Background
The Dr Walter Wiechetek Foundation was an idea created by Doc Wick himself prior to his passing in 2020 (his friend knew him as Doc or Doc Wick). He created a framework for a foundation endowed with funds and art possessions from his Estate that would transfer upon his passing. It was his wish that those who knew him best shepherd the foundation and create a legacy of giving in his name. The Foundation is a 501c3 not for profit charity. Please take a moment to review our mission statement & board members.
Our Focus
Doc Wick was a lifelong Bayonne resident who also grew to love Cape May in the later half of his life. He was deeply invested in both communities and he enjoyed contributing and giving back. The Foundation continues that tradition in his name. Similar to Doc’s Life, we first began focusing on causes local to Bayonne such as The Bayonne Bridgemen, The Bayonne Historical Society, The Bayonne Library and supporting youth organizations. In 2026 the Foundation established a physical presence in Cape May that will enable us to house our art collection and begin to focus on the core areas of education, the arts, and science. This will enable the Foundation to turn it’s attention to focusing on the Cape May community as well.
Foundation Assets
The foundation was endowed with collectible items, preserved items and artwork from Dr Wick’s personal collection. These items are all associated with the following key subjects: the City of Bayonne, Culinary, Opera, Zeppelin Air Ships and Space. It is a primary mission of the Foundation to find suitable homes for all items where appropriate, or liquidate items where appropriate to fund charitable contributions and maintain the foundation.
You can see a sample of some of the assets the Foundation holds in our Artwork Archive