HEART OF SAILING MOURNS LOSS OF VOLUNTEER, CAPTAIN DANIEL P. BERGIN

Sailor and adventurer Daniel P. Bergin drowned during a storm on Friday Oct. 18, while kiteboarding on Lake Washington in Seattle. “Captain Dan” was born in Rochester, New York on November 18, 1960. His father taught him to sail on the many lakes in upstate New York. Captain Dan went on to graduate from the US Naval Academy and became a naval aviator. Most recently, he had put his career as a commercial pilot for Delta Air Lines on hold so he could pursue his dream of sailing around the world. He was residing temporarily in Seattle after having sailed his beloved 53 ft ketch Papa II (named after his father) from Venezuela to Seattle. Captain Dan’s life revolved around his passion for adventure and outdoor recreation. In addition to being a sailing instructor, he was a mountain climber and avid skier, having scaled Mount Rainier an impressive five times. Captain Dan shared his enthusiasm for skiing and sailing through his volunteer work. He had been a skiing instructor for the disabled skiing center in Park City, Utah (his permanent residence).

Last year, Captain Dan was instrumental in helping Heart of Sailing with its Seattle Ambassador program, by volunteering his time and boat (PAPA) for the Maiden Voyages of Heart of Sailing’s Daysail program for that region.

HOS has fond memories of his volunteerism and expresses our sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Captain Dan.