Dennis Michael Danko

Dennis Michael Danko, 78, of Alburtis, passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as an artist, photographer, educator, musician, mentor, and beloved member of his family.

Dennis was born in Central City, PA to the late Michael Danko and the late Suzanna (Baluha) Danko-Stefanoski. He was preceded in death by his brother, Theodore Danko and great nephew, Chad Danko.

For Dennis, art was far more than a profession, it was a lifelong passion and a way of seeing the world. Having achieved a Masters in Art Education from Kutztown University, Dennis was a gifted fine-art photographer devoting much of his life to creating and encouraging others to discover their own creativity. His photography earned numerous awards and distinctions, including recognition in Pennsylvania's Art of the State exhibitions. His work was exhibited widely, including two solo exhibitions at the Allentown Art Museum ("Face Value") and a solo exhibition at Franklin & Marshall College, and his photographs became part of collections including those of Lehigh and Kutztown Universities.

Dennis shared that passion with generations of young artists through a long career in education. He served as Art Department Chairman at Louis E. Dieruff High School in Allentown and also worked as an art educator and adjunct professor at Northampton Community college and Outstanding Achievement Cooperating/Mentor at Kutztown University. Perhaps one of his greatest contributions to the arts was his work with the East Central Pennsylvania Scholastic Art Awards. As Affiliate Director for over two decades, the program gave countless young artists throughout the Berks, Lehigh, Northampton, and Carbon counties a chance for their art to be seen, supported, and encouraged which led to potential scholarships for these students.

His recognition in the arts community honored him throughout his career. Dennis received an Arts Ovation Award from the Allentown Arts Commission as well as a congressional citation from Charlie Dent in 2002. In 2018 he was honored by the Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission as a Tribute to the Arts recipient. Even after his years leading the Scholastic program, his support of young artists continued, with the regional Scholastic Awards recognizing his contributions to student awards. He successfully offered his Scholastic roles to be continued by the art department/students at Kutztown University.

Dennis's creativity was not limited to what could be captured through a camera lens. He was also an accomplished bass guitarist with a deep love of music. With influences from Jaco Pastorius and Stanley Clarke his music had vision even when he had trouble reading music himself. His older brother, Ted, was the first to encourage and purchase Dennis' first bass guitar. Dennis was the original bass player for the band Steppin' Out!, remembered for playing to packed audiences at Bethlehem's Godfrey Daniels. Earlier in his musical life, Dennis even had the unforgettable experience of opening for The Beach Boys as they were beginning their rise to fame. Other notable bands to mention are Dusty Rose, Vick and the Catalinas, solo guitarist Debbie Gaber, pianist Dave Lendhart, violinist Mark Golin and guitarist Mike Krusikus, with special shout out to college friend, Rick Vito whom made his own sound heard on the BIG stage.

Whether he had a camera in his hands, a bass guitar strapped over his shoulder, or was helping a young artist recognize something special in their own work, Dennis lived a life centered around creativity. His influence can be found not only in the photographs and artwork he leaves behind, but in the many students, artists, musicians, and friends whose lives were made richer by knowing him.

Dennis is survived by; his grandchildren, Justin Truckly and Irelynn Truckly; his niece, Denise Danko-Daniels (Vince Daniels); and his great-nieces, Rachael Daniels, Michele Daniels, and Leigh Daniels.

His family hopes that Dennis will be remembered in much the same way he approached life: by noticing the beauty around us, encouraging creativity in others, listening to the music, and never losing the desire to create something meaningful.

We welcome friends and family to Dennis' "Art Closing" memorial and celebration where storytelling, open mic atmosphere (bring instruments), and art viewing will be front and center at Godfrey Daniels Live Music Listening Room, Bethlehem, Pa., Friday October 16th from 5pm-8pm.

At this time, Dennis' family is working to create an awards/scholarship in his name for talented art/music students entering Kutztown University. If interested in donation and/or receiving information about this awards/scholarship, please reach out to Denise Danko-Daniels @ danielsdenise66@gmail.com Thank you.