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Christoffer Carstanjen, 33, a victim on Flight 175, was a computer research specialist for the University of Massachusetts, a trained chef, a fan of English country dancing, and a motorcycle enthusiast who built his own house with friends.

One of his nicknames was "Mr. Wonderful."

His uncle, Jan Carstanjen, said his nephew moved through life with a certain joy, relishing the chance to try new things. Christoffer Carstanjen, who lived in Turner Falls, Mass., was headed to California on vacation when his plane hit the World Trade Center.

"He was kind-hearted," his uncle said. "We're going to miss him very much."
Profile courtesy of THE CHICAGO TRIBUNE.

'Mr. Wonderful'

Humorist. Gardener. Motorcycle enthusiast. Philosopher. That is how Christoffer M. Carstanjen liked to be known. His nickname for himself was "Mr. Wonderful" and the line he most identified with was from the filmmaker Federico Fellini: "There is no end. There is no beginning. There is only the infinite passion of life."

These and other statements he posted on his personal Web site (www-unix.oit. umass.edu/ccarstan/default2.html).

"Listen and surround yourself with positive people," advised Mr. Carstanjen, who worked in the technology office at the University of Massachusetts. The proud owner of a 1998 Honda PC800, Mr. Carstanjen, 34, was aboard United Airlines Flight 175 en route to join other bikers for a ride up the California coast.

His to-do list for the future: "Build another home. More schooling in the evenings. (Never stop learning!) Start a college or a learning/living center for elders. Build that boat, then another one! Learn to sail."

Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 1, 2001.