On View in the Memorial Exhibition: Charles Alan Zion’s Needlework

Among the items on display at the 9/11 Memorial Museum’s In Memoriam exhibition is a piece of needlework belonging to Charles Alan Zion. It's a testament to his wide-ranging interests and passion for life.

“He once shared with me his thinking: ‘Happiness is a byproduct of success,’” his younger sister, Barbara Zion-Green, remembered. “Chuck was happy, successful, full of life, and as always, Chuck lived life big.” Charles loved to play golf, drink Wild Turkey bourbon, and grill steaks while wearing his favorite apron and signature bandana.

Born in Rochester in 1947 to Rabbi Martin and Jane Zion, Charles and his family eventually moved to Great Neck, Long Island, then to Davenport, Iowa. They settled down in New York City when Charles was about 12 years old so Martin could be the chief rabbi at Temple Israel of the City of New York.

“Chuck, at 16 years old, was experienced in driving cars, playing endless rounds of golf, and spending time with his friends,” his sister said. “The idea of living in Manhattan was not so attractive. Chuck took this challenge as he did all others, with strength, humor, determination, and a chance to explore, learn, and find where the fun was to be had.”

Charles went on to become an equities trader and a senior vice president at the global financial services firm Cantor Fitzgerald. Charles had many hobbies that helped him relax after a demanding day on the job; among them were golfing, cooking, and knitting.

A knitted square and one partially complete knitted square that Charles was working on before his death are on display at the 9/11 Memorial Museum. The needle he was using is still attached to the needlework.

Charles was working at his job on the 103rd floor of the North Tower that day. He was 54 years old.

By 9/11 Memorial Staff