Remembering David Bernacchi: A Life Devoted to Helping Others

Nassau Remembering David Bernacchi: A Life Devoted to Helping Others By Allison Matos … Comments Posted on November 12, 2026 David Bernacchi, founder of Pets4Luv passed away suddenly in late October. Pets4Luv For David Bernacchi, founder of Pets4Luv , helping others was never about recognition or praise; it was simply who he was. Whether rescuing an abandoned animal or lending a hand to someone in need, Bernacchi always put others first. His sudden passing in late October has left a void in the animal rescue community and in the lives of those who knew him. “He lived his life 100% for others, and I don’t even know that he realized he did it,” said Denise Klass, Bernacchi’s life partner and a board member of the rescue. “He was the most caring, supportive, humble person.” Klass first met Bernacchi about eight years ago after a friend discovered a litter of kittens abandoned beneath a bush. Of the many people contacted for help, Bernacchi was the one who stepped forward. He welcomed the kittens, providing testing, flea baths and necessary treatments without ever asking for anything in return. That first encounter eventually led Klass to volunteer at the rescue, where she and Bernacchi grew closer. Bernacchi’s compassion for animals began in childhood. At only 6 years old, his mother taught him how to care for and bottle-feed orphaned baby squirrels, a lesson that sparked a lifelong commitment to helping animals in need. Throughout the years, Bernacchi worked as a Long Island Lighting Company lineman and at one point owned a comic book store. By the mid-to-late 2000s, animal rescue had become his full-time commitment, and Pets4Luv was born. An entirely volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue, Pets4Luv began in Massapequa before moving to the Mall at the Source in Westbury. Its most recent endeavor was the acquisition of Bobbi and the Strays , a Freeport-based rescue. The rescue’s mission remains the same: to rehabilitate and rehome animals that are injured, ill, disabled or elderly. Pets4Luv also focuses on educating the public about companion animals’ illnesses, medical conditions and disabilities to dispel misconceptions. By making this information more readily available, the rescue aims to help animals with special needs find permanent homes. According to Klass, Bernacchi’s generosity reached far beyond animal rescue. “He would quietly pay restaurant bills for struggling families, he bought coffee for police officers, filled Christmas wish lists for people in need and always showed up for friends and family,” she said. “He never looked for glory. When people publicly praised him for a rescue, he often said he wished they had credited the organization instead. His priority was helping others, not drawing attention to himself.” Bernacchi’s final act of generosity reflected the way he had lived: as an organ donor, he saved three lives. Although his loss is deeply felt, Bernacchi’s work will continue. Pets4Luv currently cares for approximately 40 cats and seven dogs and welcomes donations, volunteers, foster caregivers and adopters. Food donations are also needed, particularly for animals on special diets. A memorial fundraiser and adoption event are being planned in Bernacchi’s honor, with details to be announced on Pets4Luv’s Facebook page. About the Author All comments are subject to our Community Guidelines . Schneps Media does not endorse the views shared by readers in our comment sections.