I met Dakota around 2012 while he was at WSU. Him and Kayla were in our church's small group for about a year. The first time they came over, we had just met them at church. Dakota brought flowers to our house and I found he had one of the most giving hearts I'd met. We had some great talks and memories together. We had one particularly memorable time together skiing at mt spokane. After a great day skiing together, I got the stomach bug on the way home and it came on quick! I can still hear him laughing while I frantically pulled the car over and lost my lunch in front of a mechanic shop and a bunch of people in Spokane. He drove the rest of the way and was super gracious. Vet school and other things meant our time together was limited as the years passed. But I loved every minute with him and I'm grieving knowing he's gone too soon. Praying for all his loved ones, family and especially his wife. Rest in peace Dakota. Miss you bud.
David

I met Dakota when I was 18 years old as a large animal technician in Prescott Arizona. Dakota was the life of the clinic interning with us. And for 3 years I got to work with him whenever he came back to visit and I couldn’t have been happier. I ended up keeping in touch with Dakota, and almost 10 years later I’m proud to say he was someone who meant so much to me, more than he’ll ever know. I wish I remembered how he even ended up working at my vet clinic, but I’m so thankful that he did. Dakota constantly had a smile on his face and was laughing, he made the long days go by quick, and the good days even better. His smile and laugh and goofyness radiated whenever he was around. I’m so proud of all he did and accomplished after we met. I didn’t know Dakota growing up or in our younger years, but the man I knew for the last 10 was one hell of a veterinarian and friend to me. Reality hasn’t hit me that he’s gone and I’ll never hear from him again. I’m so thankful to have had the time with Dakota that I was given. I will cherish every memory, and I will never forget him. Until I see you again, xoxo Summer

we were shocked and saddened hearing the terrible news of the loss of such a kind and caring person. We only knew him for the short time he worked in Klamath Falls, but his humor and kindness towards our animals always left a wonderful memory. Our deepest sympathy to his wife Kelsey and their family....it is a heartbreaking loss of a good person who was taken much too soon.

So today my best friend and brother would have been 32 years young but the lord had other plans for a wonderful soul. I have been trying to come up with the words that could be a touch of what Dakota was and I have only a few words that could come close to what an amazing person he truly was. He was so much heart that it was blinding he was kind and selfless we all were so blessed to have such an amazing light in our lives. He made life so enjoyable with so much fun and inspiration to be so much more than could be imagined he left us with so much, but still leaves a sting we will forever be lost with out his light but i cant wait till the day we reunite and have that blessing again. Happy birthday brother I love you till we meet again I will hold you in my heart can't wait. 

I have been contemplating what I would say after I found out 2 days ago about the tragic loss of Dakota. I distinctly remember Dakota in elementary school and I remember our conversations as we shared a love of sports . He had a calm and happy demeanor, and a wonderful smile that was so inviting to everyone with which he came in contact. He had many qualities but the ones I can picture to this day is his sense of humor, his kindness and a love of others. I followed him through middle school, high school and WNMU where his personality and athletic prowess made him stand out among others. When Silver won the state football championship the football team came to Jose Barrios Elementary for some accolades. It was decided to hold a contest to see who was better looking, Dakota or me? The football team, teachers and students got to vote. Of course, everyone voted for Dakota. He loved the moment! You could tell from his magnificent smile and laughter . He was loved by many and I will forever remember Dakota. He was SPECIAL!

I knew Dakota back when we were in high school through some friends. He was always the sweetest most caring guy! He had a big heart and could light up a room with his personality! My condolences to his family and friends. He was a great guy!

May the faith of Dakota’s dear family and friends carry them through this difficult time.
I did not know Dakota and have only known his mom for a short time but I feel that he was a true hero to everyone.
Someday, somehow, the memories will find a way to fill your hearts.
Wishing you peace.
Love,
Joan

We are greatly saddened by the loss of Dakota, a special young man and an exceptional veterinarian. He saved our mare's life when no one else could. He showed us much compassion during a rough time. We will be forever grateful. We pray for Dakota's family and friends. There is no doubt; "God now has Dakota embarking on a new and beautiful journey!" Don & April Depuy

Bruce and I are so sorry to hear of the loss of your son, Dakota. Our thoughts are with you and your family as we pray that God will strengthen and hold all in His arms. Dakota was a good man and I remember him assisting me when he was worked at the Arenas Valley Animal Clinic. Rest In Peace, Dakota.

