Elmer DaRe

E. Alfred “Al” DaRe, 96, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his daughter’s home in NJ on Thursday, October 9, 2025. Born in Allentown, he was the son of Joseph and Maria (Bett) DaRe.

He was the husband of MaryLouise (Danko) DaRe with whom he shared over 67 years of marriage after meeting on the dance floor eight years prior.

Al served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean War in the Second Armored Division. Before and after, he worked along side his father and brother as a bricklayer, later obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from the Pennsylvania State University. He was an Engineer and Project Manager at Bethlehem Steel for many decades before his retirement in 1991.

He was an avid reader, movie-goer, golfer and traveler, his curiosity and pursuit of knowledge always present. He was an exceptional husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. His sense of humor and unique outlook on life were always front and center and known to all.  Al was a member of Notre Dame Catholic Church in Bethlehem.

He is survived by his wife MaryLouise, sons Jay DaRe (and Laurie), T.J. DaRe and daughter Michelle “Missy” DaRe (and John Ketner), grandchildren Andrew and Alex, Jules and Savannah, to whom he was “Nonno”, as well as many nieces and nephews to whom he was “Uncle Manny.” He was predeceased by his brother Dominic (Mink) and sister Liz Fegley.

There will be a calling period on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 1861 Catasauqua Rd, Bethlehem, from 9-10 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10 a.m. Interment to follow Mass at St. Lawrence Cemetery in North Catasauqua.

Online memories and condolences for the family may be shared at www.brubakerfuneralhome.com. Brubaker Funeral Home, Inc. of Catasauqua is entrusted with the arrangements.