to be found). Jason was the epitome of a big brother. He and his brother were the loyalist fans of the New York Rangers and New York Yankees. They witnessed the 1994 Rangers Stanley Cup Championship together-and watched many Yankee games, whether it was from the living room sofa or the Yankee bleachers. Many times I asked Jason, “Do we have to watch this game”? He would reply, “Yes, because it makes a difference”…And it always did. Jason was loved dearly by his many circles of friends. He had close relationships to many of his Sunnyside childhood friends as well as friends he made at Camp Sussex Summer Camp, the place where Jason and I fell in love. On September 11th, my life along with our family and friends shattered into little pieces. Our lives will never be whole again. Our priceless treasure has been taken from us. My dearest love, you will always have my heart and soul. We have been robbed of the beautiful future we were supposed to have together. I will treasure the memories you have given me. You will always hold the key to my heart. “In my dreams I’ll always see you soar above the sky, in my heart there’ll always be a place for you for all my life – I’ll keep a part of you with me, and everywhere I am there you’ll be”. All my love, Natasha
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