By Laura Lane
The 51-year-old, a New York Fire Department battalion chief, was one of the first to respond to the Sept. 11 attacks.
DeAngelis was proud to be a firefighter, and felt it was his responsibility to help others. Equally committed to his family, he was the father of three children, Clarke High School student Nicole, Tommy and Christine, who had made him a proud grandfather only two years earlier, giving birth to a granddaughter, Dana.
Family, friends and co-workers continue to miss the man who lost his life that day when he sacrificed himself to save other lives.
Patty DeAngelis, Thomas's wife, felt a need to memorialize her husband in some way. She spent many hours considering the possibilities, keeping in mind what her husband would have liked, careful to remember his personality and demeanor, which she described as humble and private. After much deliberation, Patty decided to contact Hempstead Town Councilman Gary Hudes (R-Levittown) to request his assistance.
"It was the spring of 2002 when Gary Hudes visited our home and introduced me to the idea of the street dedication," Patty said. "Initially I wasn't keen about it, but I thought about it. I decided this would be a nice honor for my husband, and it will always bring a good feeling and memory."
Patty said her daughter Nicole was thrilled when she learned of her mother's decision. She also had the support of other family members and her neighbors on March Lane.
"When I went to see Pat DeAngelis, I could see the absolute love that this family possessed for each other, the feelings, the heartache," Hudes said. "When I left, I was very touched by just talking about this man who I had never met. I understood why people should remember him."
Hudes spoke to Town Supervisor Kathleen Murray (R-Levittown), who had already seen to 12 other Sept. 11 street dedications in other Hempstead neighborhoods. Hudes said she was very supportive. However, he wanted to add another component to the sign. Hudes added graphics to the left of DeAngelis' name, which depict the Twin Towers and a red shield with the numbers 911 in the center.
"My intention was when people go by that sign, they know why Thomas DeAngelis' name is there," Hudes said. "This street naming will always inspire questions and inquiries. Strangers walking or driving by will see it and ask residents, 'Who is Thomas DeAngelis? Why did they name a street for him?' This sign will be a reminder that people never forget."
When the sign was unveiled, everyone prayed together. Some wept as well. After standing for a few moments to look at the new sign, people began to drift away. Many stopped by Patty's house for coffee. She appreciated their support. Patty wanted to give them something too.
