Trending
Dakota Brian Hagedorn, 22, born August 3, 2004, passed away at his home in Morgantown, West Virginia, on October 4, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and memories that will be treasured forever.
Dakota lived everything he did at 1,000 percent. From the age of eight through 18, he was a dedicated and accomplished wrestler, ultimately reaching All-America status in high school. During his travel days, his dad became his favorite warm-up partner by default. But as Dakota grew bigger and stronger, one particularly memorable warm-up eventually sent Dad flying right out of his flip-flops – a family story that perfectly captured Dakota's competitive spirit and became a memory they would always cherish.
Dakota had a deep interest in AI, coding, and modding gaming systems and loved spending time playing video games. Some of his favorite memories were the late nights spent playing video games with his brother, Noah. They would spend hours playing games and talking. In their most recent conversations, the two shared dreams of one day living together once they were both out of school, and those conversations were among the moments Dakota treasured most, as he loved his little brother like no other.
Dakota was also a true foodie; he loved really good food and could always find the most expensive items on the menu without even trying. He wasn't afraid to try new things; sushi was one of his favorites, and he could cook the best steak! But if you asked him, he would always pick his momma's cooking. He couldn't wait to talk about what was for dinner when he was home. Those meals were more than just food; they reflected the love they shared and the comfort of being home together.
He loved his dogs, especially Sam, who was waiting for him at Heaven's gates. And here at home, Delilah loved having Dakota back after his time living in Florida. And it didn't take Piper, the new kitten, to long to warm up to Dakota as he was sleeping in his bed every night after just a couple of days of being home ... And Koda said he didn't think he was a cat person.
When Dakota moved to Florida, his love of skateboarding took off, and he was never content to simply ride. He built his own skateboards and was always learning new tricks, techniques, and styles. That passion eventually grew into a love of skate shoes, making him quite the sneakerhead. So, if you plan to join us in celebrating Koda's life, leave the dress shoes behind and put on your Nike Dunks or favorite footwear instead.
Dakota had a contagious laugh and a remarkable gift for impersonations that could make everyone around him laugh. He had a way of making people smile and creating memories that will be carried with his family and friends for years to come.
Dakota grew up going to church and was dedicated to the Lord as a baby; he was baptized at Calvary Chapel Morgantown, and then while living in Florida, he grew deeply in his relationship with Jesus Christ. His faith became an important part of his life; he found comfort and hope in his relationship with Jesus, and his faith became something he carried with him wherever he went.
Dakota's life was far too short, but the love he gave and the memories he created will last forever. For those who loved Dakota, there is comfort in knowing that this goodbye does not have to be forever. Koda's greatest hope was found in Jesus, and his family holds tightly to the promise that we can see him again - not simply because we wish it to be true, but because of the saving grace of Jesus Christ. We pray that Koda's life and his faith will encourage others to seek Christ, place their trust in Him, and know the hope of being reunited with him one day.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."
John 3:16
Dakota is survived by his parents, Amy and Luke Hagedorn, and his brother, Noah; grandparents Pam and Tim Hagedorn and Donna and Larry Williford; great-grandparents Dolly Hoey and Patty and Ken Flowers; maternal aunt Whitney (Toni) Oliverio and cousins Cayton and Olivia; paternal uncle and aunt Timmy (Marea) Hagedorn and cousins Kayden and Greyson; Adrienne (Dave) Sims and cousin, Gracie; and numerous great-aunts, great-uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Rev. Paul Cayton, and great-grandparents Paul and Alicia Cayton, Alfred Hoey, and Bill and Rachel Hagedorn.
Family and friends may gather at Calvary Chapel Morgantown on Sunday, October 11, from 4-7 pm and Monday, October 12, from 10- 11 a.m., until the 11 am hour of service with Pastor Shawn Frasher officiating. Following the service, Dakota will be laid to rest in East Oak Grove Cemetery. Flowers are welcome, but please also consider donations to the Arise program at Calvary Chapel Morgantown,493 Tyrone Rd. Morgantown, WV 26508, in Dakota's name.
Until we meet again, Dakota. You were loved more than words can say, and you will be missed every single day.
Condolences online at www.dering-henson.com