Tim was a gentle giant and larger than life to all that knew him, so we felt that naming the foundation Tim Bear Foundation was only fitting. Tim always had a good heart and willing to do a favor for people. Timothy M. Bergin started his life in Maspeth, N.Y. as the oldest of 7 children. As a child, Tim spent many summers at Rockaway Beach, where his love for the sand and ocean began. He loved it so much that later in life he got an apartment in Rockaway for sometime before moving back to Maspeth.

 

The Bear, Tim's nickname, has a niece with special needs and her first trip to the beach was because of Tim. He had helped his brother and sister-in-law bring her there.  When he saw how hard it was for them to get her to the beach, he began to look for an easier way. After some research he found a beach wheelchair to help them cut through the sand and allowed her to get down to feel the ocean and hear the waves crash on the shore. After seeing her face, Tim suggested that someone needs to open a store that rented or sold beach wheelchairs.

 

After his sudden passing, we were inspired to start the foundation to continue his wish. Tim was also a Police Officer for the N.Y.P.D who assisted to help in the Rescue and Recovery operations at Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks at the former World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Tim was a member of the N.Y.P.D. Emerald Society (Past President) he was also a member of the Holy Name Society and Knights of Columbus Hudson Council #3701. Timothy passed on December 20, 2020 due to 9/11 illness.  His life was cut way too short at the age of 47.