Elias "Eli" Dahrooge

Elias Abraham Dahrooge, 82, of Tilton NH, formerly of Worcester MA, passed away surrounded by family on Thursday October 31st, 2024, after a brief illness.

Eli was born in Worcester, the only son of Abraham “Danny” and Gladys (Gabis) Dahrooge. Raised in Worcester, he married the love of his life Joan T. Lapriore in 1961 and spent the next 63 years raising his family with faith and love in Worcester, Florida, and New Hampshire. In the early 1970s, Eli accepted a job from his father-in-law, Sam Lapriore working at Sam’s Autobody on Shrewsbury Street. Eli nurtured the company, cared for his customers, and founded a sub company S&E Adjustment before he retired in 1997 and turned the business over to his sons. 

Eli leaves behind his love, Joan; four children he adored and was so proud of, Kenneth E. Dahrooge and his wife Sharon of Charlton MA, Mark V. Dahrooge and his wife Bobbi of Leland NC, Daniel C. Dahrooge and his wife Connie of Worcester MA, Tricia J. Keville and her husband Thomas, of Canterbury NH; a sister, Josephine M. Gauthier; 12 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren with 3 more soon to be born; many nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends. His parents and two sisters, Malocke “Millie” Esper and Karen Melican, predeceased him. 

Eli was an avid golfer with a love for playing whenever and wherever he could with family and friends. He earned two holes in one and was a member of the Greenhill CC and the Worcester Police League at Heritage CC in Charlton. During his children’s youth, Eli was a hockey dad and coach, with practices early in the morning, and traveled for games all over New England and into Canada, notably earning Hockey State Championship. He also made sure he attended his grandchildren’s activities and sports games. Family was everything to Eli and he cherished all the moments he could to be with his family. A gentle man with a bright smile, huge heart, and dedicated sense of family, he guided his family through the ups and downs of life. 

 A period of calling hours will be held Thursday, November 7, from 10 am to 12 noon followed by his celebration of Christian burial Mass at 12 noon in St Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln Street. In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to St. Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln Street 01605. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family once more.