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"Dakota" Fred Hurt
1943 - 2023
"Dakota" Fred Hurt
1943 - 2023
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1943
DIED
2023
"Dakota" Fred Hurt Obituary
"Dakota" Fred Hurt was a gold prospector who starred on the Discovery Channel reality series "Gold Rush" and several of its spinoffs.
We invite you to share condolences for "Dakota" Fred Hurtin our Guest Book.
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(Photo: Dakota Fred via Facebook)
106 Entries
Daniel Hardy
July 3, 2025
So sorry to hear of the passing of Fred Durst. I greatly enjoyed his hard work, determination and passion for gold prospecting. He was a great asset to the channel and will be sorely missed by everyone!! Rest in peace my friend!!
Jacco
March 25, 2025
Together with Dustin I followed you both every week. You are both my heroes. And many thanks, you helped me also with a few other programs through my burn out.
I hope you Dustin stay healthy and this message will help you through difficult times. Best regards from the Netherlands. And as Fred should say: Dustinnnnn!!!!!
Ezra Maldonado.
March 24, 2025
I´m I bit late catching up on the tv series. May God bless him. Was such a great carácter I wish I will have his energy and love for life and passion for what we do !!
Jeremy Peterson
July 17, 2024
I knew his mentality. Even know I never got to meet him just what I've watched on Gold Rush everyday for the past seasons I watch replays over and over again about him and the gloryhole. I wish him and Dustin where they got a great big pot of gold at the bottom of that thing didn't work out that way. I honestly think that Dustin should continue to mine because that's what his father would want. My heart goes out to Dustin today you lost a great warrior and the amazing father keep red up keep plugging away great things you're going to happen very soon. It's funny my wife is always saying why do you watch this stupid stuff well the stupid stuff is what I like I hope you can get over your loss it is a tremendous loss I lost my mother 2 months ago and it sucked. But you were a lot closer to your dad then I was in my mother so it probably makes it a lot tougher. Hang in there Dustin you'll get through this been watching your show for a long time help one day I can shake your hand because you are an amazing person. Take care of yourself. I'll pray for you everyday
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Cindy Chase
June 26, 2024
RIP FRED....I will always remember his laugh, and the smile that came with it! Very lucky to have come across the gold rush white water and the great group of guys chasing a dream. Fred taught me to live life until you can't. Age is a number. Condolences to Dustin and family and friends . You'll be missed.
Jacco van Ettekoven
June 26, 2024
Thanks for all the interesting adventures. When I was home without a job I looked all the seasons. Even now. It helped me the boring times. I became Special Enforcement Officer since 2013. Now I retired. Rip Fred and also thanks to Dustin. The interaction between father and son made me laugh. Take care Dustin. Best regards, Jacco from Holland.
Roryck Peterson
June 11, 2024
RIP to the gold rush legend Fred hurt. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends. The show will never be the same without you. You will be missed Fred.
R.Mjor
June 7, 2024
I´m sorry to hear that Dakota Fred passed on. I only know of him from being on TV,but my sympathies go out to his family and friends.
Gil Bastien
June 5, 2024
So sorry to recently hear of Fred's passing. I have been a Gold Rush fan from the very beginning, starring the Hoffman's. Always admired and looked forward to seeong Fred on the show. He was a true source of knowledge to everyone including me. Rest in Heavenly Peace, Fred. You will be truly missed.
Garrett Stover
May 17, 2024
To all of Dakota Fred's family and friends I'm truly sorry for your loss. Fred was a remarkable man with unbelievable love and drive to do the things he loved in life. I feel privileged to have been able to be a part of so many of his experiences through Gold Rush and Gold Rush White Water. I can't even imagine how I would feel if I knew him the way his friends and family do. Fred was young at heart and with an old soul comparable to the pioneers of the westward expansion as well as the California and Alaskan Gold Rush. He was and still is a truly inspirational man just as his son Dustin is. I feel blessed to have been able to see their relationship with one another through the shows and both of them have been a major inspiration to me and my interest in gold mining and I have learned a lot just by being able to view them on the show. There is only one Dakota Fred he surely won't be forgotten by those who knew him personally or those who watched the Gold Rush series and spin offs. God bless
Jan
May 8, 2024
RIP Fred the show won't be the same without you, sadly you'll be missed
Brigitte Vicknair
May 6, 2024
RIP Fred, You will be missed. I've been watching you on TV since the beginning with Tod Hoffman. So sad to see you go but happy it was peaceful. My condolences to your family and friends.
