The Front Line Foundation presented a $20,000 death benefit to the widow of St. Paul firefighter Timothy Bertz, who died unexpectedly days after graduating from the department’s academy

By Mara H. Gottfried
Pioneer Press

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The widow of a St. Paul firefighter who recently died unexpectedly was surprised Friday by the Front Line Foundation, which presented her with a $20,000 death benefit.

Timothy Bertz, 52, graduated from the St. Paul Fire Department academy on Dec. 17, worked at the training facility on Dec. 19, and had a sudden and major medical event at home on Saturday, Dec. 20, according to the fire department. He died at the hospital on Dec. 22.

“Bertz dedicated his life to protecting others with courage, humility and an unwavering sense of duty,” the Front Line Foundation said in a statement. “He was a U.S. Navy veteran and proudly served with the Harris, Lino Lakes and St. Paul fire departments. Even after death, Bertz continued his legacy of service through organ donation — gifting four people vital organs and countless others through donated tissue.”

Andrea and Tim Bertz would have celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary the day after his memorial service.

“It is our privilege to help lift the financial burden from the Bertz family during this incredibly difficult time,” said Suzanne Holt, the foundation’s president and executive director. “Bertz was the epitome of a public servant and his lifetime dedication to helping others should not — and will not — be forgotten.”

Started in 2018, the Front Line Foundation has paid $655,000 to family members of fallen Minnesota first responders.

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