Such a tragedy. Dakota was my student at WSU. He's not someone you forget. He had a spirit and a smile that could light up a room. I am confident he was an excellent veterinarian. He was always an excellent human being. All of us at WSU College of Veterinary Medicine send love and sympathy.

Greg and I are so sorry to hear of the loss of Dakota. Our thoughts are with you as we pray that God will strengthen and hold you in His arms. Rest In Peace, Dakota.

Coach Woodard my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family...if and when you see this message please call me or email me...915-503-9349 an old friend/student/player from WNMU...

There are no words to describe what a great loss Dakota is to his family, friends and his wife. He will be greatly missed and remembered forever. Rest in Peace Dakota.

Hard to choose the correct word to describe someone as great as Dakota. Awesome. Friendly. Cool. Polite. Smart. Funny. Athletic. Noble. The list goes on. What I can tell you is that my life is enriched beyond belief because I had a chance to know him. Enjoyed watching you play football my friend. I will think of you often. R.I.P. Dakota I'll see you again.

Dakota was a science student of mine at SHS. He was such a nice, polite person, an excellent athlete and everyone liked him. I always knew he would do well in life. So sorry to learn of his passing. God be with the family.

I don't think anyone can put into words that can describe the amazing person Dakota was. I had the privilege of meeting Dakota while playing football at WNMU with him. He was the most caring person who would do anything for anyone expecting nothing in return. His heart was so big that he had enough love to share with everyone. Dakota was the guy that could make anyone smile with out even trying. His laugh was contagious and rowdy all at the same time! Ill never forget all the memories we shared, from turkey hunting on our days off from football on monday afternoons, cruising around the mountains just to get away from life, or hauling and unloading truckloads of hay for the vet clinic every year. My heart hurts for his family, and friends. Im gonna miss you bud, and ill see you again! Rest easy brother!

Warning: Silly memories ahead

Dakota's Momma and I are friends and she approved the telling of these memories :-)

I remember that Dakota always had a smile on his face and could always make me laugh. Best sense of humor!! Always respectful. Great manners. He was a bright light in this world! He worked hard for what he wanted and achieved so many of his dreams at a young age. For some reason, he would always greet me by licking my face. Not a little lick either but a big sloppy one covering the entire side of my face! I think he may have been part puppy! Oh, Dakota, you will be so missed. One evening he and his Momma were spending the night, as they were flying out of my town the next day. It was wintertime and we were all in the hot tub. It was very cold and the attached pool had to have been near freezing. I told Dakota I'd pay him 100.00 if he'd jump in the pool and swim to the other side. I forgot who I was dealing with.. he jumped right in and then collected his 100.00! So Dakota! Our little prankster.. he loved to make people laugh with his pranks. He was so loved by so many. Dakota we will miss you!! I can hear the angels laughing.

  We were lucky to have met Dakota at Snip's. We fostered Kittens, and Dakota gave me the med's I needed for them. I really like our talks about Horses, cows, I was looking forward to having him out to do the Horses. Although we only knew him a short time, he was an awesome Vet and a Great Young Man. We will miss you Dakota.

Our family met Dakota and his family his senior year in high school. He was the most vibrant entertaining, loving young man. So filled with fun, mischief, goodness, and loved. My fondest memories are of him and my daughter dancing around the living room to country music. It was a joyous sight to see. They went to a rodeo dance in Cliff once and literally wore holes in the soles of their boots. Squirrel hunting, horseback riding, football, and baseball were top of the order daily, along with family and faith. He would nurse any animal that needed it, even back then. Saved Tucker (dachshund) from an accidental poisoning, he still with me 13 years later. You will be greatly missed. My sincerest condolences and sympathies to all those in his life. He was so loved.

I have been so happy since finding Dakota as my vet and I had been so content thinking you'd be my mules and puppers vet for the rest of our lives. I have had two vets in my life which I totally trusted my animals lives with, and I lost you both way too young. You were a great vet, and person, Dakota and I can't imagine how much more so you would have become had you had the chance with more years.  I feel privileged to have been able to get to know you and will forever miss you.  Such a huge loss to our community as well.  My heart is broken for Kelsey... {{{{HUGS}}}}} to you, dear sweet lady.  Love to you both, Rhonda

Dr Woodard was a very good Vet.. He treated my fur babies more than once..I was so glad we had a local vet to treat our babies.. I so sorry for the loss of this nice young man..May the Lord Bless him and his family.. Rest in Peace Dakota,..