L. Freeman
April 10, 2024
Fred you will be dearly missed. We Loved watching you & all your gold adventures. And Your positive attitude & your contagious laugh & sense of humour.
Our condolences to every one who was fortunate enough to know & love you.
Rest in peace Fred.
Cheers to you. xo
Steven Feldman
April 6, 2024
So many memories with the wife and kids watching from the edge of our seats to see what you would find next. Much love to you and your family. You were a legend brother, and legends live forever.
William Wheelerjr
April 6, 2024
I really enjoyed Fred my family and friends sending prayers to the family
Donna Bordua
March 30, 2024
His knowledge and his laugh. I will miss him he was a great person. I enjoyed watching him in white water. God bless Fread and take good care of him.
Scott Daniel Hoffman
March 30, 2024
Fred there is not any place you could be that has more love, caring, warmth and more gold than you could ever imagine, than where you are at now. May you find peace and joy in the arms of our creator. God bless you, you will be missed.
Glenn adams
March 29, 2024
Loved to see your drive for gold. Thanks for the entertainment
Connie Scripture
March 29, 2024
Watching Fred and his son be able to bond and share an adventure together Always brought a smile to my face. The relationship wasn´t always perfect and but you knew the love was always there. He shared his knowledge when ever he could. I think by sharing his adventure and watching it through other peoples eyes as they experienced their firsts brought him great joy! I´m glad they were able to share this journey together. When he would zip line was the best! Truly a kid at heart. He will be deeply missed by all. He went out with his boots on! Not many people
At his age could say they lived their best life. Our condolences go out to the family. He will always be with you in spirit and be there for all your milestones.
Joan lasorsa
March 29, 2024
A great man, a true legend whose legacy lives on.
Terry Anders
March 29, 2024
I loved it when Fred found gold and jumped up and down with excitement. He will be missed on the TV series "White Water".
Darrell Greene
March 29, 2024
I loved his determination. Non stop go go go. He always had a fix for most problems. We will miss him. Darrell Greene
Milton geiger
March 27, 2024
Always live life to the fullest.
Rubennia Woods
March 25, 2024
One of my favorites from the franchise. Rest well, I only wish to live my life as full as yours was.
Brent Franklin
March 24, 2024
Dakota Fred was my favorite from day one when Gold Rush first aired. Dakota will be truly missed by all. The show won't be the same. R.I.P my friend.
George LaForte
March 24, 2024
Dakota Fred was such a character and made me smile and laugh many times. My favorite scenes were when he would holler as he was going across the cable to the other side.
Michael Rossetto
March 24, 2024
R I P Fred!
I´ve always enjoyed watching you on Gold Rush.
You will be sorely missed!
Derek Mitchell
March 24, 2024
Watching gold rush when he came in with Todd Hoffman, I loved how Fred was from the day one. Great man he will be missed
sylvia thomas
March 23, 2024
GOD bless you and thank you.
Pamela Franck
March 22, 2024
My deepest condolences to the Hurt Family. I am currently watching Gold Rush White Water on March 22nd where Dustin told his team. Fred was an inspiration to all.
I didn´t realize Fred had passed.
God Bless
Dustin, get the gold for your wonderful Dad!!!!
Crystal Benner
March 21, 2024
He was a good guy, a terrific father to Dustin Hurt and a wonderful gold miner on the television show Gold Rush White Water with his son Dustin!
Robert Anstess
March 21, 2024
It´s gold baby! Miss you man!
Brian Croker
March 20, 2024
RIP Fred....I loved your personality....and I'm sorry to hear you are gone. I'm watching your last interview as I write this. You were an inspiration for us " over the hill" guys. I'll bet your panning in heaven. You will be missed my friend.
Janet heath
March 19, 2024
Rest in peace Fred, sadly you'll be missed
Mark wingrove
March 18, 2024
Loved watching Fred from the beginning. He was always my favourite character. RIP buddy. You had a great life!!
Christa Bouchie
March 15, 2024
I first became a fan of gold rush then followed when they went to whitewater. I was able to meet Fred at a gold show and he was beyond kind and always smiling. He autographed a picture and a gold pan for myself and my husband who I managed to get watching the shows as well. So hardworking, dedicated, ambitious and always seeming to see the better or gold at the end of the rainbow. Fred you will always be a part of my family and days I go out gold mining. It may be a year late in posting this but life up here in the PNW has been difficult at times for us. I cried the day I heard the news and still tear up when I see the picture of him on the TV. Your life and legacy will always be remembered.
