Charles J. Maniscalco was a graduate of Curtis High School in Staten Island and the College of Staten Island with a degree in business. He worked as a real estate broker on Staten Island for 38 years. He was a dedicated public servant, proudly serving for 35 years in the New York City Fire Department with the rank of lieutenant and as a veteran of the Army Reserve. His commitment to his country and community was unwavering.

Charles is preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Rose Mary Maniscalco. He is survived by his partner, Barbara Morello; his sons, Joseph (Alison) and Nicholas (Marie-Paule) Maniscalco; and his sister, Nina (Robert) Lambert. He also leaves behind three beloved grandchildren, Elizabeth, Charles, and Angela Maniscalco.

With a commanding presence, he could captivate an entire room with a single story, leaving everyone in stitches, holding their bellies with laughter. No matter how tired he was after work, he was always there when I needed him, whether that was for assistance with homework, teaching me to drive a car, or that time when I was 18 and had to make the call of shame after locking his keys in his car with the engine running. My father was fiercely loyal to his wife, Rose Mary; his partner, Barbara; his friends, family, and especially his grandchildren. He was so committed to his grandchildren that he wanted to confront their coaches every time they were taken out of a game for rest. His loyalty even showed in his determination to walk his dog, Lucy, no matter how sick, weak, or out of breath he was.

On September 11, 2001, I was working as a physical therapist. As soon as I arrived at work, we were all horrified to watch on TV as the first plane collided into the North Tower. I immediately knew we were under a terrorist attack, as my father had been on duty for the bombing attack on the towers in 1993. I quickly called him to see if he was okay and to find out what was going on. I was relieved to find out he was off duty that day and was safe. However, my relief was quickly put on hold as he explained he was going in to work because “his men” were in trouble and needed him.

Even after he badly injured his ankle, he did not give up and continued to do his job for many days as he searched for survivors. The physical and emotional injuries he sustained during this time remained with him for the rest of his life, yet he never complained. His bravery, selflessness, and dedication to serving others are just a few of the many qualities that made him an extraordinary person.