Raising Awareness. Funding Research. Saving Lives.
Raising Awareness. Funding Research. Saving Lives.
Though his life was brief, it was filled with meaning. He was a proud father to his two children, Olivia and Thomas, and a devoted husband to his soulmate, Christina. He worked for the International Longshoremen Association Local 1814, taking immense pride in both his career and the close-knit union community.
TJ always prioritized family above all else. His deep connection with his father and his protective nature toward his mother were undeniable. He made it a point to remain actively involved as an uncle, brother, son, and cousin. Above all, his lifelong friendships were a testament to his loyalty. His family will forever feel the void of his absence, as he was an integral part of their lives.
TJ had a magnetic energy that drew people in. He had a special knack for making others laugh effortlessly. While many would describe him as a goofball, he preferred to call himself “awkward.” The most remarkable thing about TJ was his unwavering willingness to do anything for those he loved. His love was evident in his actions—he was always the first to offer help in any way possible.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) often goes undiagnosed because its symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions. TJ had been diagnosed with anxiety and made lifestyle changes, like cutting out coffee, without knowing he had a heart condition. HCM is a genetic disease that thickens the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.
The purpose of this event is to raise awareness about how easily HCM can be overlooked, as it was in TJ’s case. Since it is a hereditary condition, it has prompted family members to undergo genetic testing. Tragically, TJ’s daughter, Olivia, tested positive for the gene. The funds raised will support the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA) in advancing research and providing resources for families like theirs.
TJ’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched, especially within his family. He deserves to be remembered in a special way, doing what he loved most—golf. Those who truly knew him understood that he was simply the best. September 23rd will be a day to honor and celebrate his remarkable life. We deeply appreciate your love and support, and we hope TJ’s story raises awareness for at least one person, if not more.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF THOMAS “TJ” DIMARCO JR.
LEARN ABOUT TJ
About The Foundation
The TJ DiMarco Foundation was born from love, loss, and the unshakable belief that one story can save another.
When we lost TJ DiMarco to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)—a silent, genetic heart condition we didn’t even know he had—it changed our lives forever. But in that grief, we found a mission: to raise awareness, drive early detection, and fund research through the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association (HCMA), so that no other family has to suffer the same unimaginable heartbreak.
The Foundation exists not just to honor TJ’s memory, but to carry his light forward. He was a man who showed up for everyone—family, friends, coworkers, and his community. And now, we show up for him by giving this cause a voice.
Through fundraising events like our annual golf outing, we’re building something bigger than a day on the course—we’re building awareness, connection, and change. We are advocates, educators, and a support system for those impacted by HCM. Every dollar raised goes directly toward HCMA’s life-saving efforts, from community education to genetic testing access.
We know first-hand how crucial early detection can be. TJ’s passing led to his daughter’s genetic testing—and because of that, she now receives the care she needs. This is why our mission matters.
The TJ DiMarco Foundation is more than a tribute—it’s a promise. A promise to protect families. A promise to amplify the urgency around HCM. And a promise to keep TJ’s legacy alive through action, compassion, and heart.