M ama K
March 15, 2024
Thank you Fred for reminding the world that a person is never too old to have an adventure.You lived your life with class and courage.Sending prayers and comfort to your loved ones.Keep on looking for those nuggets Justin.Mske Fred proud
Mike Goss
March 10, 2024
RIP Fred I will miss seeing you on Gold Rush White water you passion and knowledge will be missed. Prayers for Freds family, Dustin stay strong
Virge T.
March 10, 2024
So sorry a great man, he WAS the show. He will be missed.
James
March 10, 2024
I´m sorry to hear about Fred watching gold rush white water for years and it was like losing someone close rip fred
Angel Wilson
March 10, 2024
Loved watching Fred and son On Tv very hard working men . Dustin your father is watching and guiding you from heaven .
Anita Dingledine
March 9, 2024
So sorry to hear about Fred. I watched him for several years on gold rush, very hard working man that really loved his son Dustin. Watching the two work together remind me of watching my husband and son work on a project the love is there but they sure could get on each others nerve. Fred had a great smile. RIP Fred
Thomas Strong
March 9, 2024
To the hurt family i been watching gold rush since the beginning alway loved watching fred hurt and his son. Fred you are going to be grateful missed and god bless you the Strong family from concord New Hampshire see you heaven. We lost a good man be bless my friend.
Donald Worley
March 9, 2024
trhe first show ion gold rush and then gold rush whitewater he will be missed
Doug B.
March 9, 2024
As I look back, I am reminded of the range of emotions I experienced over the years. Fred brought a unique perspective to the Gold Rush family of shows. I even enjoyed the other Freds and hope they returns. I am also reminded that without the original show with Todd Hoffman, none of these shows may have appeared on the network. I bring this up because America and the worldwide audience, learn a lot from these people and this really Dirty job. These people make America great. Thank you Fred and Dustin. Thank you to Discovery channel for help making their dreams come true.
Doug
James G Karas
March 8, 2024
Eternal Be Your Memory Fred
Thank You For The Great Memories
Roger Sowell
March 8, 2024
I can´t believe it, he was so much fun to watch and you can tell he had a good heart.
Tim major
March 8, 2024
Deepest sympathy to the family of Fred hurt he was quite a man.
So glad him and Dustin made amends before his passing you could see his love for Dustin on the show.
Hope he guides Dustin and crew to that pot of gold.
So sorry for your loss
Rick Freeney
March 8, 2024
I´ve watched Fred from the beginning of the series. I thought he was a very soft spoken man and strong willed. He also knew his stuff when it came to solving problems. I´ve enjoyed watching him and his son Dustin, mine for gold over the years. Thank you Mr. Hurt for sharing your life with us who dare not to do what you did at your age. RIP SIR
Crystal Benner
March 8, 2024
How well Fred Hurt gold minded with his son Dustin Hurt! Also sorry for the loss of your father Dustin!
Mike MacLEOD
March 6, 2024
My deepest sympathies on the passing of dad and friend FRED HURT.
And I have an idea what the family is going through as have cancer also and it hurts so much when someone watched on gold rush from the very start.
My deepest condolences again.
Tony Pagan
March 5, 2024
Very sorry for your loss, RIP Mr. Hurt
Teckla Shaylor
March 3, 2024
I watched him on the Discovery Channel and every episode. Loved his spunk and determination. Cried at his final farewell.Blessings to Dustin and family.
Jason
March 3, 2024
So sorry to hear about Fred's passing. He was by far the best guy to ever appear on gold rush. I hope you are sitting on a giant pile of gold up in the sky to match your bigger than ever personality.
Rick Scheibler
March 3, 2024
Just wanted to add to my previous post! Just seen preview of up coming season of WHITE WATER and it looks amazing !! Fred will be right beside Dustin showing him where to find a fortune this season. Best of luck to Dustin´s and his crew ! Be safe and know that your father is looking down on you !!! Sorry for you and your families loss , Dustin !!! God Bless you all
Kim Lehman
March 2, 2024
My husband and I are very sorry for your loss. Fred was an awesome and amazing person. He lived every man's dream to prospect for gold. We loved watching him each week on gold rush, then him and Dustin in white water. He will forever be remembered and never forgotten in our hearts. Just remember He lived an astounding life. Our thoughts to the family
Steve and Kim lehman
Rick Scheibler
March 2, 2024
It´s March 2 , 2024 and I just found out the Fred had passed away. So sorry for your loss. He was a great man and I loved watching him on Gold Rush. Rest in peace Fred.
