As has become my annual tradition on 9/11, I will take the time to remember and know Raymond Rocha from Melrose Mass. Ray was lost in the World Trade Center as he started his day at work for Cantor Fitzgerald. I've read the stories of his life, the comments from his community and felt the loss of family and friends. He was the All America kid!
Ray was a 1990 graduate of Melrose High School; an honor student, an athlete and a good friend.
According to Ray’s mother, Ann, her son would write those two words wherever he could — typed on unattended computers for users to find upon their return, scribbled on notebooks and even etched into wet concrete. Through his friends and family Ray continues to "live."
Rocha played football in high school and at Brown University before moving to New York City. His number is retired at the Melrose High football field, and a replica of his jersey was placed in a wall at the middle school. Rocha wore number 17.
Rocha accomplished much in his too-brief life. After excelling at Melrose High, he stood out at Brown University academically and athletically, and eventually took a job with prestigious financial firm Cantor Fitzgerald as a bond trader, working on the 105th floor of the World Trade Center’s North Tower.
Above all Ray was a friend ... He once told his friend, Andrea:
"our lives were shaped by each other, through thick and thin--we will always be there for each other, friend."
Those who wish may send donations in Ray Rocha's memory to either of the two scholarship funds:
The Ray Rocha Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Friends of Melrose Football, P.O. Box 1461, Melrose, MA 02176; or The Ray Rocha Scholarship Fund, c/o Melrose High School, 360 Lynn Fells Parkway, Melrose, MA 02176.
To particpate in Project 2,996 and honor someone lost go to: http://project2996.wordpress.com/
thank you for remembering Raymond. Never forget.
Posted by: Cathy | September 11, 2011 at 10:49 AM