Dario "Dan" DaPra

May 19, 1935 – April 30, 2025

Dario DaPra—known to many as Dan—passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on May 19, 1935, in East Chicago, Indiana, he moved with his family to Ontario, California, in 1942. He was the son of Italian-American parents, Latino and Caterina DaPra, who instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work, family, and heritage.

Dan earned his undergraduate degree in electrical engineering from the University of Southern California in 1958 and completed his master’s degree from Cal State Fullerton in 1969. He went on to have a remarkable career in aerospace engineering, working at Convair, General Dynamics, Teledyne Ryan, and Compass. His work contributed to groundbreaking projects, including the fuselage of the first space shuttle, the Tomahawk cruise missile, stealth cruise missile projects, advanced surface effect ship designs, Spruance-class destroyers and airfoil technologies.

Dan married Jane (Maggiore) DaPra in 1955, and together they had three children: Tony, and daughters Gloria and Tina. They later divorced and Jane passed away in 2022.

In 1983, Dan married Linda (Dermer) DaPra, and they remained devoted partners until her passing in 2021. Together, they had a son, Christopher, and Dan welcomed her daughter, Jennifer, as part of his family

A lifelong lover of aviation, Dan volunteered as a docent at both the USS Midway Museum in San Diego and the Palm Springs Air Museum—two places where he could share his knowledge and passion for flight. He was happiest in the sun, especially in Palm Springs, with jazz playing in the background and a glass of wine in hand. He loved hot weather, good conversation, and seeing the world through travel.

Dan is survived by his daughter, Gloria DaPra; his son, Christopher DaPra; and his stepdaughter, Jennifer Dermer. He is also survived by his daughter, Tina DaPra. He was preceded in death by his son, Tony, and his wives, Jane and Linda. He will be remembered for his sharp mind, generous spirit, and the joy he found in the simple pleasures of music, sunshine, and family.

A private memorial will be held with close family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in his memory to the Wounded Warrior Project.

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