Nicholas Dakota DeAlba

1995 - 2024

Nicholas Dakota DeAlba

November 30, 1995 - October 26, 2024

Boise, Idaho - Nicholas Dakota DeAlba died unexpectedly on October 26, 2024 in Seattle, lovingly surrounded by his family.

Nick was born in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 30, 1995. In 1998, the family moved to Boise, Idaho. Enjoying his childhood in East Boise, he played baseball at Baggley Park, pick-up basketball in the neighborhood, maximized the rope swing and bridge jumping at the river, vibing in the hotrod to Afroman, and 'Halloween hijinx' with his best friend Chad. Was a member of 'Big Man Wrestling' where he practiced his moves on his petite Cousin 'Killer' Anna. She was the brains of their outfit while he was the brawn.

He called himself a "lonely child" until his sister Alexis was born and later KK (Kaitlin). He loved leading them through "brother work-outs." At age 14, he started a business with Grandma CP, Nick's Knits, selling beautifully knitted hats at street fairs. He spent many hours with his father restoring Jeeps, four wheelers and boats. One summer they volunteered with Mission Builders constructing a new cabin at Luther Heights Bible Camp.

Nick had many pets growing up (Elvis Turtle, Billy the Lizard) but especially loved his white German Shepherd dogs: Copper and Shelby.

He graduated from Boise High School in 2014. A "Brave to the Grave", he was a Captain and 4-year varsity letter winner in football and LAX, dabbled in basketball, and participated on the track team as a thrower. He loved all things that BHS offered including the diverse community spirit and toga dances. Nick spent his high school summers working at Ivywild pool as a lifeguard/instructor.

He enrolled in Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, having been awarded a football scholarship. After his freshman year, he transferred to Eastern Oregon University in La Grande. As a walk-on there, he quickly earned a position on the football team. He interned at La Grande School District by coaching an elementary school girls' basketball team and volunteering as a high school football coach. While at EOU, he majored in pumping iron-- hitting his goal of bench pressing 500 pounds. Very proudly, he earned his bachelor's degree in 2021, with several semesters on the Dean's list.

Nick found a career in the U. S. Coast Guard in 2019 that fulfilled his desire for service to others, working in a team, and achieving mission and goals focused on environmental concerns. He was stationed at Sector Puget Sound in Seattle for the majority of his career. Nick proudly served on the Aids to Navigation Team and later as a Marine Science Technician. He received the Armed Service and Humanitarian Service Medal, Good Conduct Award, and Coast Guard Achievement Medal, and the Unit Commendation Medal. Nick was very honored to be a member of the US Coast Guard National Rugby Team in 2023.

Nick married Kelly Jo Hudson of La Grande, OR in 2019 and together they had Karsyn. Fatherhood brought true meaning into his life. Nick and Karsyn were two peas in a pod with the same personalities, sense of humor, and love of the water. Later, Kallie joined the trio and added her cheerful nature, sweet cuddles, and artsy flair. Their evenings were spent playing in the park, swimming the Y's lazy river, and rough housing.

Nick is survived by his mother Sarah, sisters Alexis and KK (Kaitlin) DeAlba, his daughters, Karsyn and Kallie, and their mother, Kelly. Grandfather, Lothar, with whom he shared a special gift of gab, Grandmother Carolyne, Uncle Arne, and Cousin Anna Pietz. In addition, extended family throughout Southern Idaho and Eastern Oregon.

Nick was a very kind, open-hearted person who had deep empathy for others. He loved to connect with people and employed humor and wit at any opportunity. With a life-long involvement with YMCA, where he lifted weights and swam daily, please consider donating where funds help youth and encourage acceptance.

Please practice kindness, personal well-being, and concern for others.

Go Buckeyes!

Burial will be at sea by the Coast Guard in Puget Sound.