McWilliams, Martin

Martin Edward McWilliams never wanted to be in the spotlight. He spent his life quietly doing for others‚ asking nothing in return. He was never one to anger and whenever called for advice or assistance‚ his response was always willing and helpful. He loved working with his hands and was always doing something‚ from working on a car to landscaping or renovating a house. No matter what the project‚ as a way to keep connected there was always a 2 to 5% not completed.

Martin’s relationship with his mother‚ Mary‚ brother‚ Joe and two sisters‚ Barbara and Lynn was one of love‚ respect and concern. He loved family gatherings‚ especially the annual family reunion with his aunts‚ uncles and many cousins. The unconditional love he had for his family carried over in his love for his daughter‚ Sara‚ born shortly before September 11‚ 2001.

Like his father before him‚ he enjoyed living and absorbed everything life had to offer. Martin was not afraid to try anything‚ including flying lessons and skydiving. Martin had a passion for golf and participated in the many charity outings with his friends in New York City Fire Department and his love of water skiing with his lifelong friends.

As an avid skier he couldn’t wait for the winter season to go skiing at his favorite place in Vermont. Martin enjoyed cooking and his Chicken Franchese’ was a family favorite. He had almost mastered making an apple pie‚ just like Mom.

Martin appreciated humor and when he tried to tell a joke‚ his blue eyes would sparkle and a male Mona Lisa smile would appear on his face because he knew he had messed up the punch line‚ but that wasn’t important‚ it was the company and the laughing that he enjoyed. He looked forward to going to work and formed close relationships with friends and co-workers in Engine 22/Ladder 13.