Kota...…..Kota...…..Kota……...ut

I do recall Dakota and I trying to draw this picture for Kelsey, when they were at Diamond J Ranch one day, floating my 2 horse's teeth. We had more laughs. I will never forget rolling around with him on my back lawn—us both trying to hold one of my mini donkeys, to get her teeth done. She was like a greased pig—small, and yet we had so much trouble keeping her up, not rolling on us, etc. We laughed until we about peed ourselves. Dakota was laughing so hard he could hold his arms still to start grinding down those molars. I said I was glad no one was filming it, 'cause we would never live down being out-wrestled by a little donkey, but now—I wish someone had it on video, 'because that's the way I want to remember Dakota. I also loved his sarcasm and dry wit.
It is still so hard to accept that he is gone; I keep thinking I will wake up from this bad dream. It's a surreal feeling, but I had been missing him the last couple weeks, because I hadn't seen him in awhile. Was getting ready to call him to float teeth. I gave his number to someone in Tractor Supply just days before his tragic accident, and had just written his phone numbers and email, etc, in a brand new address/telephone book—first entry, because he was so valued in his expertise as a vet, and so great to help in emergencies, and all he did for the community. I enjoyed his personality immensely. I almost feel like I have lost one of my own sons.
Kelsey, the one thing I know for sure, was how much he loved and respected you. You were his dream partner in this world. Our whole county will feel his loss; he was a true servant, and always went the extra mile to help his clients, who quickly felt the bond of friendship. He cared so much. I will be eager to see Dakota in God's Kingdom.

My first "contact" with Dakota was when he was about two years old. I was sitting on the floor in the Woodard's home in Carlsbad, NM when Scott brought him in. As soon as Scott introduced us, Dakota immediately demonstrated that he would one day be a star football player. He gave me a rather significant "head butt"--one that would become one of the hallmark stories among my family and the Woodard family for all the years to follow. Even as a former high school football player in my own right, I don't recall ever getting hit quite so fast and with such force! A great memory to be sure. Painful though it might have been, Dakota, I could wish now that you still had one in store for me yet. We miss you! 

I did not know Dakota well, only meeting him a few times. I had the pleasure of knowing his Mom very well. Cathy Satoko’s heart and mine ache for you. We wish there was something we could do to heal your pain and that of your family. Our prayers are with you.

I dont even know where to begin. I have known Dakota as long as I can remember, he was basically the little brother I always wanted. There was never a time that we were with him that we were not smiling and laughing. It was always the best time when Dakota was around. There was lots of dancing and lots of jokes. He was amazing with my kiddos and they loved him. He was such a light in this world. I could go on and on with stories about him. I will leave it with this, he is one of the great ones and heaven gained the most amazing soul. My heart is broken with this loss. I am sending the biggest prayers out to his family and to his amazing and strong wife.

Dakoda was always the first one to say hello, make a joke or lend a hand. First year of vet school was hard & we had a small group of us who really stuck together through it all. There’s not a Casey Donahew song that doesn’t remind me of him. He always made fun of me for having my pet cow Baby Phyllis, when secretly I know he loved her as much as I do. He came out once to help me with a hurt pony when Joey was out of town during vet school and always tried to help. His smile was contagious & he would always put an arm around me on the hard days. My deepest condolences to Kelsey & Dakoda’s family. He will be deeply missed

Dakota was a smart, funny full of energy little boy. I did have the privilege of knowing him as an adult. He had something very special. I am so very sorry for his wonderful mother, wife sister and family. My love and prayers are with you. Shirley  
John 14: 1-4

I have known Dakota since my middle school days, when I became friends with his sister Joscyln. Dakota was such a happy kid, always had this smile of his that was too cute for a kid. As little brothers were, he’d come around from time to time and as we got older he only got cooler! Dakota and my brother Ivan went to high school together and became friends, I got to watch them each play football and baseball together! Dakota was a rockstar, a natural born athlete, a kind hearted person, worked hard in school and clearly in life. My prayers and hugs go out to you, Kelsey! Keep your faith and know he is always with you!!

