Dakota “Kota” Allen Poling of Hopkins died Friday, Feb. 13. He was only 20 years old and had been diagnosed with Budd-Chiari Syndrome (blood clots on his liver).
Born on Aug. 8, 2005, in Grand Rapids, Kota was the favorite – and only – son of Melissa Huizinga and Brian Poling. He was also the little brother of older sisters, Emily and Brianna Poling.
Kota was known by those who loved him for his quick-witted replies, sarcastic humor, and bullheaded stubbornness. Despite never wanting to be the center of attention, he always had everyone in the room laughing.
Kota graduated from Hopkins High School in 2024. During and after high school, he worked for Puschel Farms, where he discovered his passion for dairy farming. He often referred to the cows on the farm as “his girls.”
Kota also found joy in Packers football, dirt biking, fishing, and time spent with his friends. Kota’s big heart left a lasting imprint on everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him.
Kota was preceded in death by his great-uncle, David Hawley.
He is survived by his parents, Melissa Huizinga and Brian (Beckey) Poling; sisters, Emily and Brianna Poling; as well as his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, stepsiblings, and many close friends.
A celebration of Kota’s life will be held Sunday, March 1, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the F.O.P. Hall located at 1753 Alpine Ave NW, Grand Rapids.