Steve Curtis
March 1, 2024
LEGEND, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES FRED, REST PEACEFULLY REST.
Gio Otero
March 1, 2024
I loved his tenacity. He did Iove his son, Dustin. I wish I could´ve met them both. RIP, Dakota Fred.
Teckla Shaylor
February 2, 2024
I loved his wit and determination.What a joy he bought to many.Life was exciting and his son Dustin.R I P
Mr & Mrs Cuevas
December 1, 2023
My husband and I was wondering why our gold rush white water family wasn't on yet and to find out that Fred had passed away absolutely broke our hearts. We absolutely loved Fred! He was an amazing, crazy, funny and straight down to earth kinda guy! We send our condolences to his family. RIP Fred and we hope you're up in heaven finding all the gold in the world. And we hope to see the rest of the White water fam back soon! From the Cuevas Family in Wisconsin! God bless you all
Carol Kerr
December 1, 2023
God bless
Cherie Jones
November 21, 2023
Dear Dustin and Family,
Though I didn't personally know Fred, I came to love, admire, and even worry about the man I somewhat got to know through TV. I'm a 66 year old gal and don't mind admitting that I cried when learning of Fred's death. His love of gold mining was palpable and I always wanted him to succeed. Fred's determination, sense of humor, and sweetness were so endearing. Dustin, I wish you much success as you continue mining as well as God's strength as you grieve the loss of a special man.
Cherie Jones
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Jamie Titorenko
October 16, 2023
Watching Fred over the last few years was inspiring and priceless . This world was a much better place with you in it Fred, but comes a time we all have to weigh in and You knew that better than most.
May your pan always be full of nuggets my friend and may the sun always shine on your claim. RIP
K M Smith
September 30, 2023
So very sorry to hear of his passing. Fred Hurt was an amazing man. He has truly experienced 5 lifetimes rolled together in just 1. Fred was kind, knowledgeable, and loving toward his family. I admired him for his ability to be forthright. May God's abundant grace and love help you navigate the grieving process. He shall be missed.
David Rogers
August 23, 2023
Fred was not my favorite at first but I came to admire his determination and skills. He´s my favorite by far on Gold Rush and I will miss seeing him. God bless.
Mikki Matsui
August 22, 2023
I loved watching Fred. He brought me joy because of his spunk, make it work tenacity, and his love for his family. The show won't be the same for me. I felt connected to him because we are both from Minot, ND. He dad said he was a good man. I felt it through the show.
A fan Michael McCauslin
August 19, 2023
I have really enjoyed watching Fred and Dustin on Gold Rush White Water. I wish I would have known him personally but I would like to offer his family and his friends my very sincerest condolences! He will be missed by many and he has touched the hearts of so many people. Good by Fred, I will miss watching you trying to get that "GLORY HOLE", your lifelong dream! Dustin your father was a very good man and one to be proud of.
Michael McCauslin a big fan of gold Rush White Water. R I P Dakota Fred!
Kevin Wilhelm
August 11, 2023
Big boot lives on in our hearts!!!!
Debi Wiggins
August 6, 2023
We felt like Fred was a part of our family. We eat he him for many years. He will be truly missed. Condolences to his family.
JF
July 24, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
David Bryson
July 24, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Fred was a true gentleman and friend.
Bonnie
July 22, 2023
I´m saddened to hear of Fred´s passing as he was my favorite. His knowledge and laughter kept me interested in the show. Dustin you´ve lost a real champion and for that I´m sorry. You´re the best. RIP Dakota Fred.
George J Joslun
July 21, 2023
I'm sure going miss your laugh. I'm sorry Dustin, and to all the family.
George J Joslun
Mr. Jr.
July 21, 2023
My condolences.
Paula Earnhart
July 20, 2023
My family and I have watched Gold Rush since it´s inception and particularly enjoyed Fred and Dustin. We are saddened to hear this news and pray for comfort and healing for their entire family and gold mining crew. He will be greatly missed by his family and fans. rest in peace Fred!
Ak
July 19, 2023
I was shocked to learn that Mr. Hurt was diagnosed with brain cancer. Now I sadden to hear he had passed. RIP Mr. Hurt . To your family I send my condolences.
