Dakota Woodrum

With a smile that could melt a heart of steel, Dakota Jacob Woodrum brought light and joy to those around him. He was a happy little boy who found pleasure in the simplest things in life, teaching others to do the same.

Born on May 15, 1998, Dakota’s arrival brought some unique situations to his family, both joyous and challenging. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, he spent nearly all of his first two months of life in Bronson Hospital until the happy day when he was strong enough to come home to his mamma, Trish, and his big brother C.J. Their two-bedroom apartment on Burdick Street was bursting with four generations of family members. Dakota required around the clock care, which his mother, his grandmother Barb, and several dedicated and talented nurses from the Visiting Nurses Association and the Maxam Nursing Service provided. The family later grew with the arrival of Dakota’s little sister, Jordan.

At the age of one he began attending the JFK School. While at school he worked with his hands and was able to create with a variety of media. Since his family did not have a car, sometimes transportation to school was not available. That didn’t stop his mom and grandma, though. His experience at JFK was so important to them that they would hoist him up and carry him the mile and a half to school. He looked forward to attending the Croyden School.

On Dakota’s fifth birthday, he and the rest of the family received a wonderful gift. They all moved to a new home in Oshtemo Township on the west side of Kalamazoo. The home was constructed to accommodate special needs. Now Dakota was able to look out of the window and see the world in a way he never had before. Watching the birds and squirrels was a new experience for him.

Dakota learned early on how to engage his caretakers with his brilliant smile. Framed by his beautiful blonde curls, his facial expressions spoke volumes. Dakota had a large collection of stuffed animals. A bear named “Norton” was among his favorites. He responded well to toys that made sounds and that moved. Dakota was a good listener and loved having books read to him. He also liked music, favoring country tunes and the peaceful sounds of nature.

Dakota is survived by his mother, Patricia Woodrum; one brother, C.J. Woodrum; one sister, Jordan Woodrum; grandmother, Barbara Woodrum; great-grandmother, Catherine Harmon, all of Kalamazoo; his grandfather, Danny (Debra) Woodrum, Sr. of Delta Township; an uncle, Danny Woodrum, Jr.; an aunt, Dawn (Bruce) Clark; and several great-uncles, great-aunts, and cousins.

Dakota passed away on Sunday, July 25, 2004. His family was given six cherished years with him.

Friends will be received on Thursday, July 29, from 12 - 2 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, Stadium Drive, west of US-131 (375-2900). A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday at the funeral home. Interment will be in Genessee Prairie Cemetery, Oshtemo. To read Dakota’s life story, share a memory, send flowers, or make a memorial contribution to the JFK Center, please visit his personal memory page at www.lifestorynet.com.

Dakota taught those closest to him how to find joy in things usually taken for granted. The memory of his beautiful smile is a testament to the fact that every moment of every life is precious.