Cathy and Scott... you will forever hold a special place in my heart, you raised a wonderful and accomplished young man.

Joscyln, you too will always hold a special place in my heart, stay strong my friend and thank you for allowing us to share in this time grief. Continued prayers, seeking the light and hugs to comfort you!!!

Dakota was like a father to me he has given given me soo much advice throughout the year 2019 and I don't remember having a bad memory with him. He was such a good man and did so much for me. He will forever be in my heart and so many others. I miss you so much Dakota. 

My prayers and condolences go out to Dakota’s wife and family! Dakota was always someone I looked up to growing up...he had no fear! I first met “Rooster” in little league baseball growing up. He had this way of always making me want to do better or work harder; he was a natural born leader. We spent a lot time time together playing baseball and football in high school feeling like the kings of the school until we would get back from an out of town game and his big blue truck was stolen from the school parking lot (seemed like it happened a lot).  If we weren't at practice rooster and I were usually out hunting something together. We played football together at WNMU and knew we would end up having the time of our lives. We spent the majority of our time together playing football and pursuing the same undergrad. We had some fun and crazy times together at Western...then we had to grow up. We lost contact for a while but the past couple years we would check in and see how each other was doing. Our last conversation we had we were talking about getting together to go deer hunting. Most of my high school and college memories have rooster in there and I will always be thankful I had him as a friend. Im going to miss you rooster #22!! Ill see you again someday!

Dakota.  What can I say. He Had the same love as animals as me. He worked endless hours to help animals. He worked endless hours on his and Kelsey’s ranch. He tried to please everyone.  Didn’t matter if it was day or midnight.  He was the only vet that did not worry about profit over helping an animal In need.  Only one who knew that people in Siskiyou county could not pay 300 for a spay and offered low cost vet care. It was about the animals not the profit.  He was a very caring vet and person.  He was my friend no matter if it was good or bad times.  I will miss him. 

I can not put in to words what Dakota meant to me and my family especially to me he was always a light in the darkest of times his love was never ending with out judgment and unwavering he gave all with out asking for anything in return he was always the best of all of us and all though his time was short he changed the life of everyone he ever met. I love you with all my heart you will always be with me forever till me meet again.

I knew Dakota from his vet school days at WSU where he and I quickly became good friends. We shared a lot of fun memories from both missing the same buck the same morning, caring for a ferrier mishap on a mare at my parents, to road tripping for the Omak stampede and a elk hunt that didn't go as planned... He was always fun to be around and I wished that is stated in closer contact these last few years. Lots of fond memories.

I'll start by saying that I'm really, really sorry for Dakota's wife and family during what has to be unimaginably difficult. I had the pleasure of playing football with Dakota in high school at SHS and college at WNMU, and this man ran the ball with a tenacity that was unmatched at both levels. I always told him that our high school defense was so good because we faced the best RB in NM every day in practice. From a character standpoint, I always knew Dakota to stay true to his faith. When others were out partying and being destructive, he'd either advise against it or would be home resting up for the next practice or game. The world lost a damn good human being and this one hurts. To the guy with the nastiest stiff arms I've ever seen, Rest in Peace Rooster.

I played football with Dakota at WNMU. He had such a fire in him. He was a great young man and fun to be around. Very sorry to hear he is no longer with us. I heard from one of our other teammates so know he is not forgotten and made an impact on people that you may never have thought of. Prayers to the family, try and find peace in the fact that god needed him more than we did and he has a plan that we may not understand.

Dakota was amazing young man and an awesome vet and was more than willing to go above and beyond to help. Thank you for being such a warm person and you will be missed by so many people and animals ..Rest peacefully .

So thankful you were in Kelsey's life, and filled it with such love and joy. You will be missed, but never forgotten.

I am so sad to hear of Dakota’s passing. He was a very kind happy person. I haven’t seen him since high school. His laugh was contagious. To his family I hope that your memories of Dakota bring you comfort in this difficult time. Definitely gone too soon.
Tristan Hoover Britton

The faculty of Silver High School is fondly remembering Dakota today, and sharing our numerous "Dakota" stories. He was a hardworking and kind young man. He will be missed.

Rest with the angels, Dakota. I wish I had brought you more chocolate chip cookies! I will miss you as my friend and vet.