Jimmy and Julie
July 17, 2023
I´m so sorry for your loss. Fred reminds me of my grandpa. Fred was a good man. my wife and I sure loved watching him on gold ruch. may god rest his soul and bless his family during this difficult time.
Carol Grantman
July 17, 2023
I will miss seeing Fred on television. I always admired his knowledge, personality and work ethic.
Leo Guzman
July 17, 2023
Dustin to you and your family my condolences to you. And God give you the strength to get through the loss of your father. May God be with you all! God bless you Fred Hurt and May you be in heaven resting in a whole new different world. Mr Big Boot thank you for entertaining us on our television.
Richard Colpitts
July 17, 2023
Dustin and Family,My Condolences.Fred you were AWESOME a lot of good memories.RIP
Mark Fraley
July 17, 2023
Prayers for his family and friends
Becky Paschall
July 17, 2023
I admired Fred Hurt so much. He was such a hard working man and always was happy. He came up with unbelievable ideas of how to do things. Nothing stumped Fred! I´m really going to miss him. What a guy!!!
Johnson Nancy
July 16, 2023
So sorry to learn of Fred's passing, use to watch him on Gold Rush. Ay he rest in peace
Brandon Martin
July 16, 2023
Dustin and family we are so sorry to hear about your loss. Your father, Fred, was such an awesome soul. The show will not be the same without him
Rebecca Joye
July 16, 2023
Thank u Fred for living, truly living to the fullest! What a legacy u leave.
Mike keeper
July 16, 2023
We will miss you dearly Fred,r.i.p. and our deepest condolences from a Canadian fan who never missed an episode of your wonderful presents,thank you so much.
Brian McCarthy
July 16, 2023
Will miss you Fred
Ursula Ferrell
July 15, 2023
What an amazing adventure, you have had in life been a fan of yours on all Gold rushes. My thoughts and prayers to your family, coworkers, fans, friends. Job well done R.I.P "Dakota " Fred Hurt .R.I.P
Capt. W.H. Lange, United Airlines, (RET.)
July 15, 2023
Fred's laughter and his personality are going to be greatly missed. RIP Fred!
Dave Peck
July 15, 2023
May you "Dakota Fred Hurt", rest in gold miners heaven finding the biggest nuggets you´ve ever panned. Thanks for all the memory´s from you and Dustin mining on Porcupine Creek, enjoyed the show very much.
Dave Peck
Grant Berry
July 15, 2023
Sir, I stand at attention for you and your family during this difficult time of the loss of you Sir. You alone set a high standard for many men. What a life and journey it must have been. Today, as I look back and think or ponder, Few could have ever had walked in your shoes Sir. You have set a high standard and example for any and many men who would want to be a Good Man. You alone Sir will be truly missed but Still admired by Many! Your Legacy will live on for ages. May God Bless You, your family and your loved ones, Grant Berry.
Gary & Shirley Mccallister
July 15, 2023
We were shocked and so sad to see Fred's passing info on show we watched every week. Prayers to his family and friends . You were so enjoyable to watch. Forever in our hearts . RIP Fred
Steve H.
July 14, 2023
Sad to hear. If you liked him or not, when it came to where the gold was or how to get it, he was always right.
RIP Fred.
Steve H. from WA. state.
Pete Dionne
July 14, 2023
Always enjoyed watching Fred and his adventures with his son. Fred's memories will live on.
William Chalupa
July 14, 2023
Great watching you over the years Fred. I truly admired your love of the hunt for gold.
Gregg Maddux
July 14, 2023
MAY THE GOLD GODS GRANT HIM A GOLDEN RETIREMENT . TRULY MISSED !
N biro
July 14, 2023
So sad to hear this I truly enjoyed watching him and all the knowledge he shared and I loved his zest for life . May he Rest In Peace Heaven truly gained a angel..
Rodney & Cheryl Dinsmore
July 14, 2023
Fred we enjoyed watching you every week you were a intelligent and amazing man. Our condolences to Dustin and the rest of the family. Rest in peace.
Rod & Cheryl D.
Ron/Eileen
July 14, 2023
To Dustin, and Fred´s Wife and Families!OUR CONDOLENCES !! Enjoyed The Gold Rush Series!! Watched many of these TV Series!! RIP, FRED!! RIP! He will be missed! From The State of Washington!
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